Filtration Presented by Parker
A Legacy of Filtration
For over 50 years, Parker has been improving the quality of air all around the world with products that define excellence. Parker’s HVAC Filtration Division employs the latest innovative and patented technologies, proprietary materials, and testing methods to engineer filters that outperform and outlast similar products on the market.
Reducing Airborne Transmission with HVAC Air Filters
Maintaining healthier breathable air
Keeping facilities, workers, and families safe during a global epidemic requires various strategies that can reduce the spread of disease. Parker encourages everyone to follow updated information and guidance issued by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) for this rapidly evolving situation.
HVAC filters can reduce but not eliminate the threat of infection. The coronavirus and the particulate it travels on is very small in size, and can range from sub-micron (less than 1.0 micron in size) and larger. High efficiency filters on the market today can trap particulate sizes that are likely to remain in air. Selecting the right filter can reduce risk while improving the quality of indoor air.
Filtration Guidance from the experts
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has developed proactive guidance for building industry professionals to help address the ongoing concerns of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Please visit www.ashrae.org to access the latest response resources from ASHRAE and other leading organizations with respect to the operation and maintenance of HVAC systems.
Recommended Parker filters for reducing airborne risk
Parker HVAC filters are manufactured in the U.S. and engineered to the highest standards of design, quality, and assembly. When selecting a filter to combat the threat of airborne transmission, we suggest a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating of 13 to 16. The higher the value, the better the filter will be at capturing small particles. Our Sub-HEPA, HEPA, and ULPA filters provide the highest level of protection (up to 99.999% on 0.12 microns). Our MERV 16 rated filters provide 90% and higher efficiencies, capturing airborne particles that are the size of viruses.
The following high-efficiency filters are designed for commercial use. All of them meet Leadership in Energy Design (LEED) requirements. They can be ordered through our global network of Dealers and Distributors by visiting www.parker.com/hvac.
HEPA Filters
Parker MICROGUARD LR
- 12″ Sub-HEPA Filters
- 98.5% efficiency on 0.3 micron particulate
- Proprietary E-Plate embossed media technology
Parker MICROGUARD & MICROPLEAT
- HEPA Filters: 99.7% and higher on 0.3 micron particulate
- ULPA Filters: 99.999% and higher on 0.12 micron particulate
- Best solution for hospitals, analytical labs, and clean rooms
- Engineered solutions for multiple applications
MERV Rating Performance & Filter Chart
MERV 13: 40-50% on 0.3 to 0.4 micron particulate, greater than 85% on 1.0 to 3.0 micron particulate
MERV 15: 80-90% on 0.3 to 0.4 micron particulate, greater than 95% on 1.0 to 3.0 micron particulate
MERV 14: 60-70% on 0.3 to 0.4 micron particulate, greater than 90% on 1.0 to 3.0 micron particulate
MERV 16: 90% on 0.3 to 0.4 micron particulate, greater than 95% on 1.0 to 3.0 micron particulate
Parker Airguard® VARI+PLUS® and Purolator SERVA-Cell® VA
MERV 16 and MERV 14
- 4-V mini-pleat filter
- Non-woven fiberglass media
Parker Airguard® Advantage®
2″ Mini-Pleat Filters (MERV 16 and MERV 14)
- Captures viruses, mold spores, and bacteria from 0.5 to 1 microns
- Best solution for hospitals, analytical labs, and clean rooms
Parker Purolator® DEFIANT® Cell
Rigid Filters (MERV 15)
- 12″ depth
- Non-woven media with electrostatic enhancement
Parker Purolator® DEFIANT®
Bag Filters (MERV 15)
- 12″, 15″, 18″ depths
- Non-woven media with electrostatic enhancement
Parker LoadTECH®
Rigid Cell Filters (MERV 14)
- 4″ and 12″ sizes
- Proprietary E-Pleat® embossed media technology
Parker DP-Green and Purolator® Puro-Green®
Extended Surface Pleated Filters (MERV 13)
- 2″ depth
- 100% synthetic media resists moisture
- Heavy-duty beverages board frame
Air filter servicing and replacement
The importance of changing air filters regularly
Regular maintenance keeps HVAC equipment in top working condition so the parts last longer and the system works more efficiently. Changing an HVAC air filter on a recommended schedule will:
- Improve health and comfort
- Prevent disruptive breakdowns
- Reduce energy consumption
- Limit expensive repairs
Steps to replace an air filter
- Turn off the power for safety. Also, turn off any fans in the area at least 20 minutes prior to servicing a filter.
- Wear personal protective equipment (PPE): This includes a face mask, nitrile gloves, and shoe covers.
