When it comes to choosing the best HVAC air filter for homes with pets, there are a few key factors you'll want to keep in mind. Nearly 40% of households own a dog. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, over 25% of households own a cat. Hence, if you've been having trouble finding a suitable air filter for your pet-filled home, you're certainly not alone.
First, it's essential to select a filter with a high minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating, as this will ensure that it is capable of trapping a wide range of airborne particles, including pet dander and other common allergens.
Additionally, you'll want to choose an air filter that is specifically designed to handle the unique challenges of homes with pets, such as frequent filter changes and heavy pet traffic.
By taking the time to carefully consider your options, you can ensure that you choose an HVAC air filter that will keep your home's air clean and healthy for both you and your pets. Need help choosing the best HVAC air filter for your pet-filled home? Don't worry, the Airzey team has got you covered.
What Are HVAC Filters?
HVAC air filters are a critical component of any home's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. HVAC filters are designed to remove airborne particles, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen, from the air circulating through the HVAC system. This helps to improve the air quality in your home, making it healthier and more comfortable for your family members.
HVAC air filters are typically made of synthetic or natural fibers, and they come in a wide range of sizes and efficiency ratings. The most effective filters have a high minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating, which indicates their ability to trap a wide range of airborne particles.
Kinds Of HVAC Filters
There are many different types of air filters you can use for your home's HVAC system. It's important to know the different kinds of HVAC filters so that you can determine which filters will work best for homes with pets. Sometimes, different types of pets require different types of air purifiers, so you'll want to make sure you're choosing the right filter.
MERV 13 Filters
MERV-13 filters are highly effective air filters designed to improve indoor air quality. With their ability to capture and trap a wide range of airborne particles, these filters are crucial in maintaining cleaner and healthier environments. The acronym MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, and a rating of 13 indicates the filter's efficiency in removing small particles, including common allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. By employing electrostatically charged fibers and a dense filter media, MERV-13 filters can effectively trap particles as small as 0.3 microns in size, ensuring cleaner air for occupants. These filters are particularly useful for individuals with respiratory conditions or allergies, as they help reduce exposure to irritants and improve overall indoor air quality. Whether in residential or commercial settings, MERV-13 filters provide an essential line of defense against airborne pollutants, promoting a healthier and more comfortable living and working environment.
Airzey offers a variety of sizes to fit your need.
The MERV-13 filters more pollutants and allergens while maintaining good airflow.
What to Consider When Purchasing Pet-Friendly Filters
When purchasing pet-friendly air filters, there are a few important factors you're going to want to consider.
MERV Rating
MERV rating is the first thing you should look at when purchasing an air filter that will best suit your needs as a pet owner. An air filter's MERV rating indicates the extent to which the filter will do an efficient job removing dust from the room it's installed in.
Size
Your filter size depends on the size of your HVAC system as a whole. It needs to be able to fit properly, so keep that in mind as you're shopping around. If you need help choosing the right size, you can always consult a professional.
Price
Most air filters are relatively inexpensive, which is great because you shouldn't have to break the bank in order to protect your home from dust, pollen, and pet dander. Compare the prices between different air filters, and choose the filter that will best suit your needs.
Maintenance
Air filter maintenance is very important. You'll want to regularly replace your air filter in order to ensure it is performing at maximum efficiency. Some air filters will require more regular maintenance than others, such as furnace filters, which need to be cleaned quite often. Also, disposable air filters need to be replaced more often than non-disposable air filters.
Best Filters for Pet-Owner's Homes
When choosing the best air filter for your pet-filled home, there are a number of different things you're going to want to take into consideration. Let's go over some of the most highly rated options for pet-friendly air filters below.
Flat Panel Fiberglass Furnace Filters
Fiberglass air filters are always a great choice because they are inexpensive and easy to use. They are also semi-disposable, which adds to their convenience. However, this also means you will need to replace fiberglass furnace filters more frequently. Regardless of this, fiberglass filters are efficient at keeping lint and debris out of your home's heating system for up to three months.
According to The Comfort Academy, the main downside of fiberglass furnace filters is that they are only capable of preventing 80% of particles that are 50 microns or larger from getting into your home's air conditioner or furnace system. Despite this, fiberglass furnace filters are extremely pet-friendly. They do an excellent job of removing pet dander and stray hair.
Pleated Furnace Filters
Pleated furnace filters, especially those with a MERV rating above 8, are sure to do an efficient job of ridding the air in your home of pet dander and other particles. According to Ceiling Fans HQ, a good pleated furnace filter will typically have a MERV rating between 13 and 15. This type of filter can effectively remove up to 85% of large particles and about half of all small particles from the air. It's also worth mentioning that pleated furnace air filtration systems are more effective at trapping particles and pet dander than fiberglass air filtration systems.
Disposable and Permanent Electrostatic Filters
Electrostatic filters — both disposable and permanent — feature an electrostatic charge, which attracts small amounts of debris and dirt. This type of air filter will certainly ensure clean airflow throughout your home, even if you have a lot of pets. This type of air filter is actually recommended for homeowners with pets, as it can help filter out particular smells such as cat litter.
Activated Carbon Furnace Filters
Activated carbon furnace filters work by drawing odors from the environment surrounding them, trapping them within their carbon materials. For this reason, activated carbon furnace filters are incredibly effective when it comes to removing pet smells from your home. Naturally, these filters can be used alone or in tandem with other odor-removal devices. According to Specialty Air, furnace filters typically have a lifespan of up to three months, even in homes where pets are present.
MERV-13 Filters
These filters capture very small particles like bacteria in addition to the larger dust, pet dander, pollen, and smoke particles. Airzey’s Filters utilizes a Nanofiber Technology allowing them to capture small particles without restricting airflow.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I know if my air filter is good?
You will know if you have chosen a good air filter by checking its MERV rating. A top-notch air filter will generally have a MERV rating between 13 and 15, but some filters advertise even higher MERV ratings. If you or any of your family members suffer from allergies, it's a good idea to invest in an air filter with a MERV rating of 11 or more.
What Are The Benefits Of A Pet?
A pet is a wonderful addition to any household and family. People with pets generally feel less stressed out due to the pet's companionship, and some may feel a sense of gratification from taking care of something besides themselves. Studies have shown that interacting with pets can reduce high blood pressure and stress. Pets can also provide a sense of security, allowing you to sleep soundly in your home.
What are the dangers of dander and fur?
Dander and fur can pose some potential dangers to those who are allergic to animals like cats and dogs. Dander, which is a mixture of dead skin cells and proteins, can cause allergic reactions in some people, leading to symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. Pet fur can trap dander and other allergens, making it easier for these substances to be inhaled.
What is an air filter?
The main function of an HVAC air filter is to prevent dust, dander, pet hair, and other particles from entering the HVAC system through its vents. Air filters work by trapping the particles in the air as it passes through the filter, allowing clean air to pass through.
What are the benefits of monthly filter changes?
Changing your air filter monthly can be very beneficial for your health, as it will surely improve your home's indoor air quality. A clogged or dirty filter can restrict airflow in your home, causing your HVAC system to work harder and use more energy. Replacing your air filter frequently will ensure that your HVAC system is running efficiently.
What are your concerns?
It can be difficult to determine which air filters are best suited for your specific needs as a homeowner with pets. There are plenty of factors to consider, but Airzey is here to help you out.
Final Thoughts
In order to properly take care of your pets, you must first take proper care of yourself. If you have allergies or other types of respiratory problems, dealing with pet fur and dander can be challenging. However, with the right HVAC filtration system, you'll find that loving your pet has never been easier. Want to learn more? Check out Airzey's quality air filtration products.
