Because not all HVAC systems can use HEPA filters, air filters with a MERV rating of 13 to 16 are the best option to trap pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and dust mites, and they're highly effective for reducing allergens and improving indoor air quality.
The most cost-efficient choice is a disposable filter with a MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) rating of 11 to 13 — the higher the MERV rating the better. The filter will catch particles such as pollen, pet allergens and mold, and it won't impede the airflow.
In most cases, a MERV 11 air filter isn't too high for residential use. Generally speaking, anything under a MERV 13 air filter should provide very efficient air purification in a home without impacting airflow.
Consider HEPA Filters
For the most effective allergy and asthma control, consider High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters. HEPA filters are known for their ability to capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns.
MERV 8 pleated filters are made of 100% synthetic media to capture common airborne contaminants between 3-10 microns in size. These allergens include pollen, pet dander, lint and dust mites.
Filters rated MERV 8 are an excellent choice for homes without air quality concerns like allergies or respiratory health complaints. A MERV 11 filter, in contrast, provides enhanced filtration by capturing a greater percentage of smaller particles, including vehicle emissions, bacteria, and mold spores.
Do air purifiers help with pollen allergy? Air purifiers do remove pollen and therefore relieve many allergy symptoms. An air purifier from Blueair removes most airborne allergens, such as pollen, from your indoor air. To be precise, Blueair Classic air purifiers remove 99% of pollen in a room in 20 minutes.
For multiple occupant homes or those with 1 pet, it may be necessary to change the air filter at least once every 2-3 months. If you or someone in your family suffers from allergies, it is recommended that you replace your air conditioner's filter at least once every 20-45 days, or more frequently if needed.
The results of this analysis indicate that use of a MERV12 or higher performing air filter in home ventilation systems can effectively reduce indoor levels of these common asthma and allergy triggers.
Air purifiers can also be effective in removing common indoor allergens like dust and pet dander. However, if you experience dryness and irritation due to allergies, a humidifier can provide relief by adding moisture to the air. Dry air can worsen symptoms such as dry throat, itchy eyes, and dry skin.
MERV‑8 filters are among the most popular choices because they strike a balance between performance and adaptability, fitting most systems without modifications. However, it's worth noting that filters with higher MERV ratings can restrict airflow.
The MERV 11 air filter is the wrong choice for people who do not own pets and do not have any breathing trouble; this is because it can lead to restricted airflow. Air filters with higher ratings can also have negative effects on HVAC components.
Similar to the previous MERV filters, it is often recommended to replace MERV 8 filters every 90 days. As a side note, make sure to replace you air filter with the right air filter size.
MERV 11 is effective at controlling dust, pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. Applicable in most commercial buildings, residences, industrial workplaces, and paint booths.
Medical professionals suggest prioritizing maintaining a clean home and frequently sanitizing frequently used surfaces. Air purifiers should just be an accessory to your cleaning routine, not a priority.
MERV 8 filters capture basic particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander and are adequate for most households. Higher ratings, such as MERV 11 to 13, offer enhanced filtration, capturing smaller particles like mold spores and smoke, which is beneficial for those with allergies.
While most newer systems can accommodate filters with higher MERV ratings, if you have an older system, a filter with a high MERV rating may lower the air pressure too much, which can interfere with the system's function or strain the blower.
A MERV rating between 9-12 or even higher would be good if someone in your family suffers from allergies or asthma. A MERV 11 filter can trap particles such as dust, dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, lint, and larger particles.
What kind of filter should I use in my home HVAC system to help protect my family from COVID-19? Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values, or MERV, reports a filter's ability to capture particles. Filters with MERV-13 or higher ratings can trap smaller particles, including viruses.
Filters with a MERV rating of 11 to 13 are ideal for capturing common allergens like dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander. Electrostatically charged fibers can increase the filter's ability to capture smaller particles, while pleated designs provide a larger surface area for trapping even more.
Some studies have shown that placing an air filter in your home can reduce indoor air pollution and provide some relief from allergy symptoms . However, the type of air purifier you use is important, as some air cleaners have been shown to exacerbate allergies instead of relieving them.
Contaminants will continue to accumulate in the air, meaning that the air purifier must work continuously to eliminate them. Once you shut the device off, unwanted pollutants like dust, pet dander, pollen and bacteria will return within a few hours.
HEPA Filters:
High-efficiency particulate Air (HEPA) filters are among the most effective options for allergy sufferers. HEPA filters can trap 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns or larger, making them highly efficient at capturing allergens.
Headaches, sore throat, coughing, Asthma attacks, and difficulty breathing are a few of the symptoms that can be brought on by some air purifiers. Yes, that's right. Your air purifier may actually aggravate many of the health issues you hoped it would solve.
Room air cleaners are portable, electric appliances that remove fine particles, such as dust and pollen, from indoor air. A standard room air cleaner, operating continuously, uses approximately 450 kWh per year in electricity. This is more than the energy used by some new refrigerators!