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Can You Fight Seasonal Allergies with an Air Filter?

According to recent medical studies, around two million people in the US die because of indoor air pollution. A report from EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), also states that several biological contaminants like cockroaches, house dust, mites, animal dander, cat saliva, and pollen contribute towards allergies in indoor spaces. A 10x20x1 sized air filter in AC and furnace can do wonders in protecting you from allergies.

Air filters are necessary to prevent people from suffering from respiratory disorders. Asthma and lung infection become a common problem if you have allergens in the air. Some allergies are seasonal, while some are common in all the seasons. But it is better to have an air filter in your AC units and furnace to provide better protection from these air polluting allergens.

Here is how air filters protect against allergies.

Thick Coating of Fiber

An air filter has to be manufactured as per HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) standard. HEPA filters have a dense coating with tight weaving that prevents the micro-bacteria from penetrating the air. The air filters firmly fit the furnace and AC frame to prevent allergens’ movement into the unit.

With filters intact, the air purifiers and furnaces work at full capacity. The coating density decides the MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) rating of an air filter. Different MERV rated air filters work at various capacities. 

Maintenance of Air Filters

Air filters come in varied choices of sizes and MERV ratings. Some air filters need replacement every month and some every year. The winter allergies like runny nose, cough, itchy eyes, and sore throat may result from dust mites, animal fur, and heavy moisture.

Also, mold and other microorganisms in the air cause summer allergies like nasal irritation, sneezing, dry cough, and watery eyes. If you run a maintenance check on the air filters, it will be easy to understand whether they are functional. Replacing them from time to time can prevent these seasonal allergies enormously.

Choose the Right Filter Type

The cause of allergies is not restricted to molds, micro-bacteria, or dust mites. The use of chimneys and fuel combustion in the kitchen also cause allergies. Hence, it is necessary to study which type of air filter and sizes like 10x20x1, 12x30x1, or 18x30x1 can provide better service.

Every AC unit and furnace come with different air filter frames. You must consult the appropriate air filter vendor to fix the air filter in your HVAC units. The allergen air filter, asbestos air filter, and hypoallergenic furnace filter work best to prevent allergens from entering your indoor air space.

Go for the Correct MERV Rating

MERV ratings for commercial-use air filters fall between 13 to 20. Whereas, the residential use rating ranges between five to twelve. Your AC and furnace usage may help you in deciding which MERV rating applies to your air filter.

Also, the size of your space can help in determining the MERV rating. Some studies say, the highly-rated MERV is not useful in household use, as it will not protect from preventing the allergens. Only a moderately rated air filter protects the house from molds and purifies the airflow.

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