What’s a Good Air Filter for Allergies?

HVAC

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// Posted by Eco Heating & Air Solutions, Inc.

If allergies are affecting your home in Knoxville, selecting the right air filter can help improve air quality and reduce allergy symptoms. At Eco Home Solutions, we’re here to assist in choosing the best air filter for your HVAC system or portable air purifier to ensure relief.

Key Takeaways

  • Effective Air Filtration: Improve allergy relief by choosing the right air filter.
  • High CADR Filters: Filters with high Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) remove allergens faster.
  • HEPA Filters for Maximum Performance: HEPA filters capture up to 98% of airborne pollutants.
  • MERV Ratings Matter: Higher MERV ratings mean better filtration for allergy relief.

Choosing the Right Air Filter for Your Allergies

When reducing allergy symptoms, the right air filter is essential. Tiny allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander vary in size, affecting how well filters can capture them.

Focus on two key ratings when selecting an air filter: Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) and Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR).

  • MERV rates how well a filter captures airborne particles.
  • CADR indicates how fast the filter delivers clean air to your home.

Follow the 2/3 Rule for best results: the CADR of your filter should be two-thirds of your home’s square footage. For a 1,200-square-foot home, look for a filter with a CADR of at least 800.

Higher CADR means faster clean air circulation. Here’s a comparison of various air filters:

  • Portable air purifier with fiberglass filter: CADR 10
  • 1-inch standard HVAC air filter: CADR 12
  • Portable air purifier with HEPA filter: CADR 150
  • Whole-house air purification system with 5-inch filter: CADR 240
  • Whole-house electronic air filter: CADR 660

Which Air Filter Is Best for You?

The performance of your air filter depends on its material and construction. While high-performing filters may cost more, they’re a great investment for allergy relief.

Here’s how different air filter materials stack up:

Fiberglass Air Filters
Common and affordable, but they capture less than 10% of allergens, making them less effective for allergy sufferers.

Pleated Fiberglass Air Filters
These have an additional cotton and polyester layer, boosting filtration and capturing 20% to 50% of allergens depending on the MERV and CADR ratings.

HEPA Air Filters
HEPA filters are the best for allergy relief, removing up to 98% of airborne pollutants. They work well in air purifiers, HVAC systems, and whole-house air purifiers. Although pricier, they offer top performance. Be sure to check with Eco Home Solutions to ensure compatibility with your HVAC system.

The Verdict: What Is the Best Air Filter for Allergies?

HEPA filters are the most effective but may not fit all HVAC systems. Consult your system’s manual or contact the manufacturer to determine the highest-rated filter your system supports. If HEPA isn’t an option, look for a high MERV-rated filter and consider a portable air purifier for extra relief.

Additional Tips for Reducing Allergy Symptoms:

  • Dust and vacuum regularly
  • Wash bedding weekly
  • Keep windows closed during allergy season
  • Change your HVAC filter more frequently during allergy season (up to once a month!)

Get Allergy Relief from Eco Home Solutions

Allergies don’t have to be a hassle. With the right air filter, you can improve air quality and enjoy relief from seasonal allergies.

Our expert technicians at Eco Home Solutions are ready to help you choose the best filter for your system and offer other air quality improvements. Contact us today to create a more comfortable, allergy-friendly home in Knoxville!

Electric Heat pump outside
About Eco Heating & Air Solutions, Inc.
Eco Home Solutions is a locally owned company offering heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and whole-home generator services in East Tennessee  and surrounding areas. We provide sales, service, and installation for HVAC systems, plumbing, and generators in homes and light commercial buildings.
Since 1982, our founder, Mr. Richard Gilmer, has been dedicated to keeping his neighbors comfortable. We focus on eco-friendly practices and are EPA-certified, ensuring environmentally safe refrigerant recycling and equipment disposal.
Our NATE-certified, drug-free professionals work efficiently to minimize disruption. From heating and cooling to plumbing and backup power, Eco Home Solutions is proud to be your trusted partner since 1982.
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FAQ

What are the signs that indicate it's time for HVAC maintenance?

Look out for these signs: rising energy bills, uneven heating or cooling, strange noises, frequent repairs, the system's age, poor air quality, lack of comfort, leaks or moisture, outdated tech, and humidity issues at home.

FAQ

What is central air conditioning?

