When it comes to air filtration, HEPA and MERV 13 filters are two of the most popular options. While they both remove particles from the air, they work in different ways. MERV 13 filters are designed to capture particles larger than 0 or 30 microns, while HEPA filters are designed to capture particles smaller than 0.30 microns. Many businesses and facilities use air filters to prevent the spread of bacteria and keep their employees healthy.
The air conditioning system circulates air, and larger particles such as hair, dander, moisture, dust, and pollen are filtered as air passes through the HEPA filter. Different filters are more efficient at filtering different substances, but you don't have to choose just one filter for your office, school, or business. Considering the threat posed by the spread of COVID-19 and other germs, upgrading a building's air filter to a HEPA is a much more effective step than simply upgrading to a MERV 13. This is because the virus is very small (0.06 to 0.12 microns), so the more efficient the filter, the better. Air filters are designed to draw indoor air through your system and trap any harmful particles within their fibers.
At a minimum, a MERV 13 filter will trap less than 75% of air particles ranging in size from 0.3 to 1.0 microns. A HEPA filter with a MERV 17 rating will trap 99.97% of air particles that are 0.3 microns in size, but will capture an even greater percentage of particles smaller or larger than that size. The MERV scale, which ranges from 1 to 20, was developed by leading air quality experts from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). It is a useful way to compare performance between different filters and qualifies the ability of a filter to trap microscopic and macroscopic particles; FPR ratings only consider the filter's ability to capture or remove particles from 0.3 to 1 micron.
In conclusion, it is clear that a HEPA filter is the ultimate solution in the world of air filters and far exceeds what a MERV 13 can do. With its higher rating, these filters have smaller pores which make it difficult for clean air to pass through smoothly. You can also use several filters in a portable air purifier and benefit from all of them. Many existing air conditioning systems also find it difficult to adopt a MERV 13 due to the increased load on the fan due to the finer filter media.
This can cause more harm than good and reduce airflow if the system is not designed to withstand this type of filter.
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