High-MERV Filtration
High-MERV Filtration | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Philadelphia
Breathe easier in Philadelphia’s rowhomes and high-rise condos with HEP’s high-MERV filtration solutions. Our advanced heating and cooling systems trap the city’s pollen, soot, and seasonal allergens with hospital-grade efficiency while keeping energy bills in check. From retrofitting historic brownstones to optimizing new construction, we design, install, and maintain custom setups that quietly scrub the air without sacrificing comfort or style.
Every visit begins with a complimentary air analysis, followed by clear recommendations to raise your home’s ventilation and air quality. Ask about smart thermostats, UV purification add-ons, and duct sealing for a complete indoor wellness package—backed by 24/7 local support and transparent, up-front pricing. Discover why Philadelphians trust HEP to turn their living spaces into fresh-air retreats, no matter what Broad Street traffic or Delaware River humidity throws their way.
FAQs
What is a high-MERV filter and why is it important for my Philadelphia home?
MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) is a 1–20 scale that rates how effectively an air filter captures particles between 0.3–10 microns. A “high-MERV” filter is generally rated MERV 13–16 and can trap fine dust, pollen, mold spores, smoke, and many bacteria and viruses. In a dense urban environment like Philadelphia—where outdoor pollution, traffic emissions, and seasonal allergens are common—a high-MERV filter helps keep indoor air cleaner, protects your HVAC equipment from buildup, and can improve respiratory comfort for occupants with asthma or allergies.
How does Philadelphia’s climate and outdoor air quality affect my decision to upgrade to a high-MERV filtration system?
Philadelphia experiences hot, humid summers, cold winters, and frequent temperature swings in spring and fall. These conditions promote both high pollen counts and increased time indoors, meaning pollutants accumulate quickly. The city also sits in an ozone-and fine-particle non-attainment area, so outdoor air can carry soot, exhaust, and industrial emissions. A high-MERV filter coupled with balanced ventilation (ERV or HRV) allows you to bring in fresh air while removing the majority of airborne contaminants that typically peak during the region’s muggy summers and heating-season inversions.
Will a high-MERV filter reduce allergens, viruses, and other contaminants inside my house?
Yes—when properly installed and maintained, a MERV 13–16 filter can capture up to 90–98% of common residential irritants, including ragweed pollen, pet dander, mold spores, smoke particles, and many airborne bacteria. Filters rated MERV 16 or paired with UV-C or HEPA bypass modules can also remove a significant portion of virus-laden aerosols (down to 0.3 µm). Keep in mind that filtration is only one part of indoor air quality; combining high-MERV filtration with source control (no smoking, good housekeeping) and adequate ventilation delivers the best overall results.
Can any existing HVAC system handle a high-MERV filter, or will I need modifications?
Not every furnace, air handler, or duct system is designed for the increased static pressure of a high-MERV filter. Before upgrading, an HVAC professional should measure your equipment’s external static pressure and blower capacity. Common solutions include: (1) upsizing the filter cabinet to increase surface area, (2) installing a high-performance ECM blower motor, or (3) adding a dedicated MERV 13–16 media cabinet on the return side. In many Philadelphia rowhomes and older properties with tight mechanical rooms, a low-pressure-drop pleated filter or HEPA bypass unit can achieve high efficiency without overworking the system.
How often should I replace or service high-MERV filters and what does maintenance involve?
Because high-MERV filters load faster, inspect them monthly for the first season; most homes need replacement every 3 months for MERV 13 and every 6 months for deeper-pleat MERV 16 media, but highly trafficked or pet-friendly households may need more frequent changes. Maintenance steps include: (1) turning off the HVAC system, (2) removing the old filter and checking for bypass gaps, (3) vacuuming or wiping the filter rack, and (4) inserting the new filter with airflow arrows pointing toward the blower. Keep a log of dates and consider setting calendar reminders—consistent replacement prevents airflow restriction, energy waste, and premature blower wear.
Does installing a high-MERV filtration system increase my energy bills and what can be done to minimize costs?
A high-MERV filter typically raises static pressure, causing the blower to work harder and potentially use more electricity. However, the cost increase is often modest—2–6% on average—when the system is properly sized and maintained. To keep operating costs in check: (1) choose low-pressure-drop pleated media, (2) upgrade to a variable-speed ECM blower, which is standard in many newer Philadelphia HVAC installations, (3) seal duct leaks to improve overall efficiency, and (4) change filters on schedule so they don’t become clogged. Many homeowners find that the health benefits and reduced dusting offset the small rise in energy use.