Central air conditioning is a system that cools your home. It removes heat and humidity from the air. This is done using outdoor and indoor parts.

FAQ

How long does it take to replace an AC unit?

Replacing an AC unit can take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours. This depends on the project's size, the AC type, and where it's located. It's an estimate, but it gives you a rough idea.

How can rising energy bills be a sign of HVAC issues?

An aging HVAC system uses more energy to keep your home comfortable, raising your bills. Watching your energy bills can show when it's time for maintenance or a new system.

How does a central air conditioning system work?

It works by moving refrigerant through an indoor coil and an outdoor coil. A compressor and fans help transfer heat. The refrigerant takes heat from the air inside and sends it outside.

Then, it sends cooled air back through ducts and vents throughout your home.

What is the average time to replace an air conditioner?

Generally, it takes 4 to 8 hours to replace an air conditioner. If you're also replacing your furnace, it might take longer, around 8 to 14 hours.

What does uneven heating or cooling in the home indicate?

Uneven temperatures might mean ductwork problems, old equipment, or an inefficient system. Getting a new, right-sized, and balanced system can fix this and keep your home comfortable.

What are the key components of a central air conditioning system?

The main parts include the outdoor unit and the indoor unit. The outdoor unit has the condenser, compressor, and fan. The indoor unit has the evaporator coil, air handler, and ductwork.

There's also the refrigerant and the thermostat.

How does the installation time for an AC unit vary?

The time it takes to install an AC unit changes a lot. It depends on your home's size, how easy it is to get to the AC, and the type of AC. It also matters if you're just changing it or getting a whole new system.

What do unusual noises from the HVAC system mean?

Noises like banging, rattling, or squealing suggest mechanical issues, like worn parts or loose components. These sounds are serious and could lead to expensive repairs or system failure if ignored.

What are the different types of central air conditioning systems?

There are split systems and packaged units. Split systems have indoor and outdoor units. Packaged units have everything in one outdoor unit.

There's also heat pump systems. They can heat and cool your home.

How do frequent HVAC repairs indicate a larger problem?

Older HVAC systems need more repairs to keep working. If repairs happen often, it might be cheaper to get a new, reliable system in the long run.

How do I choose the right central air conditioning system for my home?

Consider your home's size and what you need from the system. Think about energy efficiency and features like smart thermostats and humidity control.

Make sure the unit is the right size for your home.

When is it time to replace an HVAC system based on its age?

Most HVAC systems last 10-15 years, depending on use and care. If your system is getting old, it's time to think about a new, energy-saving model.

When should I repair or replace my central air conditioning system?

If your system is over 10 years old and needs a lot of repairs, it might be time for a new one. Newer systems are more efficient and cost less to run.

What does inconsistent comfort in the home mean for the HVAC system?

If you're always adjusting the thermostat or feeling uncomfortable, your system might not be working right. A new, efficient system can give you better control over your home's climate.

How can I improve the energy efficiency of my central air conditioning system?

Use a programmable thermostat and make sure your home is well-insulated. Block heat with window treatments or plants.

Why is regular HVAC maintenance important?

Regular maintenance, like tune-ups, filter changes, and inspections, can catch and fix problems early. This can save you from big repairs or replacing your system too soon. It also makes your system last longer and work better.

When is it time to replace my central air conditioning system?

Look for signs like age over 15 years, frequent repairs, trouble keeping the temperature steady, strange noises, and rising energy bills.

How can outdated HVAC technology affect your home's comfort and efficiency?

New HVAC tech improves energy use, performance, and comfort. Old systems miss out on these benefits. Upgrading to a newer system can save energy and make your home more comfortable.

Why should I use a professional HVAC technician for my central air conditioning needs?

They have the skills and tools to install, maintain, and fix your system right. This ensures it works well, efficiently, and lasts longer.

Electric Heat pump outside
About Eco Heating & Air Solutions, Inc.
Residential and light commercial heating, cooling, air quality, and plumbing are specialties at Eco Heating & Air Solutions, Inc. We provide home and business owners in Oak Ridge, TN and surrounding areas free estimates, service of all makes and models, and trusted solutions to everyday requirements.

We are an eco-friendly, award-winning company and uphold Better Business Bureau accreditation. Our team of professionals is NATE-certified, drug-free, and dedicated to earning your approval and loyalty.

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