For the consumers wanting to replace and/or upgrade the air filter in their heating and cooling system, understanding some of the terminology used to describe the efficiency and effectiveness of the filter can provide an advantage when making a decision about which filter to choose.

What filters do:

• Protect HVAC equipment from the buildup of particles which can affect their performance
• Remove hazardous particles from the air we breathe
• Help increase the efficiency of air circulation in your home

Particulates occur in three ranges of micron or micrometer sizes:

• E1- .3 to 1 microns
• E2- 1 to 3 microns
• E3- 3 to 10 microns

The MERV rating is the “minimum efficiency reporting value,” which ranges from 1-16. Filters considered to be “true” HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters range from 17-20.

So essentially, one would want to install a “true” HEPA filter right? Not necessarily. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that filters with a high MERV rating (7-13) can be nearly as effective as so-called “true” HEPA filters. Additionally, HEPA filters can actually impede airflow and may diminish efficiency.

With this in mind, consumers need to consider other factors when choosing a filter. These include the amount of use the heating/cooling system will get during a given year, the amount of particulate matter likely to be in the air, and of course, the cost.

Obviously, consumers in extremely hot or cold climates will use their systems more frequently. Many areas of the country experience a combination of hot summers and cold winters so their systems will undergo the most use. This may impact the decision on which filter is appropriate.

If a consumer lives in an area that experiences a high amount of a particular allergen that the consumer is allergic to, they may consider how much of the allergen can be potentially removed by the filter.

Finally, “true” HEPA filters can be far more expensive than those with a reasonably high MERV rating and we all understand financial impact in these economic times.

The HVAC professionals at LBA can help guide your decision and are always more than happy to answer any questions you have regarding air filters.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here to download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

LBA services greater Kansas City and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!