When used correctly, air and HVAC filters can be an effective way to reduce airborne contaminants, including viruses, in a building or small space. However, it is important to remember that cleaning or air filtration alone is not enough to protect people from COVID-19. Additionally, some HVAC systems are not strong enough to push air through more restrictive filters that block smaller particles, such as those with a higher MERV or CADR rating. This can reduce airflow and cause your home to heat and cool less efficiently, as well as potentially damage the system and lead to costly repairs. To ensure you are using the right filter for your HVAC system, it is important to consult your system manual or call an HVAC technician.
When changing the filter, it is also important to use protection as the particles inside the filter may contain live viruses. Air filters come in different shapes and materials, each with different capacities and prices. Knowing the potential pressure drops associated with MERV 13 filters gives you the knowledge needed to implement the controls, consider air resistance, and what you need to do to prepare the air conditioning system for change. The filter is located at the point where the return air duct, which draws air from the house to the HVAC system for conditioning, is connected to the fan's HVAC cabinet.
The air in a room is filtered when it is extracted through the intake manipulator and is pushed through the ventilation ducts. If your home has too many pollutants in the air circulating through it, special devices for indoor air quality can help, and the first step is usually to install special air filters. Having central air conditioning and heating is undoubtedly an advantage for many homeowners, but like all major household appliances, your HVAC system must be well maintained to ensure maximum efficiency. From common misconceptions to recommended best practices, experts have discussed what people need to know about the ASHRAE 52.2 standard, which is a test method for general-ventilated air cleaning devices used to determine removal efficiency by particle size, and filters of air. HVAC system upgrades are extensive and costly if you want to achieve the same efficiency and performance of a portable room air purifier and meet minimum operational reopening guidelines to improve indoor air quality.
One of the ways many people try to protect themselves from COVID-19 is by upgrading their HVAC filters and buying air filtration systems. I see people confusing statements about filter performance with claims about the performance of other air cleaning technologies. Another way I see filtration being misapplied is in air purifiers, which combine HEPA filters with other technologies that eliminate or inactivate infectious aerosols. The introduction of higher strength filters affects air flow, directly affecting the balance and movement of air through HVAC ducts. To ensure you are using the right filter for your system, look for one with a pressure drop similar to that of your current filter or make sure your system can adapt to an upgrade. We want to spend a little more time talking about the air filter in your HVAC systems because it's very important to know what it does and why it's there.
Or, thanks to today's smart home technology, you can even buy smart filters, such as the 3M Filtrete smart air filters, which use sensors to monitor airflow.
