How to Choose An HVAC Air Filter For Homes With Pets
A lot of people in the United States are owners of pets and it’s understandable why. Pet owners such as dogs and cats say that these animals not only provide companionship, but they also bring happiness and minimize stress. Research has also shown that they help to improve mental and physical health. It is no surprise then, that many pet owners allow them to move around the house freely. However, there is a downside. They leave dander and fur all over the floor and furniture; affecting the quality of air indoors. These can actually trigger asthma attacks, allergies, and other respiratory diseases. If you are a pet owner, you can prevent this by installing a good quality HVAC air filter for homes with pets.
How Does The HVAC Air Filter Work?
Contents
The main function of the HVAC air filter is to stop undesirable air particles from entering the ventilation, cooling, and heating unit. Clean air will pass through, leaving behind fur, dust, pollen, dirt, and other unwanted particles. The filter ensures that the unit remains clean for longer periods; enhancing the lifespan of the device. In addition to that, the filter improves the quality of the indoor air because of the reduction in the number of pollutants. What the owner simply needs to do is to change the filter every month or so in order to make sure that the unit continuously works at its best.
MERV Rating
Air filters are classified based on their ability to trap unwanted air particles. The ratings are articulated through the least effectiveness reporting value, also known as MERV. A higher rate is always better even though it means that you will be paying more.
The lowest rating (MERV 1-4) will give you the least amount of security. Although the low-level filter will be able to block things such as pollen, dust mites, and fibers, that is just about it. As for the MERV 5-8 filter, it can trap all these contaminants as well as blocking dust and stopping mold spores; making it better than the lowest-rated types.
If you opt for the MERV 9-12, it will also be able to trap allergens such as pet dander. This is beneficial for those people who suffer from allergies. The filter with the highest rating is the MERV 13-16. This type of filter can go on to trap things such as bacteria and viruses. So, this device works best for people who suffer from respiratory sensitivities.
The More Fur Your Pets Have The More Frequently You Will Have To Replace Your HVAC Filters
Every household needs to be cleaned every now and then, but for those who have pets, they have to deal with pet hair as well. So, the more pets you have, the poorer the air quality will be. Apart from changing the air filters on a regular basis as per the recommendations of the manufacturer, there are other things you can also do. For instance, making use of a vacuum cleaner to remove pet hair from carpets, sofas, and beddings. If you have more pets or one that sheds a lot of hair, go above and beyond the manufacturer’s recommendations as the filter will most likely get dirty much quicker.
Variations Of HVAC Filters
In addition to knowing more about air filters and why you need them, it is important to also know the various kinds which you can use for the HVAC unit. Familiarize yourself with their strengths and weaknesses. Get to know the types that are ideal for your particular set-up as a pet owner who wants clean indoor air and contraptions that last longer.
1. Air Filters That Are Disposable
For those that do not have much to spend, you might have to just go for the cheapest option. One of the cheapest options is a disposable system that normally has low MERV ratings. Although they are not the best option when it comes to trapping airborne particles, they do work to a certain extent. However, if you own pets, you have to be prepared to replace the filter at an even faster rate. Also, even though purchasing the filters is cheap, at the end of the day the maintenance costs will be high.
2. The HEPA Air Filter
HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air filters. As the name suggests, they are of a high degree in terms of quality. This type of filter can block almost 99.7% of unwanted air particles which are bigger than o.3 microns. This means that they can trap most contaminants including typical allergens and pet hair. If you have a family member or family members that have allergies or respiratory issues, then this would be the best option for your home.
3. The Electronic Air Filter
There are filters that are even better than the HEPA type and these are known as electronic air filters. This type of filter can capture almost all air particles that are 0.1 microns or bigger. However, before you buy them it is important to note that they cost more than HEPA filters and they produce some noise when filtering pet hair.
Conclusion
As a pet owner, it is important to take good care of yourself if you want to be able to look after your pets. You cannot be a good caregiver to your pet if you have chronic allergies or you are constantly having asthma attacks as a result of pet dander. The best way to ensure that allergens and pet dander do not affect your health is to use a good quality air filter for your HVAC unit.
In order to get the maximum protection, opt for the ones that capture most unwanted particles. You can do this by looking at the efficiency ratings before you make a choice. Unless your budget is extremely tight, do not go for the disposable air filters. If you cannot afford the highest quality filter, rather go for the HEPA filter as it will provide better protection. Check for high MERV ratings before purchasing an air filter. You can also talk to your local HVAC company to find out more about improving your indoor air quality at home.
Contact Lawes Company For Expert Indoor Air Quality Solutions
Residents in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey can always rely on Lawes Company for top-of-the-line cooling and heating solutions. Our licensed technicians are able to provide fast, reliable, and accurate installations, replacements, tune-ups, and repairs on your HVAC system. Our techs have the experience and the know-how for ensuring superior workmanship and results.
Lawes Company offers highly competitive pricing on heating and cooling services throughout the region. For improved comfort, indoor air quality, greater efficiency, and more manageable home energy costs, take advantage of our maintenance services. If you need to have your home HVAC system replaced, we’ll help you find the perfect model for your space and your spending abilities. Our work is backed by a solid guarantee. Call Lawes Company now to set your appointment up.
Contact us now at (732) 741-6300 to find out more!