The air filters safeguarding your home’s air quality in the Twin Cities area may not be as effective as you think. Inadequate filters can allow microscopic pollutants to circulate indoors, potentially impacting your health. Regular maintenance, upgrades, and inspections of these filters are essential for maintaining clean and healthy indoor air.
A wide array of air filters is available, ranging from basic options typically provided with Blaine heating and air conditioning equipment to more advanced gas-phase ductwork filters and standalone air purification systems. Upgrading the filter in your furnace or heat pump to a more efficient model can significantly reduce the re-entry of particles and contaminants into your home’s air. Many homeowners opt for upgrading their HVAC filter rather than investing in a separate air purification system, often finding it to be the more cost-effective choice.
Key factors to consider when selecting HVAC air filters include:
MERV Rating: Indicates the filter’s efficiency in capturing small particles, with higher numbers corresponding to better performance. For most homes, experts recommend filters rated between 6 and 12, striking a balance between indoor air quality and airflow.
Pressure Drop: Also known as filter resistance, this measures the impact of the filter on the HVAC unit’s airflow.
Arrestance: Reflects the filter’s ability to trap tiny dust particles.
Dust Spot Efficiency and Holding Capacity: Indicates how effectively the filter can capture and retain airborne dust particles.
Overall Efficiency: Evaluates the filter’s capacity to remove particles and contaminants from the air.
Consulting with a professional heating company in Columbia Heights MN can help determine the most suitable filter specifications based on your home’s equipment and specific requirements.
For those considering standalone air purification systems, factors such as Air Changes Per Hour (ACH) and Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) are important considerations. ACH measures how frequently the unit exchanges the air in your home, while CADR indicates the volume and efficacy of air purification provided by the device.
For further guidance on air filters and purification systems, don’t hesitate to contact Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning. Serving the Twin Cities metro area in Minnesota since 1974, we’re committed to helping you achieve cleaner and healthier indoor air quality.
