Why You Should Invest in HEPA Filters this Spring

Spring is undoubtedly a beautiful season. However, it is also a prime time of the year for seasonal allergies. During this time, plants release pollen, causing millions of people to have different kinds of allergic reactions. Trees, grasses, and weeds release pollen into the air to fertilize other plants. Unfortunately, these tiny grains can get into people’s noses. If you are allergic, your body’s defense system can malfunction.

Pollen is so tiny, which means your average HVAC filter may not be enough to capture them. What you will need is a high-efficiency filter, which can effectively catch not only pollen but other airborne pollutants as well. If you are living with babies, the elderly, or people with preexisting respiratory conditions, investing in a high-grade filter is a must.

Four Seasons Air Specialists is your friendly HVAC company in Circle Pines MN. We are your total indoor air quality provider, offering different kinds of products that allow your family to breathe clean, fresh, safe indoor air.

Overview

As mentioned earlier, your existing HVAC air filters are not enough to rid your homes of airborne pollutants and irritants effectively. Regular filters found in air conditioners range from coarse to medium efficiencies. These filters, though essential, are not as effective as high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. They force air through a fine mesh that collects harmful particles, such as pet dander, dust mites, tobacco smoke, and pollen.

Experts recommend the regular replacement or cleaning of filters, especially during peak months (summer and winter). This simple maintenance step keeps large amounts of dirt and debris from gathering in your HVAC system.

On the other hand, failure to replace or clean your air filters regularly can put your family’s health at risk, especially if you have children, people aged 60 or more, and those with preexisting respiratory or skin conditions. All of these scenarios, including living with domesticated pets, are reasons to upgrade to a HEPA filter.

History

The technology behind HEPA filters was first developed in the 1940s for use in facilities that housed nuclear materials. HEPA filters were designed to keep potentially radioactive particles contained. Eventually, these filters have been used in numerous industries and applications. By the 1960s, HEPA filters were introduced to the consumer market as filters for HVAC systems, vacuum cleaners, and air purifiers.

How Air Filters are Measured

Air filters are measured based on their minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) scale from 1 to 16. A filter rated higher than 16 is considered a HEPA filter. The higher the MERV rating, the more pollutants a filter can capture. Some HEPA filters can even trap certain viruses, in addition to bacteria, mold spores, and cigarette smoke. Moreover, HEPA filters also reduce allergens and respiratory irritants.

How HEPA Filters Help

HEPA filters eliminate up to 99.97 percent of particles 0.3 microns or larger from your indoor air. These filters help you breathe cleaner air that will allow your lungs and other organs to work better, usually leading to better oxygen absorption by your brain. This setup is perfect if you have family members with ongoing respiratory issues.

When your home is equipped with a HEPA filter, you can remove most airborne particles that aggravate allergies. Such a filter has tiny sieves that are small enough to capture the most known airborne pollutants. With a HEPA filter installed in your home, you can effectively minimize allergic reactions and other respiratory infections.

A HEPA filter also works by interception, which takes place when inertial causes a particle to veer off-course and get stranded in the filter’s fibers. Moreover, a HEPA filter can help catch airborne particles through diffusion. When particles are too tiny, they do not go with the airstream properly. This occurrence causes the particle to bounce around unpredictably, leading to a collision with the fibers.

Upgrade to a HEPA Filter with Four Seasons Air Specialists

Allow your family to enjoy the spring. Go for a HEPA filter. To find the right filter for your existing air purification system, give us a call. Our indoor air experts can give you relevant information to help you make an informed decision. We are your trusted Shoreview heating and air conditioning company serving you since 1974.