HVAC Air Filters Prevent Seasonal Allergies

Spring is in full swing with summer just around the corner, and though many of us welcome warmer weather with open arms, these sunny seasons bring some of the worst allergies. Approximately 81 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies every year - especially in the spring and summer months when plants and trees release large amounts of pollen into the air. Pollen causes the body to experience many uncomfortable symptoms like coughing, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, congestions, aches and even fatigue. These symptoms can range from being minor in some people to nearly debilitating in others. In addition, seasonal allergies can be difficult to avoid as we spend more and more time outdoors during these warm months.

Although we can't control what we're exposed to outdoors, we can limit the amount of allergens we bring inside. Using high-efficiency HVAC air filters is a fast, simple and cost-effective way to reduce the frequency and effects of seasonal allergies while indoors.

Read on to learn how Brookaire's MERV 8 and higher HVAC air filters, along with proper air filter maintenance, can be the best defense against seasonal allergies.

What Causes Seasonal Allergies?

Trees, grass, flowers and weeds are all high producers of pollen particles that can range from 2.5 microns up to 100 microns in size. These tiny pollen particles are released into the air and can travel great distances whenever the wind carries them. Pollen makes its way inside through open windows and doors, by clinging to clothing and fabrics or attaching itself to nearly anything it comes into contact with. This makes avoiding exposure to pollen extremely difficult, especially in the warmer months. What's more, the symptoms of seasonal allergies can persist long after initial contact as the pollen can remain in our bodies, and even be released back into the air through sneezing or coughing.

How Do HVAC Air Filters Prevent Allergies?

In short, high-efficiency HVAC air filters can reduce the effects and occurrences of seasonal allergies by removing pollen particles from the air. These filters are specially designed to capture incredibly fine particles as small as 0.3 microns - meaning they are well equipped to stop pollen from making its way indoors as well as prevent it from circulating in the air. As air flows through the HVAC system into these filters, pollen, dust, mold and other allergens get trapped in the filter material.

Though these allergens do not make their way into the air, they remain inside the filter itself - which is why regular air filter maintenance is essential to maintain filter efficiency and reduce the effects of seasonal allergies. Filters can only capture so many particles before they reach maximum capacity, at which point allergens will begin to make their way indoors. This is when replacement is necessary. Conducting regular visual inspections is a reliable way to monitor the condition of your air filters, but if you are ever unsure, it’s always helpful to contact a service professional.

Best HVAC Filters For Allergies

Building and facility managers should use HVAC air filters with a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) of 8 or higher. A MERV 8 filter will capture allergen particles as small as 3 microns, and even smaller particles as the MERV rating increases. This is important to note as smaller allergen particles travel faster and further than larger ones, meaning they pose the greatest threat. Upgrading to a high-efficiency MERV air filter ensures that even the smallest pollen particles will be captured before they can contaminate indoor air.

High-efficiency Particulate Air filters (HEPA) are a step beyond MERV filters and offer the greatest level of allergen protection. HEPA filters can capture up to 99.9% of all airborne particles 0.3-10 microns in size, making them one of the most efficient air filters for standard use. HEPA filters force air through a fine mesh that traps a wider range of harmful allergens. HEPA filters, like all filters, must be maintained properly to ensure HVAC systems are operating at maximum efficiency.

Brookaire is proud to manufacture and supply the Northeast's largest inventory of HVAC air filters and v-belts. Whether it's a standard size or a custom filter built-to-spec, we offer everything industry professionals need to keep their HVAC systems running at peak performance. Browse our MERV & HEPA filters online or contact us today to learn more.