Over the past couple of years, I’ve learned a ton about HEPA filters.
- I had not given HEPA filters much thought before the pandemic.
If you’re anything like me, you may not have known what HEPA stood for, but since then, I’ve done some research and discovered that HEPA stands for high efficiency particulate air filter. These filters are made to be used in air purifiers and in medical facilities where it is necessary to remove bacteria, mold, and viruses from the air. They are thicker than a typical A/C filter and pleated. They improve ventilation and make sure that the indoor air quality is always high. Although these filters are very effective at removing pollutants, they should not be used with HVAC systems in homes. Actually, installing a HEPA filter in a house’s HVAC system may do more harm than good. In order to meet the demands for heating and cooling, the filters would restrict the airflow inside the units, making them work harder than necessary. Naturally, this would reduce the HVAC system’s effectiveness and possibly increase energy costs. The good news is that the air duct of the air conditioner can be used to install a standalone additional HEPA filter for the entire house. This device filters the air while the HVAC system is running, with no restrictions on airflow. Therefore, if you are concerned about the air quality in your home, consider installing one of these HEPA filtration systems rather than using a HEPA filter. I’m happy I did some research on these filters before I put one in my air conditioner.