Indoor Air Quality – Change Those Air Filters
We all know that regularly changing the air filters in our homes is important. However, until pondering its importance I didn’t know how much difference it can really make. I also didn’t know much about the differences in air filters or that there was a rating system developed in 1987 that helps determine the efficiency of said filters. Who knew there was so much to know?
“Central heaters and air conditioners pull air through filters that capture dust, and other particulates. Air filters are one of the best lines of defense against the ailments that can arise due to dirty air.” That is according to QualityAirFilters.com but it sounds like solid thinking to me. That being said what are some way to be sure you are using the appropriate air filter? As mentioned earlier there is a rating system called MERV minimum efficiency reporting value. The ratings are 1-20, 1 being the least efficient and 20 being the most. I could go on about each rating or I could just provide you with the following table that explains it quickly and efficiently:
MERV | Min. particle size | Typical controlled contaminant [2] | Typical Application [2] |
1–4 | > 10.0 μm | Pollen, dust mites, cockroach debris, sanding dust, spray paint dust, textile fibers, carpet fibers | Residential window AC units |
5–8[3] | 10.0–3.0 μm | Mold, spores, dust mite debris, cat and dog dander, hair spray, fabric protector, dusting aids, pudding mix | Better residential, general commercial, industrial workspaces |
9–12 | 3.0–1.0 μm | Legionella, Humidifier dust, Lead dust, Milled flour, Auto emission particulates, Nebulizer droplets | Superior residential, better commercial, hospital laboratories |
13–16 | 1.0–0.3 μm | Bacteria, droplet nuclei (sneeze), cooking oil, most smoke and insecticide dust, most face powder, most paint pigments | hospital & general surgery |
17–20[4] | < 0.3 μm | Virus, carbon dust, sea salt, smoke | Electronics & pharmaceutical manufacturing cleanroom |
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minimum_efficiency_reporting_value
This information proved very valuable to me. Now, I think I have a better idea of what to look for and what will best cover the needs of my family. Trusting it will be helpful to you as well.
At Mr. B’s we would love to help you continue to improve the air you and your family breathe indoors. Call us today or visit our site to see how we can help!
Mr. B’s Air Duct Cleaning
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