- Remove the old filter. Slide it out of the slot that holds it in place.
- Check the condition of the filter. Does it look clogged with dirt and dust? Many factors can impact how fast a filter will become clogged, shortening the life of the filter.
- Replace the filter. Immediately place the old filter into a plastic bag being careful not to shake or drop it. Sudden movements can cause microscopic particles to be released into the air. Twist or tie the bag shut and consider taping it to create a seal. Note: If the filter has a permanent frame, the media should be removed outside. Be sure to dispose of the old filter in an outdoor trash can.
- Insert the new filter right away. An arrow on the filter’s frame shows the direction that air should flow through the filter, which is always away from the return air duct and toward the air handler mechanism. When inserting the filter back in the housing, make sure that arrow points away from the return and toward the air handler. Write down the date you replaced the filter.
Upgrading a filter for better particle capture
A high-efficiency filter can help improve indoor air quality while capturing smaller particles. To help reduce the spread of viral airborne transmission, Parker suggests a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating of 13 to 16. Your HVAC contractor will know what types of air filters and accessories will work with your system and how they will affect its performance.
Important: Parker’s products can reduce airborne particulate in a controlled environment. They would not eliminate risk of exposure to airborne viruses but can be part of a comprehensive plan to help reduce that risk.
FAQ’s
Questions about COVID-19 and other airborne transmissions as they relate to Parker HVAC Filtration Products
Can the Coronavirus or other illnesses spread through an HVAC system?
The spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) mainly occurs through respiratory droplet transfer from person to-person within a close range of about six feet according to the CDC. The virus can also be transmitted on objects and surfaces that a contagious person may cough on, sneeze on, or touch. Pathogens can also travel on dust and dirt particles as those particles move through the air. Therefore, the potential for airborne transmission through an HVAC system exists.
Can HVAC filters protect people against the coronavirus?
HVAC filters can reduce but not eliminate the threat of infection. The coronavirus and the particulate it travels on is very small in size, and can range from submicron (less than 1.0 micron in size) and larger. High efficiency filters on the market today can trap particulate sizes that are likely to remain in air. Selecting the right filter can reduce risk while improving the quality of indoor air.
What type of air filter do you recommend for reducing the spread of coronavirus?
When selecting a filter to combat the threat of airborne transmission, you have to consider the level of filtration wanted versus effective system operation HEPA & ULPA filters provide the highest rate of effectiveness, but many HVAC systems would not ability to use them without extensive retrofit. We suggest a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating of 14 to 16 for most HVAC systems. Sub-HEPA, HEPA and ULPA Filters can be used where needed and for systems which can use them effectively.
Where systems cannot accommodate higher efficiency filters, MERV 13 filters can provide significant improvement in efficiency and can be easily installed in the majority of HVAC and residential units.
There are several filters in Parker’s line that can be used as part of an overall comprehensive strategy. We can assist you to determine which filter or filters would be the best choice for your application.
Can you give me some instructions on where to install an air filter in a commercial building to keep employees and occupants safe from coronavirus?
Our best recommendation is to visit the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) website. ASHRAE has developed proactive guidance for building industry professionals to help address the ongoing concerns of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Their website address is www.ashrae.org. There you can access the latest response resources from ASHRAE and other leading organizations with respect to the operation and maintenance of HVAC systems.
What is a MERV rating for an air filter?
MERV stands for “minimum efficiency reporting value.” It’s a rating system that was developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (or ASHRAE). MERV values range from 1 to 16. The higher the MERV value, the more efficient the filter will be at trapping airborne particles. When selecting a filter to combat the threat of airborne transmission, we suggest a MERV rating of 13 to 16.
Do you have an HVAC filter for residential applications?
Yes, we recommend Puro-Green or DP-Green MERV 13 filters for use in residential applications. Our MERV 13 high-efficiency rigid filters can be used in residential HVAC systems to achieve better indoor air quality without the need to retrofit systems.
How can I order a Parker air filter?
The best way to order a Parker filter is to contact your nearest Dealer or Distributor. Or Contact Parker here.
Does Parker have enough HVAC filters in stock to meet demand?
Many of our manufacturing facilities are working around the clock to produce a variety of products and solutions needed to support our customers and millions of users. At this time, there is no shortage of HVAC building air filters.
Do your antimicrobial filters kill COVID-19?
Antimicrobial media filters in the market are typically designed to reduce mold growth on media that is prevalent in certain systems or applications. We do not believe antimicrobial medias would provide any greater effectiveness in reducing the risk of COVID-19 beyond the filtration efficiency of removing contaminants from the air system.