Allergies can make everyday life miserable, especially when the air inside your home isn’t as clean as it should be. Dust, pet dander, pollen, and other airborne particles can easily circulate through your HVAC system, triggering allergy symptoms and reducing indoor air quality. One way to improve the air you breathe is by using the right air filter products for your HVAC system to capture allergens.
How Air Filters Improve Indoor Air Quality
As air moves through your HVAC system, the filter traps airborne contaminants before they circulate throughout your home. Filters are mainly to protect your HVAC system but without them, these particles can build up in your ductwork, settle on surfaces, and worsen allergy symptoms.
Filters with higher MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings capture smaller particles, making them more effective at improving air quality. However, it’s important to choose a filter that balances efficiency with proper airflow, as overly restrictive filters can strain your HVAC system, as not all filter types are compatible with all systems.
Best Types of Air Filters for Allergy Sufferers
Not all air filters are equally effective when it comes to reducing allergens. Here are the best options for those dealing with allergies:
- HEPA Filters – High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters can capture up to 99.97% of airborne particles, including pollen, dust mites, and mold spores. However, they may require system modifications to work with standard HVAC units.
- Pleated Filters – These filters offer a higher surface area for trapping allergens and typically have a MERV rating between 8 and 13, making them a great option for most homes.
- Electrostatic Filters – Designed to attract and trap airborne particles using an electric charge, electrostatic filters can help reduce allergens in your home.
- Activated Carbon Filters – While not specifically designed for allergens, these filters help eliminate odors and chemical pollutants that can aggravate respiratory issues.
How Often Should You Replace Your Air Filter?
A dirty air filter won’t do much to help with allergies or air quality. To keep your HVAC system running efficiently and your air as clean as possible, we recommend checking your filter every month and replacing it at least every 60 to 90 days. If you have pets or allergy sufferers in your home, replacing the filter more frequently—every 30 to 45 days—can help reduce airborne irritants.
Improve Your Indoor Air Quality with Ideal HVAC Services
If you or your family members struggle with allergies, upgrading your air filter is a simple way to breathe easier. At Ideal HVAC Services, we provide expert cooling and heating maintenance services in Warrenton, VA, and help homeowners improve indoor air quality with professional recommendations. Contact us today to schedule a service and create a healthier home environment.
