Indoor Air Quality – Air Filters?
I will be the first to admit that I’m not always as on top of changing out my air filters as I should be. Sometimes when I finally remember, the state of the old filter is quite embarrassing. Honestly one of my biggest problems is when I’m out I forget what size I actually need. It’s one of two and I generally choose the wrong one. I’ve had to return so many it’s really not even funny anymore. I have gotten slightly smarter and have entered the correct size on my phone. I learn, but sometimes very slowly. Ok, back to the real point. Does the type of air filter we choose really make a difference in our indoor air quality? Honestly, I thought the answer to this would be simple and probably not a big deal. I found out I was pretty wrong.
Here’s the deal. Of course, there are tons of different kinds out there. They do all have ratings and the ratings actually mean something. There is this one rating that is called MERV. Nope, I’d never heard of it. It actually means minimum efficiency reporting value. Most of the filters we see out there have a rating ranging from 4-12 out of 16. Hmmm seems reasonable. I thought that until I read further and found out that the manufacturers generally prefer the traditional spun fiberglass filters (MERV only 2). This seems to be because they keep out the big particles to protect the unit while allowing for maximum airflow which is important for the blower motor and heat exchanger. Ok, I’ve learned way more than I thought I would asking a filter question and there is still more. Most people can go with a filter with a MERV of 7-8. It keeps out a majority of particles and allows for enough airflow. However, there are those of us who suffer with allergies and/or have immunity issues. If thats the case we need to go for the filters with a MERV of 11 or higher. It will keep out 99 percent of the airborne particles. But, to gain the benefit the furnace fan will have to be constantly running which will take a toll on the unit.
So, as always there are things to be considered and issues to be weighed. At least now I feel like I have some real information to base my decisions on. Hope you find it helpful as well. If you’d like to get the information in more detail here is a great site to go to: http://www.familyhandyman.com/heating-cooling/furnace-repair/the-best-furnace-filters-to-buy/view-all#step1 There are others as well. This one just struck me first.
Of course, staying on top of filter changes and choosing the very best option for your home will not do everything it could if your ducts need cleaning. So, give us a call or visit the site so we can help you on your way to clean indoor air.
Mr. B’s Air Duct Cleaning
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“Specializing in Air Duct Cleaning and Air Filtration Systems”