When it comes to allergies, the best air conditioner filter is one with a MERV rating of 11 or higher. This type of filter can effectively eliminate up to 75% of allergens circulating in the home. For even better protection, filters rated 17 or higher can block out microscopic organisms and allergens that are very small. The Institute of Medicine has said that air purifiers are likely to be useful in some situations to reduce allergy or asthma symptoms, but that air cleaning is not always consistent and highly effective.
For those looking for a more cost-effective option, a washable oven filter like the True Blue option can be rinsed and reused for up to a year. MERV 1 filters only capture particles larger than 10 microns in size, while MERV 16 filters can capture particles as small as 0.30 to 1 micron in size. The Arm & Hammer Max Allergen air conditioner filter is designed to filter indoor air allergens, such as pollen, pet dander and common dust. It also has a smartphone app that allows you to check the status of your filter and see if it needs to be replaced.
For larger homes up to 6,000 square feet in size, a whole-house humidifier can be installed inside the HVAC ducts to treat the entire home. If this is an option you are considering, we recommend the Nordic Pure MERV 12 filter as it often costs less than other options. Additionally, two other filters are also OK. Allergens such as pollen and very fine particles are best left in the hands of air conditioning filters specifically designed to filter such allergens from the air.
Clogging increases the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet sides, which can cause the filter pleats to flatten or the filter frame to bend. When looking for the best oven filters, Erica considered the most popular filters from leading brands such as 3M Filtrete and Honeywell Home. Common materials used for oven filter material include fiberglass, cotton, polyester, and other synthetic fibers. If you or someone in your household has allergy problems, it is recommended that you look for a filter with a MERV rating of 17 or higher.
Filters capable of removing most contaminants, allergens, and other respiratory irritants from the air are generally more expensive and are only found with disposable filters. If you don't want to suffer from sneezing attacks, runny nose, and watery eyes, then an allergen filter is a great solution. When choosing an air conditioner filter for your home, it's important to consider the MERV rating (minimum efficiency report value).
