When it comes to indoor air quality, knowing which filter to use with your HVAC systems matters. Your first defense against indoor pollution, HVAC air filters help keep the air in your Las Vegas, Nevada, home safe and healthy to breathe. The following information about the difference between MERV and HEPA can help you make informed decisions.
MERV Ratings
A filter’s ability to sift out contaminants is rated by its Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV). The test method used to calculate MERV ratings evaluates pollutants between 0.3 and 10 microns in size. These microscopic particulates pose the greatest health hazard because they get inhaled deep into your lungs. Based on the percentage of particles the filters capture, MERV ratings range from 1 to 16. The higher the MERV rating, the greater the filter’s efficiency.
HEPA Filters
High Energy Particulate Air (HEPA) filters fall into a category of their own. They far surpass MERV filters in the number of pollutants they can capture. Products must filter out 99.97 percent of particles sized 0.3 or larger to qualify as a HEPA filter. Standard HEPA filters are great for vacuum cleaners, but they cause too much air resistance for most HVAC systems. Fortunately, there are alternatives. As a Trane Comfort Specialist, Aloha Air Conditioning offers whole-house filtration systems that remove up to 99.98 percent of airborne particles.
Which Air Filter Is Right for You?
The primary purpose of the fiberglass filters that come with most HVAC systems is to protect the equipment from damage. With MERV ratings ranging from 4 to 11, our pleated media filters do a far better job at improving indoor air quality. For optimal pollutant control, nothing beats a whole-house filter. These innovative devices fit into the ductwork of your HVAC system to prevent contaminants from circulating through your home. Best of all, they work without impacting airflow.
At Aloha Air Conditioning, our experts are readily available to help you select a filter that will help everyone in your home breathe easier. To learn more about our indoor air quality solutions, call us at 702-623-0829 today!
