Filter Changes to Protect Against COVID-19

A lot has been made of AHSRAE’s statement that MERV 13 filters are efficient at capturing airborne viruses.  A lot of maintenance teams and superintendents are choosing to switch to MERV 13 filters to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

However, the key to preventing indoor COVID-19 spread may be ventilation, not more efficient filtration. 

Most intake filters for HVAC systems are pulling clean air from rooftops and similar low-traffic areas, where it is highly unlikely to contain COVID-19 particles.

High-traffic areas are a much more significant risk. By ventilating those areas well, you can remove COVID-19 particulate more quickly, reducing the concentration in your facility and protecting from spread.

That is why it is important to diligently change your HVAC filters, regardless of efficiency.  A clogged filter will constrict airflow and make it more difficult for your fan to add sufficient fresh air.  Operating with clogged filters for long enough can cause damage and even hardware failure.

Contact your HVAC technician and schedule regular filter changes. For most HVAC systems, a MERV 8 Pleated Air Filter provides an ideal balance between airflow and protecting your equipment. Changing these filters regularly and diligently will help ensure your equipment is operating well, and your facility is well-ventilated to protect against COVID-19.