Air filters are essential for maintaining the air quality in your home. They can remove almost all particles from the indoor air of your facility, and are especially important in cases where air quality is critical. All air filters require regular cleaning and filter replacement to work properly, so it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance and replacement. The Minimum Efficiency Report Value (MERV) scale is a system that rates filters based on how efficiently they trap air polluting particles of certain sizes.
The higher the MERV number, the more efficient the filter will be. However, filters with a MERV rating higher than 13 are too dense for many residential systems, as they can strain the engine and cause premature failure unless modifications are made to the equipment. Fortunately, MERV filters 7 to 13 are almost as efficient as HEPA filters, according to the U. S.
government. If you want a filter with a MERV higher than this, it's best to consult a heating and cooling professional first. A true HEPA filter can benefit you if you have respiratory health problems, but you may need a bypass system to add whole-house HEPA filtration without impeding airflow. At Roth Heating & Cooling, we can help you navigate the world of air filters and cleaners, and improve the air quality of your home in the Portland area.
Our goal is to help educate our customers on energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). We can also help you discover the perfect filter type for your home that will improve efficiency and lower energy bills while keeping your home air clean and safe to breathe. Air filters also help keep oven coils and heat exchangers clean, which can extend the life of the oven and keep it running efficiently. So if you want the cleanest possible air for your home in the Portland area, make sure to choose a filter with a high efficiency rating.