HEPA Filters
The High Efficiency Particulate Air, or HEPA, filter, was designed to shield scientists from radiation as they built an atomic bomb during World War II. Today these filters are often used in hospitals, science labs and even homes.
HEPA filters are rated to extract 99.97 to 99.99% of particles measuring 0.3 microns and greater. This includes pollen, dirt and dust. A HEPA air cleaner with activated carbon filters can trap chemicals, odors and smoke.
These filters have a MERV rating of 1721, depending on the brand. This rating indicates how successfully a filter can clear pollutants from the air.
Because of their high-efficiency filtration performance, HEPA filters are dense and can restrict airflow. It’s important to touch base with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to make sure your heating and cooling system can handle one.
Media Filters
Media air cleaners are sturdier than basic air filters. They’re often four to five times wider—or more. This barrier attaches closely against your HVAC equipment.
Because its active surface is usually around 10 inches, media filters are able to trap about 95 percent of particulates.
These filters last longer too, commonly between three to six months.
Electrostatic Filters
There are a couple of electronic filtering systems you can install in your home.
An electrostatic filter uses magnetically charged substance to catch particles. These washable filters are 97 percent effective at removing tiny particles from your home’s air. Plus, they’re also 30 times more effective than everyday filters.
An electronic air cleaner applies a high-voltage magnetic charge to catch particles.
Some can remove the majority of indoor air pollutants—particles, germs, bacteria, chemical odors and vapors—by up to 99.9 percent. And minimize ozone, a known lung irritant, made elsewhere in your home.