This is the time of year when everyone starts shifting gears from summer relaxing to back-to-school. However, if you are an allergy sufferer this may be one of your most challenging times of year thanks to allergens like ragweed. However, you have a great tool at your disposal for countering the effects of late summer allergies: your AC’s air filter. The standard air filter that comes with your air conditioner isn’t going to help you much, but an upgraded air filter installed by the indoor air quality experts at Boehmer Heating & Cooling can help alleviate many of your allergy symptoms.
Better Quality = Better Health
The standard air filter your air conditioning system is equipped with is made to screen out only large particles, those 10 microns or higher. The average size of allergen particles ranges from 3 to 7 microns, so your standard air filter won’t help much – but a better grade of air filter will.
The way to determine how effective a given air filter will be is to review its MERV rating. MERV stands for minimum efficiency reporting value, and rates on a scale of 1-20, with 20 being the highest. For allergy sufferers, you’ll want to choose an air filter in the MERV range of 8-12, as this range will capture pollen, dust, pet dander, dust mites and mold spores. Any air filters with a MERV of 13 or higher are considered HEPA filters, and these can seriously restrict the air flow in your air conditioning system. If you feel you need a HEPA filter in your home, work with a specialist before installing one.
There’s no need to let late summer allergies ruin the last of your summer days in Bethel Park. Call our experts today for help upgrading your home’s air filter!