AC Filters for People with Allergies

Many people are afflicted by allergies, and indoor air quality (IAQ) either makes it easier or more difficult to deal with the unpleasant symptoms. If your goal is to improve IAQ and limit the existence of allergens in your home, picking out the appropriate AC filter is vital. Learn which air filter ratings are preferred for people with allergies and guidelines for choosing the right air conditioner filter.

Allergens and Indoor Air Quality

Allergens are elements that cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Common indoor allergens include:

• Dust mites
• Pet dander
• Mold spores
• Tobacco smoke
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Bacteria and viruses

Common outdoor allergens include:

• Pollen
• Ragweed
• Wildfire smoke
• Smog and ozone

These allergens can float in the air or be found on surfaces, causing discomfort for allergy sufferers when inhaled, ingested or coming in contact with eyes. Keeping clean indoor air is a critical part of managing allergy symptoms, and using an effective AC filter to capture allergens is a key component.

Do Filters Help Reduce Allergy Symptoms?

Traditional AC filters are ill-equipped to lessen allergy symptoms. Most are simply supposed to reduce dust particles, textile fibers and other large airborne substances from getting into your HVAC system. A higher-end filter is necessary to capture allergens and stop them from circulating inside your home.

The ideal air conditioning system filters for allergies have a high minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV rating, which indicates their effectiveness at capturing small particles on a scale of 1 to 20. For instance, a MERV 8 filter can trap pollen and mold spores, while a MERV 13 filter can also remove very small smoke particles and large bacteria. An allergy air conditioning filter with a high enough MERV rating will lower the airborne allergens for much-needed relief.

Be aware that MERV ratings of 17 to 20 describe high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters designed to capture at least 99.97 percent of particles as small as 0.3 microns in size. While this makes them very effective at removing allergens like dust, mold spores, bacteria and viruses from the air, most HEPA filters slow airflow so severely that they are not practical for residential applications. Consult a professional before installing a HEPA filter to help decide if your air conditioning system is compatible.

Are Allergy Filters Worth the Expense?

While allergy air filters for AC units are often more costly than standard filters, the rewards usually outweigh the costs for allergy sufferers. After all, paying for a high-quality air conditioning filter to alleviate discomfort from allergies helps maintain good indoor air quality and reduces allergy symptoms, improving overall health and well-being. Additionally, using a filter with a higher MERV rating can lengthen your HVAC system’s life by helping it stay clean and run correctly. Remember these long-term benefits of allergy filters when deciding whether to buy yourself one.

Recommendations for Choosing an AC Filter

Selecting the correct air filter is crucial for good IAQ and fewer allergy symptoms. Here are some essential tips and guidelines to help you choose the perfect air conditioner filter for allergies:

• Consider the MERV rating: Choose a filter with a MERV rating that best matches your needs. For many allergy sufferers, a filter rated MERV 11 to 13 features the best balance between allergen capture and airflow efficiency.
• Choose the appropriate filter size: Air filters are offered in various sizes, so select one that fits your HVAC system precisely. Incorrectly sized filters allow allergens to blow right through the filter, undermining the filter’s efficiency. Refer to your HVAC system’s manual or contact a professional for help determining the correct filter size.
• Opt for a pleated electrostatic filter: Pleated filters have a greater surface area for catching allergens and are generally more effective than flat panel filters. Those with electrostatic characteristics are better yet. The electrostatic charge helps these filters attract and trap allergens more efficiently than standard filters with equivalent designs and materials.
• Replace your filter on a regular basis: Once you put in a filter, remind yourself to change it often for maximum performance. The general rule is to switch out disposable filters every 30 to 90 days, but check the manufacturer’s guidelines for the recommended replacement interval.
• Seek advice from a professional: If you’re unsure about which filter is best for your needs or how to maintain your HVAC system properly, ask an experienced technician to help you make an informed decision.

Install a High-Quality Air Filtration System in Your Home

If you or someone in your household suffers from allergies, asthma or other respiratory problems, upgrading your air conditioner’s filter is one of the simplest things you can do to manage your symptoms. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help you select and install the perfect air filtration system for your home. For more suggestions about our indoor air quality services, please reach out to a Service Experts office near you today.