Indoor air pollution is one of the top environmental health risks. The best way to manage indoor air quality is through ventilation, bringing clean, filtered outdoor air inside. Whether because of weather, or poor outdoor air quality, having an alternate method to maintain good indoor air quality can be vital.
This can be done through filters, mechanical in-duct systems or through portable air cleaners. When selecting an air cleaner, there are things that you want to look for, and some of it will be on the label.
HEPA
HEPA, high efficiency particulate air, filters are at the top of the list for eliminating pollutants in your home’s air. HEPA filtration can be found in portable air cleaners, but they are uncommon in whole house systems because of their effect on air flow. With a MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) of 17-20, they filter nearly 100 percent of even the smallest particles. Air filters with a MERV between 7 and 13 are considered highly effective for most homes, and they do not cause air flow issues.
CADR Rate
The CADR, clean air delivery rate, tells the volume of clean air that any specific air cleaner delivers and its effectiveness in reducing tobacco smoke, dust and pollen from the air. The CADR measurement is given only for portable air cleaners.
The Environmental Protection Agency describes CADR as “a measure of a portable air cleaner’s delivery of contaminant-free air, expressed in cubic feet per minute.” The CADR does not indicate what size particle the air cleaner is capable of filtering.
Asthma and Allergy Certification
An air cleaner’s effectiveness in reducing allergens is provided by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation in a new certification process; very few air cleaners have been given the designation “Asthma and Allergy Friendly” thus far.
Contact one of our professionals for additional information and assistance in finding the right air cleaner for your needs. With 60 years in the Detroit area, we are experts at helping homeowners improve their indoor air quality.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Detroit, Michigan about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about air cleaning and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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