You want to keep staff, customers, vendors, guests, and anyone else who visits your facility safe. By using HVAC filters for COVID-19, you can improve indoor air quality in occupied space and reduce the risk of infection.
We don’t want to waste any time, so we’ll start by answering a few common questions about HVAC systems and COVID-19, then list our top three COVID HVAC filters.
FAQs About Air Filters, HVAC Systems, and COVID-19
How Often Should Commercial HVAC Filters be Changed?
In office environments and many commercial settings, it’s usually best to change commercial air filters in an HVAC system every three months. Filter replacement once a month is ideal in places like restaurants, factories, and others that produce exhaust and debris.
Do HVAC Filters for COVID Really Work?
Yes, the right filter can trap the vast majority of droplets containing COVID-19 and some other viruses, removing viruses. Using such a filter won’t eliminate the risk of exposure, but can significantly reduce it by capturing particles.
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends the type of filters rated to trap airborne particles of 1 micrometer (µm) in size. That’s the size of the respiratory droplets in which the virus is transmitted.
Look for filters rated on the ASHRAE MERV standard at 13 or higher. Those same filters are designated as ePM1 under ISO 16890.
Our Top 2 Best HVAC Filters for COVID-19
Using filters that meet or exceed ASHRAE MERV 13 (or ePM1 under ISO 16890) is your best bet in general. Here are a few more specific recommendations.
1. HEPA Filter
The CDC explains that “a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter is at least 99.97% efficient at capturing particles 0.3 µm in size.” It goes on to clarify that, because of the normal size of respiratory droplets, that 99.97% effectiveness rate is the absolute minimum level of performance to expect from a HEPA filter.
2. MERV 13-rated (or Above) Filter
We’ve already reviewed the reasoning behind choosing a filter with a MERV rating of 13 or more. Their ability to capture particles of the size we’re targeting is crucial. You can choose a filter with a higher MERV rating, but in all cases, you need to make sure it’s compatible with your system. The increased effectiveness can also make your HVAC system less efficient.
Keeping Your Facility as Safe as Possible
While no air filter can trap all viruses or make a facility completely safe, using the right filter in the proper way can reduce the risk of exposure to viruses like COVID-19.
Brite Solutions can effectively oversee and manage all of your facility’s needs. That includes finding the best filter for your specific HVAC system and ensuring it’s properly maintained and regularly replaced.
Learn more about our comprehensive maintenance services for all types of facilities. Request a Quote Today!