No, a MERV 8 filter is not a HEPA filter.
MERV-rated filters (1–16) offer versatile, cost-effective filtration for HVAC systems, with MERV 8–12 ideal for homes and MERV 13–16 for commercial spaces. HEPA filters, with 99.97% efficiency at 0.3 microns, are unmatched for medical-grade air purity but are better suited for air purifiers or specialized systems.
Air purifiers do not dry out the air—they are designed to remove pollutants, not moisture. If you experience dryness, it's likely due to environmental factors like heating systems or low outdoor humidity.
Standard HEPA filters do not effectively remove or destroy mycotoxins. While HEPA filters are excellent at trapping airborne mold spores (which produce the toxins), the actual mycotoxin molecules are chemicals that are significantly smaller than spores and often pass right through HEPA fibers.
No, HEPA filters cannot remove radon gas. Because radon is a gas, its molecules are far too small to be trapped by standard physical filtration systems.
Radon levels are generally highest during the winter and colder months. This peak occurs because closed windows tightly seal homes and the "stack effect" creates a vacuum that pulls more radon-rich soil gas indoors.
A quality air purifier containing activated carbon filters can reduce your airborne exposure to radon. We recommend a good quality air filter with a large bed of activated carbon including the Austin Heathmate HM400 Air Cleaner or Airpura Air Purifier.
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) such as formaldehyde, which can off-gas from furniture, carpets, and building materials, are too small for HEPA filters to catch.
To eliminate mold spores in the air, use a HEPA air purifier to trap them, and UV-C light to destroy their DNA. For immediate, natural relief in small spaces, you can diffuse antimicrobial essential oils like tea tree oil.
No, standard air purifiers do not physically remove moisture from the air. They merely cycle air through filters (like HEPA and carbon) to trap pollutants. However, the continuous airflow from the device's fan can increase evaporation from your skin and nasal passages, making the air feel drier.
Here are five clear signs your home air is too dry—and what helps.
Air purifiers do not actively remove moisture from the air, but their fans circulate air which increases evaporation. This airflow can dry out your nasal passages and worsen sinus irritation—especially if you sit directly in the breeze or live in an already dry climate.
You lie awake wondering if the gentle hum from your air purifier will keep you up all night. Or maybe you're concerned about running electronics while you sleep. These worries are common. The truth is that sleeping with an air purifier on is not just safe—it's one of the best things you can do for your health.
Choose MERV 11 if you have pets, allergies, or want cleaner air, as it filters finer particles like pet dander and smoke. Choose MERV 8 if you have no allergies, pets, or are on a budget, as it provides better airflow and protects your HVAC system without risking restriction.
HEPA filters are limited to particulates. There are harmful gases and fumes that may just pass through a HEPA filter. HEPA filters may cause air to become too dry. Finally, some HEPA filters may produce ozone, which is an unhealthy gas that can irritate the lungs.
The Do it Best MERV 8 Furnace Filter is designed to capture up to 75% of large airborne particles, including dust, lint, pollen, pet dander, and dust mite debris. With a MERV 8 rating, this filter ensures cleaner air flows efficiently through your home while reducing strain on HVAC systems.
Research has shown that English Ivy can eliminate up to 78% of airborne mold within 12 hours. This makes it particularly useful in humid areas like bathrooms and basements where mold growth is more common.
Early signs of mold exposure frequently mimic seasonal allergies. They include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, coughing, postnasal drip, and red, itchy, or watery eyes. Skin irritation or rashes may also occur, and mold can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms like wheezing and chest tightness.
In healthy individuals, the immune system naturally clears inhaled mold spores on its own. If spores cause allergic reactions, inflammation, or an active lung infection (such as aspergillosis), you need a doctor to evaluate your symptoms.
While HEPA filters excel at capturing tiny airborne particles like dust, pollen, and allergens, they do not remove gases or odours on their own. However, when combined with carbon filters, HEPA filters can contribute to reducing smells by trapping particulate matter that may carry odours.
Expensive air filters are usually worth it if you have severe allergies, pets, or asthma, but they come with important trade-offs. Mid-range pleated filters often provide the best balance of air quality, system efficiency, and affordability for average homes.
HEPA filters typically last between 6 to 12 months of continuous use for standard air purifiers. However, the exact lifespan varies based on the filter type, your environment, and how often the unit runs.
Alaska has the highest average indoor radon levels in the United States, measuring at an average of 10.7 pCi/L. South Dakota follows closely as the second-highest at 9.6 pCi/L, and Pennsylvania ranks third with 8.6 pCi/L. These levels significantly exceed the EPA's recommended action level of 4.0 pCi/L.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the decay of uranium and thorium. It is primarily emitted by rocks with higher-than-average concentrations of these elements, including granites, dark shales, phosphate-rich sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic rocks (like gneiss or schist) derived from them.
A definitive causal link between radon exposure and Parkinson's disease has not been scientifically established. However, some ecological studies and laboratory research suggest an association between high levels of radon exposure and an increased risk of developing neurodegenerative conditions, including Parkinson's.