1. What is a MERV Filter?
– MERV is an acronym for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It is the industry-standard rating system used to measure the performance of air filters. Residential and Commercial ratings typically fall between MERV 5 and MERV 12. The higher the number, the more restrictive the air flow.
BETTER- Rated MERV 8. Picks up most of the dust , debris, mold and pet dander.
BEST- Rated MERV 11. Picks up larger amounts of dust and allergens. Recommended for sufferers of asthma , allergies and other respiratory conditions.
BEST for PETS- Rated MERV 8, paired with a CHARCOAL filter, it eliminates odours left by pets and tobacco smoke.
MERV filters rated 13+ are NOT recommended as they restrict too much air flow, use substantially more energy and can damage your A/C or Furnace. They are typically used for specialized commercial applications, however a higher rated MERV filter can be used in your home as long as it is not placed between the furnace and duct work.
2. What is a HEPA Filter?
– HEPA is an acronym for High Efficiency Particulate Air (filter). They use randomly placed fibres (usually fibreglass), to remove 97-99% of particles in the air. They are high efficency filters. HEPA media filters are most commonly used in vacuum cleaners.
3. What is the difference between an HRV and an ERV?
-HRV is an acronym for Heat Recovery Ventilation. The HRV brings in fresh outdoor air and draws it through a core where it is heated or cooled by the stale outgoing air.The HRV then distributes the preheated fresh filtered air throughout the home by direct ductwork installed specially for the HRV or through the ductwork of a forced-air system.
-ERV is an acronym for Energy Recovery Ventilation. It works the same as an HRV. but with one main difference. The heat exchanger in an ERV transfers water vapour AND heat energy, while an HRV only transfers heat.
ERV’s are not recommended or necessary for our climate in this part of the world.