High-efficiency Filtration
High-efficiency Filtration | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Kingston
Looking for a smarter way to stay comfortable in Kingston’s ever-changing climate? HEP’s high-efficiency filtration heating and air conditioning solutions capture even the smallest particulates while delivering whisper-quiet, energy-saving performance. Our expert technicians fine-tune each system to your home’s exact layout, so you enjoy steady temperatures, lower utility bills, and healthier air—all backed by friendly local service that’s there when you need it most.
Because true comfort goes beyond temperature, we focus on ventilation and air quality just as much as heating and cooling. Advanced ERV/HRV technology continuously refreshes stale indoor air, while hospital-grade filters strip away pollen, smoke, and pet dander before they reach your lungs. The result is a cleaner, safer living space where you can breathe deeply, sleep better, and feel the Kingston difference every day.
FAQs
What makes a high-efficiency air filter different from a standard filter?
High-efficiency filters—often rated MERV 13 or higher—use denser media that captures up to 98 % of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, including fine dust, pollen, mold spores, pet dander, and even some bacteria and viruses. Standard disposable filters (MERV 6–8) mainly trap larger debris to protect equipment, but they let many smaller contaminants pass through. Upgrading to a high-efficiency filter greatly improves indoor air quality while also protecting heat exchangers, blower motors, and evaporator coils from buildup.
Will a high-efficiency filter restrict airflow and increase my energy bills?
Modern high-efficiency filters are engineered with pleated or electrostatic media that maximizes surface area, so they can trap more particles without severely impeding airflow. When sized and installed correctly, any added resistance is minor—often just 0.1–0.2 in. w.c. higher than a standard filter. Proper system commissioning (checking static pressure and blower speed) ensures your furnace or air handler in Kingston runs efficiently. In many cases, the cleaner coils and ducts that result from better filtration actually reduce overall energy use.
How often should I change or clean a high-efficiency filter in Kingston’s climate?
Because Kingston experiences four distinct seasons—with summer humidity, spring pollen, and winter heating—filters see steady loading. We recommend inspecting the media every 30 days and replacing it every 3–4 months for 1-inch pleated filters, or every 6-12 months for 4- to 5-inch media cartridges. Homes with pets, smokers, recent renovations, or residents with allergies may need more frequent changes. Always follow the specific schedule printed by the filter manufacturer and have your HVAC technician note pressure drop readings at each maintenance visit.
What ventilation options can improve indoor air quality without wasting heating or cooling?
Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) are ideal for Kingston’s cold winters and humid summers. They bring in fresh outdoor air while transferring heat (and, in the case of ERVs, moisture) between the outgoing stale air and incoming fresh airstreams. This recovers 60–80 % of the energy that would otherwise be lost, providing constant, balanced ventilation without a big utility penalty. HRVs are best for predominantly heating climates, while ERVs help control humidity year-round.
Can high-efficiency filtration help with allergies and asthma?
Yes. By capturing fine particulate matter down to 0.3 microns, high-efficiency filters significantly reduce airborne allergens such as pollen, mold spores, and pet dander. They also lower concentrations of particulate pollution (PM2.5) that exacerbate asthma and other respiratory issues. When combined with source control (vacuuming, moisture management) and mechanical ventilation, studies show symptom relief and fewer medication needs for sensitive occupants. Always verify that the filter is properly sealed in its housing to prevent bypass.
How do I know if my existing HVAC system can handle an upgrade to high-efficiency filtration or an HRV/ERV?
Before any upgrade, a licensed HVAC professional should perform a static pressure test and ductwork evaluation. They’ll measure current pressure drop across the filter, supply, and return ducts, then model the added resistance of a higher-MERV filter or ventilation unit. If readings stay within the manufacturer’s limits (typically under 0.5 in. w.c. total external static), your blower can handle the change. If not, options include a larger filter cabinet, ECM blower retrofit, or minor duct modifications. During a visit, our Kingston technicians provide a written report and cost estimate so you can make an informed decision.