“There is no practical means to limit exposure to pollutants outdoors. However, at least half of a 24-hour day is spent indoors, and air conditioning with high-efficiency air filtration can markedly decrease indoor exposure.” -Environmental Control Measures for Asthma Miles Weinberger, M.D.; Professor of Pediatrics Director, Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonary Division

At Healthy Air USA, we know that proper filtration is essential to reduce common allergens and airborne particles, reducing allergy and asthma attacks.

It is estimated that Americans spend as much as 95% of their time indoors…why spend that time breathing dust mites, mold spores and pet dander? Upgrading your air filter will provide relief to everyone – even if you do not suffer from allergies or asthma. One caution–filters must be maintained and changed regularly to provide a benefit. Failure to change out filters could damage your air-conditioning system.

Which Filter/System is Right for Your Home?

Before spending money on an air purification system that may not meet the unique needs of your home, have an indoor air survey performed. Whether your home is less than 1 year old or over 100 years old, you most likely have an indoor air pollution concentration higher than the air outside. The more time spent in a polluted indoor environment increases the chances of developing respiratory problems. The very young, elderly, those suffering from allergies or asthma, and the immunocompromised are at greater risk.

Air filters are rated on a MERV scale.  The higher the number, the more particulates, dust, fumes and odors are eliminated when air is passed through the filter.  A good example is most businesses that have clean rooms or require extremely clean air have air filters with MERV ratings between 13 and 20. Filters with a MERV rating between 8 and 12 would be used by better commercial buildings, superior residential homes and hospital labs. Any filter with a MERV rating between 5 and 7 would be used in better residential and commercial buildings.  Most homes use filters with MERV ratings between 1 and 4.

Filters Can:

• Remove particulates from the air. The efficiency of a filter is graded using the MERV scale.
• Capture viruses and bacteria
• Capture mold spores
• Capture dust mite fragments and fecal matter
• Carbon filters can remove gasses from the air

Filters Cannot:

• Kill viruses and bacteria
• Kill nor rid your home of mold
• Kill nor rid your home of dust mites
• Rid your home of radon