And MERV 13 air filters will block more than 99% of bacteria and airborne particles that carry viruses. These air filters are incredibly efficient, but are not recommended for residential use. They are large and bulky, and are designed primarily for heavy-duty filtration in locations such as medical facilities. However, air filters with MERV ratings higher than 13 tend to restrict airflow.
This is because they have smaller pores to capture smaller particles. A MERV 14 or higher air cleaner can create more resistance in the airflow than a residential HVAC system is designed to withstand. And a reduction in your system's airflow can worsen the air quality in your home, as well as put too much pressure on your air conditioning system. With a portable air purifier through Sanalife, you can access easy-to-use air filtration systems with MERV 13+ ratings.
You are now equipped to monitor your air filter and change it regularly to the right MERV value for your home and family. For HVAC systems, ASHRAE recommends a filter with a minimum MERV rating of 13, but MERV 14 or higher is preferred. Therefore, a filter with a MERV rating of at least 13 would efficiently capture COVID-19 virus particles and could help reduce the spread of COVID-19 indoors. Most MERV 6 or higher air filters are effective at trapping dust, mold spores, tobacco smoke, pet dander and pollen.
It's important to note that MERV and HEPA are two different types of air filters, although you've probably seen both related to air filtration. So, if you're using a filter with holes that are smaller than recommended (such as a MERV 1), you're basically plugging your HVAC system. MERV values greater than 13 are generally for hospitals, manufacturing plants, and other environments that have high air quality requirements. Therefore, if someone in your household has allergies or a respiratory condition, you should consider purchasing a higher MERV air filter.
Anything higher than a MERV 13 is normally found in a hospital environment, where air sanitation is of the utmost importance. With the increased air filtration provided by higher MERV ratings, there will also be a pressure drop, which will reduce airflow through the system and therefore more energy expenditure to keep up with fan resistance. MERV 13 and above can be used as a final filter in cleanrooms, operating rooms, inpatient hospital care, and smoking rooms. Filters with a MERV rating of 11 can capture some coronavirus particles (65%), but MERV 13 is more effective, removing 85% of particles at 0.3 microns.
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