With the colder weather approaching, we thought it would be beneficial to review some facts about the importance of replacing your furnace filters. Originally furnace filters main function was to protect the furnace and fans within the unit. Nowadays some types of filters can actually be installed to reduce the exposure to particles which can impact your health and allergies.
Your apartment can have a vast amount of particles that you may not be aware of. Common types of particles that you breathe in are from a variety of sources including but not limited to:
- Pet or Human hair & skin flakes
- Dust on the floors that is caused by activity within the house
- Dust that is a result of burning candles, doing laundry, smoking, cooking, etc.
Using a good furnance filter and replacing them often will help reduce the amount of particles within your apartment that may be affecting your health. Most filters are labeled with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating number, which measures a filter's ability to trap particles ranging in size from 3.0 microns to 10.0 microns.
Residential filters commonly have a MERV ratings of 1-11. The higher the MERV rating, the more efficent the filter is, and the more particles it can filter to help reduce the risk of health issues affecting you.
- A MERV rating of 6 = the filter is between 35% to 50% minimum efficient at capturing particles
- A MERV rating of 8 = the filter is between 70% to 85% minimum efficient at capturing particles
- A MERV rating of 11 = the filter is between 85% to 95% minimum efficient at capturing particles
As always we suggest replacing your filters two to four times a year for the best efficiency for your furnace as well as for your health! You can reach out to your Rental Office to confirm the proper size for your filter and also request to have the Maintenance Dept switch out your filter for you if needed.
