HEPA Filters
The High Efficiency Particulate Air, or HEPA, filter, was developed to protect 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 take out 99.97 to 99.99% of particles measuring 0.3 microns and larger. This includes pollen, dirt and dust. A HEPA air cleaner with activated carbon filters can capture chemicals, odors and smoke.
These filters have a MERV rating of 1721, depending on the model. This rating demonstrates how successfully a filter can pull out pollutants from the air.
Because of their high-efficiency filtration abilities, HEPA filters are dense and can limit airflow. It’s important to touch base with Becht/Givens Service Experts to verify your heating and cooling system can handle one.
Media Filters
Media air cleaners are sturdier than common air filters. They’re often four to five times wider—or more. This barrier fits tightly against your HVAC unit.
Because its functional surface is usually around 10 inches, media filters are able to catch about 95 percent of particulates.
These filters last longer too, usually between three to six months.
Electrostatic Filters
There are a couple of electronic filtering systems you can add in your home.
An electrostatic filter uses magnetically charged substance to catch particles. These washable filters are 97 percent effective at clearing tiny particles from your home’s air. Plus, they’re also 30 times more effective than ordinary filters.
An electronic air cleaner applies a high-voltage magnetic charge to trap particles.
Some can eliminate the majority of indoor air pollutants—particles, germs, bacteria, chemical odors and vapors—by up to 99.9 percent. And reduce ozone, a known lung irritant, produced elsewhere in your home.