When spring arrives, we see allergy symptoms spike. Beautiful weather and fresh blooms bring lots of joy, until the coughing and sneezing begins. This may continue even when you stay indoors, unless you have a quality air filter to help keep things under control.
Here, we answer your questions about air filters and allergy control. Choosing the right air filter in Homestead, FL can be difficult, but our technician are here to help! Give us a call for more information about indoor air quality and more.
Why do you have to change the air filter?
When we tell people that it’s important to check the filter monthly and change it every three months, they have some questions. “What if my allergies aren’t acting up?” some may ask. “How will this help my family?”
Any amount of buildup within the filter has an effect on how well your air conditioning equipment runs. A clogged filter can prevent air from moving into the system, leaving it to struggle and wear down. Some air filters are more effective at controlling allergens than others, but they are really designed to protect your AC system from the damage of incoming debris.
Where is my air filter?
Your air filter is located near the air handler of your air conditioning system. At the air handler, look for a hinged opening you can lift to reveal a removable filter. Alternatively, you may find the register in the wall or, as is more and more common, in the ceiling. Air handlers have recently been installed more often in attics, so look for a register directly underneath this.
What is the best air filter for pets?
If you have pets in the home, quality air cleaning is a must. Usually, we recommend a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter to really help control pet dander. However, not every filter is right for any home. While we suggest a whole-house filtration system to really tackle the problem, be sure it is compatible with your AC system first.
Otherwise, look for a filter with a higher MERV rating (minimum efficiency reporting value). While your current filter is likely somewhere between 1 and 4 on the MERV scale, look for one closer to 11.
Should I get the best filter available?
Unfortunately, the answer to this is usually a no. A stronger filter does have a drawback. While it may block particulate from moving through, it can also block air. That means that, not only do you feel less comfortable, but your air conditioner works harder and wears down faster (just as if you had a clogged air filter).
What if you need additional allergy relief?
For some people, the air filters available for a home air conditioning system simply aren’t enough. You may need additional filtration—and that’s doable! Some larger filtration systems have a greater surface area to provide more media for particles to get trapped.
Otherwise, a whole-house air purifier may be right for you. Electronic air purifiers charge particles so they are attracted to surfaces of the opposite charge. Separating particulate from the air without blocking airflow. Some air purifiers have a UV light, designed to kill and sterilize bacteria, viruses, and other germs.
Call Air On Demand for air filtration services in Homestead, FL.