HEPA Or MERV: [Which Filter Is Best?]

Let’s fight back against those seasonal allergies! This allergy season, homeowners can protect their homes from air pollutants and start seeking indoor air quality (IAQ) solutions.

Air pollutants, both indoors and outdoors, can affect your health if they aren’t properly filtered in your air conditioning system. Your air filters are the front lines against these foes, but which type is best for your team? Ball Heating & Air Conditioning wants to share the pros and cons between the two most popular air filter types: HEPA and MERV filters.

HEPA Filters

HEPA filters can make a great addition to your home. You can find these mechanical filters in household items like air purifiers and vacuums. Here are some reasons why homeowners choose HEPA filters for their home.

Pro: Highest Rated Air Pollutant Removal Efficiency

HEPA filters are the leading choice when it comes to air pollutant removal. They can exceed to 99.97% reduction and can trap particles down to 0.3 micrometers. Air particles will naturally adhere to the fibers. These particles can include:

• Pet hair
• Pet dander
• Dust and pollen

You can expect efficient IAQ solutions with a HEPA filter installation.

Pro: Longer Lifespans

Compared to other air filters, HEPA filters can last a long time in your system before needing to be replaced. Depending on your filter quality, your HEPA filter can last 2-3 years before needing a replacement. This means you can spend less time worrying about scheduling your air filter replacements and relax knowing you have clean air in your home.

Con: Lacks Additional Purification Attachments

While these filters can trap the smallest air particles, they can’t do everything all at once. HEPA filters don’t have a UV light sterilizer included. This means that bacteria reduction won’t be as effective with these units.

They also lack an activated carbon filter. Activated carbon filters make it easier to remove odors, chemicals, fumes and other gases that can spread through the air. While HEPA filters will still provide excellent air purification solutions, you will find they won’t perfectly filter out everything without these attachments.

MERV Filters

MERV filters are great filters for homes that are looking for high-quality air purification. Filters that rank high on the MERV ratings are used in air purifiers and dehumidifiers specifically for allergen removal. Here’s why MERV filters could be a great fit for your home.

Pro: Efficient Air Pollutant Removal

MERV filters work great against small air particles. They can filter out pollutants that range anywhere between 0.3-10 micrometers. These filters go through multiple testing procedures before they are ranked, so you can trust that MERV 8 to 12 will protect your home from indoor allergens.

Pro: Retains Fumes, Smoke And Biological Growth

MERV filters work well for homes that may have problems with humidity and moisture. Moisture in your home could lead to dangerous debris build-ups like mold and mildew. These kinds of filters obliterate airborne particles before they build up in your system. If your home needs extra attention to humidity levels, consider getting a MERV filter installation.

Con: Restrictive And Affects Airflow

Because of how they function, MERV filters need regular HVAC maintenance to create the proper airflow for your home. If they are left untouched or are installed improperly, they can clog and make it more difficult to ventilate your air. Keep an eye on your filter and schedule your maintenance visits ahead of time to get the most out of your MERV filter.

Get In Touch With Ball Heating & Air Conditioning For IAQ Solutions!

As you can see, these filters have their own benefits. To find out what’s best for you, contact Ball Heating & Air Conditioning! We can help you choose the perfect filter for your home that fits all your needs. Contact us for air purification solutions and maintenance today!