Will increasing my filter efficiency help reduce the virus concentration?
The role of filter efficiency in removing particles, including viruses |
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Droplets or particles containing the virus will move through your HVAC systems, including the air filters. Increasing the filter efficiency to MERV 13 or higher can help capture a higher volume of pathogens.
MERV filters rated 13 and higher do a better job of removing particles in the 0.3 to 1 micron range, and many of the virus particles are in that size range.
It is also important to note that the virus is not one size—it may be attached to a larger droplet containing moisture and dust, which increases its likelihood of capture by the filter media.
Additional Resources
ASHRAE’s Position Document on Infectious Aerosols