Can You Use HEPA Filters with Your HVAC System? 

If you’re worried about the indoor air quality in your Fort Lauderdale residence, HEPA filters are a easy way to purify the air your family breathes. 

HEPA, or high-efficiency particulate air, is the peak measure for air filtration. These filters are typically installed in hospitals, as they filter at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. These filters can remove microscopic pollutants from the air such as mold, dust and pet dander. 

Because of their strong filtration capabilities, HEPA filters are thick and might reduce airflow in some home comfort systems. It’s crucial to talk to a heating and cooling Expert like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning prior to installing one to prevent damage to your furnace. So, let’s go over whether or not you can install HEPA filters in your HVAC system. 

What Is a HEPA Filter and How Does It Purify Air? 

HEPA furnace filters were initially produced to protect scientists from radiation as they created the atomic bomb during World War II. These fiberglass filters have very thin mesh that traps many contaminants. Today, these filters are typically installed in medical settings, science labs and even homes. 

If you tried to have a HEPA filter in your furnace, you’d more than likely have trouble getting adequate air from your vents. This is since your furnace’s blower motor isn’t made to work with such a thick filter. 

What MERV Rating Can My Furnace Work With? 

Filters are graded by their MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. The greater the number, the more effective the filter is at capturing tiny particles. 

Here’s how common household filters are categorized: 

• Flat filters—MERV 5. Filters pollen and dust mites. 

• Pleated filters—MERV 8. Filters pollen, dust mites and mold. 
• Box filters—MERV 13. Traps pollen, dust mites, mold and specific fumes. 

Higher ratings, like MERV 14-20, are installed in commercial and medical centers. A HEPA filter usually ranks at MERV 17-20. 

Generally, the biggest rating you can safely use in your furnace is MERV 13, but we suggest checking with a heating and cooling company like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning prior to avoid damaging your furnace. 

HEPA filters in residences are frequently installed in a separate whole-home air filtration system. This system is installed within your ductwork and works with your HVAC system. 

To enhance filtration power, some types of these systems include UV germicidal lights and activated carbon filters. Germicidal lights have been shown to dependably wipe out certain viruses in homes under certain airflow circumstances. And activated carbon filters can eliminate many pungent odors, including cooking scents or tobacco smoke. 

What to Look for in a HEPA Filter for Your Home 

There are a couple of different solutions that work in partnership with your HVAC system—HEPA filtration systems, air filtration systems and media air cleaners. 

A HEPA filtration system provides the greatest effectiveness, with 99.97% efficiency for pollutants as little as .3 micron. These filtration systems often have a combined filtration process, with a prefilter for big particles, MERV 17 filter for the leftover particles and carbon filter for odors. 

Air purification systems are usually the total package, with a hospital-grade MERV 16 filter, germicidal lights and carbon filters. A media air cleaner is only the filter and may come with carbon filtration add-ons. 

Some of these systems are created to work with distinct brands, while others can be used with all brands. Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning can help you determine what will work best for your family. 

Here are a few things to check for when buying a filtration system for your house: 

• Provides hospital-grade filtration (MERV 16 and up) 
• Captures pollutants, bioaerosols and scents 
• Delivers filtration for your total home, not merely one room 

• Doesn’t create ozone, which might cause respiratory sensitivity 
• Compatible with smart thermostats 

If you’re looking to increase the indoor air quality in your house, the Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning are here to assist you with a free, no-obligation home comfort assessment. Your loved ones’ comfort matters to us, so we’ll work with you to help you choose the right solution for your home. Contact us at 954-736-4314 now to book your appointment.