Air Filters and Effective Mold Spore Removal: What You Need to Know

To begin, let us delve into the world of air filters to determine exactly what the deciding factors should be. Beyond understanding MERV ratings , there are different types of air filters to choose from. There are washable and disposable, electrostatic and non-electrostatic. At the most basic, there are flat panel filtersmade of fiberglass. Fiberglass offers general air filtrationapplications with light to medium dust loading conditions. Fiberglass(or flat panel spun glass) is a basic filter option usually utilized toprotect equipment from dust. Most fiberglass filters offer a MERV-4rating. Some specialty or online retailers offer polyester panelfilters as a basic because polyester panels are considered better forthe environment , more efficient and won't cause skin irritation. Additionally, fiberglass filters do not trap mold spores and the binders used in fiberglass production have a possible link to the promotion of bacterial growth . In comparison to disposable air filters, washable air filters are designed to be reused and are washed out monthly. Somereusable filters are made to last up to 5 years while others are madeto last a lifetime, hence, they are a great choice for protecting theenvironment. Some washable filters are treated with anti-bacterial and anti-microbial compounds to prevent germs and mold growth . In contrast, untreated washable filters can actually contribute to mold growth because mold thrives in a moist environment .While purchasing a washable filter can definitely save you money overtime, it is important to note that most washable filters are lessefficient at catching smaller particles and typically are rated MERV-5. In addition, some air filters claim to be electrostatic, which meansthat they charge particles while airborne so they are attracted to thefilter. In washable filters, the frame is made out of metal; indisposable filters, like Filtrete ,the fibers are electrostatic and claim to act like magnets. There arevarying opinions on electrostatic filters: some say these are the bestand others disagree. It is important to note that the electrostaticaspect only works while the air conditioner or furnace is running andthat candle wax may clog the filter and eventually wreck it. Most residential consumers tend to purchase disposable filters. A MERV-8 will offer filtration for mold spores, pollen , pet dander and dust mite debris , while a MERV-11 will offer filtration for all of those plus microscopic allergens ,some bacteria, disintegrated feces, some tobacco smoke, insecticidedust, lead dust and nuisance dust. Anything rated MERV-13-16 (usuallyfound in hospitals) will offer the highest protection from allbacteria, most tobacco smoke and sneeze germs. You may notice that somefilters have odor control. As long as it is a natural substance, likebaking soda, it can’t hurt. How effective is it? That depends on the MERV rating . If you are trying to remove the odor of tobacco, you need a filter that removes tobacco smoke. Also, you maynotice that the filter you are considering to purchase has a filterefficiency rating. This rating refers to the filter’s ability toactually remove the particles that is says it can remove. For example,if a filter has a 100% filter efficiency rating , itwill be able to remove all of the particles within its MERV rating fromthe air which passes through it. Alternatively, some filters have anumber for their effectiveness rating. For example, a Flanders Arm andHammer Standard MERV-8 filter has an effectiveness number of 343 whilethe Arm and Hammer Elite filter has a MERV rating of 12 and aneffectiveness number of 1481. In sum, air quality is extremely important. Many people suffer from subtle signs of allergies like headaches .While people who suffer from allergies may think that they need to onlyavoid pet dander, dust and pollen, they need to realize that mold is asubstantial allergen . In addition to controlling the moisture in your home , you can also control the journey of a mold spore by using an air filter in your air conditioning/furnace unit thateffectively removes mold spores from the air. Look for a MERV rating ofat least 8 or higher, as well as a high filter efficiency rating. Ifyou are using a reusable filter, the same rules apply and make surethat the filter has been treated by an antimicrobial compound. As forbrands, there are so many to choose from. The simple rule is to findone that is the right size and has the highest MERV rating. Places likeHome Depot carry a selection of air filters that offer high ratings forlower than supermarket prices. And remember: change your disposablefilter often. Most filters come with a 3 month window; however, thereare several factors that can affect the performance of your filter. Ifyou live in a dusty area, have poor insulation, run your unit often,have pets or even have a lot of traffic in and out of your house, yourfilter can become dirty and clogged in no time. Check the filter oftenand replace as necessary. Air filters will not only help the performance of your air conditioneror furnace by keeping it dust free, they will also improve the airquality of your indoor space and help prevent the growth of mold by effectively removing airborne mold spores. For more information onhow to protect your family from mold and mold spores, please contact Advanced Restoration, Inc. at 1-800-DRY-ME-OUT or at www.drymeout.com .

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