Air Filtration
Air filtration is a key component to healthy indoor air quality. Small particles in the air can irritate the lungs and increase respiratory problems. These small particulates are removed from the air by filters that are installed into the air distribution system.
Proper filter selection is critical. The more efficient the filter is, the more restriction it places on the flow of air passing through it. To maintain proper system safety and efficiency, this relationship must be taken into account when designing/selecting the filtration system. If this variable is ignored, the reduction of air flow can cause cracked heat exchangers, compressor failure, system lockout, and/or frozen coils.
Selecting a Filter
Filter efficiencies are rated using a "MERV rating." MERV ratings are used to rate the ability of an air conditioning filter to remove dust from the air as it passes through the filter. MERV is a standard used to measure the overall efficiency of a filter. Higher MERV ratings mean fewer dust particles and other airborne contaminants pass through the filter.
MERV ratings range from 1 - 16 and measurements are in microns. Some of the common particles related to MERV ratings are pet dander, insecticide dust, smog, dust, viruses, wood, tobacco smoke, spores, bacteria and pollen.
|
MERV Rating |
Filtration Capability |
| 1 - 4 | ~ 10 microns |
| 5 - 8 | ~ 3 microns |
| 9 - 12 | ~ 1 micron |
| 13 - 16 | ~ 0.3 microns |
