What Are the Benefits of Having a Clean Merv Filter?

>Merv filters are a type of air filter that is installed in the ductwork of your home or business to remove dust and other particles from the air before it reaches your living space. This helps protect you, your family, and your property by keeping harmful substances from entering the air you breathe. However, if your Merv filter is dirty or clogged, it won’t be able to trap these particles. This can result in poor indoor air quality, which can increase your risk of contracting diseases and allergies such as asthma. Fortunately, keeping your Merv filter clean won’t take much time or effort. There are several ways to clean a Merv filter, depending on your specific model. Here are some things you should know about cleaning your Merv filter before it becomes necessary:

What is a Merv filter?

A Merv filter is a type of air filter that is installed in the ductwork of your home or business to remove dust and other particles from the air before it reaches your living space. These filters are commonly used in commercial and industrial settings, such as in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, or other areas where the air quality is important. In residential settings, a Merv filter is commonly installed in the main supply or return ductwork of a home.A Merv filter should be changed every six to eight months, depending on how much dust or other particles are being released from the environment where it is being used. The filter should be changed before the amount of dust or other particles exceeds the recommended level.

Why should you have a clean filter?

A dirty Merv filter won’t be able to trap the same amount of dust and other particles as a clean filter. This can result in poor indoor air quality, which can increase your risk of contracting diseases and allergies such as asthma. Having a clean filter also ensures that your HVAC system is working as efficiently as possible. This can help lower your energy bills, especially if you are using a higher level of air conditioning to heat your home during the winter months.

How to clean a Merv filter?

There are several ways to clean a Merv filter, depending on your specific model. Depending on the type of filter you own, you may be able to remove the filter from the ductwork and wash it in a sink or basin with warm water and mild detergent. You can also use a specialized cleaning product that is designed to remove dust and other particles from air filters. Some filters are made from more durable materials that can withstand being submerged in water. You may also be able to clean a filter by spraying it with a cleaning product and then wiping it with a damp cloth.Whatever method you choose, make sure to rinse the filter thoroughly after cleaning it to remove any detergent or cleaning product residue. This will help ensure that the filter is clean and ready for use again.

Conclusion

Merv filters are an important part of your HVAC system. They help trap dust and other particles in the air, which helps keep your home or business clean and healthy. However, if your Merv filter is dirty or clogged, it won’t be able to trap these particles. This can result in poor indoor air quality, which can increase your risk of contracting diseases and allergies such as asthma. Fortunately, keeping your Merv filter clean won’t take much time or effort. There are several ways to clean a Merv filter, depending on your specific model. Here are some things you should know about cleaning your Merv filter before it becomes necessary:

Frequently Asked Question

What does MERV stand for?
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values. This determines a filter’s ability to capture particles between .3 and 10 microns. This tells the buyer how far a certain type of filter can screen airborne particulate matter.
What is the best MERV rating for air filters?
Usually, it would depend on the type of setting of a household. If the location is dry or if there are pets inside the house. In general, a MERV rating of 8-10 is already good for residential purposes. This type of filter can capture airborne particles and improve your air quality without compromising your budget for replacement and HVAC performance.
Are MERV and HEPA just the same?
HEPA air filters and MERV-rated filters are different. HEPA filters exceed the ASHRAE test protocol used when determining the MERV ratings. HEPA filters are the only air filters that have been tested and certified in meeting a specific efficiency at a particular size.
Which is better, MERV 11 or MERV 13?
They both differ in their particle arresting. MERV 11 furnace filters perform up to 90% particle arresting. The MERV 13 HVAC filters, on the other hand, have a capacity of about 98% which makes them more efficient. The MERV 11 is recommended for residential spaces in the moderately polluted area who owns a pet and has mild allergies.