Choosing a good air filter is essential in optimizing the indoor air quality of your office space. Air filters remove dust, mold, and other pollutants from the indoor air you breathe. Along with social distancing and wearing masks, the U.S. EPA suggests that effective air filtration can also help combat an airborne virus like COVID-19.
Air filter effectiveness is given a rating called Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value or MERV. Frank Gay Commercial Services recommends a MERV rating of 10 or higher, indicating a very effective filter for your office space. However, we recognize that others recommend air filters with a MERV rating greater than 8.
The New York Times composed a list of three air filters with MERV ratings above 10 that can be installed in your office space:
- Nordic Pure- MERV rating 12
- Honeywell – MERV rating of 11 and higher
- Filtrete – MERV rating of 11 and higher
Other types of filters include disposable electrostatic filters which usually need to be replaced every month, washable electrostatic filters which are reusable and usually last several years, and metal mesh filters which are also washable but not as effective as the electrostatic ones. However, filters alone cannot filter air borne pathogens out of the air. We recommend adding an Atmos Air bipolar ionization system to assist your current HVAC system in eliminating pathogens.
If you have any questions about your filter or HVAC system, give Frank Gay Commercial Services a call to explore your options.
