For many people with allergies or asthma, the quality of the air they breathe is a top priority. Dust, pollen, and other airborne irritants can trigger allergy symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, and difficulty breathing. Similarly, people with asthma may find that their symptoms are exacerbated by poor air quality.

Investing in a high-quality air filter is the best way to ensure indoor air quality. Air filters work by trapping airborne particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander, creating cleaner, healthier air for you to breathe. But with many different types and brands of air filters on the market, how do you know the right one for your home or office? The following are some factors to consider when choosing the best air filter for allergies.

Size Matters

The size of your air filter is important when choosing one. Air filters come in a variety of sizes. The size of your filter will depend on the size of your room; obviously, a smaller room will need a smaller filter, while a larger room will need a bigger one. It’s also essential to ensure that your filter is correctly sized for your HVAC system.  It will work less effectively if it’s too big or too small.

 MERV Rating

When shopping for an air filter, you’ll notice that they all have a MERV rating. This stand for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. MERV ratings range from 1-20, with 1 being the lowest and 20 being the highest efficiency. People with allergies and asthma will want to look for air filters with a MERV rating of 11 at least. This will trap smaller airborne particles like dust mites, mold spores, and smoke particles. However, it’s important to note that filters with higher MERV ratings often come with a higher price tag.

Filter Replacement Schedule

Another factor to consider when choosing an air filter is how often you need to replace it. The type and size of your air filter will determine how often you should replace it. The more people live in or work in an office with less space, the greater their need for cleaner air. Most filters will need to be replaced every 1-3 months. However, some may need to be replaced more (or less) frequently than that.

The Closing Thoughts

Now that you know the crucial factors to consider when choosing an air filter for your home, you can decide which type of air filter will work best for you and your family. By improving the air quality in your home or office, you can help reduce symptoms associated with allergies and asthma. A good air filter will run quietly and efficiently, making it a great addition to any home. Not only will it help to keep the air clean and healthy, but it can also save you money on your energy bills.

Do some research to find the best deal on an air purifier or allergy-friendly air filters for your furnace or central AC unit, and also talk to your doctor about other ways to manage your allergies and asthma.