Air filters are given a rating based on how effective they are at filtering particles out of the air.  The larger the particle, the easier it is to remove them from the air. 

Our filter system starts with a 1" MERV 8 filter.  It can remove the majority of the dust, pollen fiber, and pet dander that  many people are allergic to. 

Our next filter is a 2" MERV 11 filter.  It can remove the majority of the mold spores, auto emissions, pet dander, and some bacteria and larger smoke particles.

Our next filter is a Pleated Carbon Filter.  The woven carbon mat is designed to remove odors, aerosols, and VOC's from the air.  It is effective at removing household odors, cooking odors, and some pet odors.

When conditions get really bad outside, it is time for our "Rescue Set"  A MERV 15 Mini-Pleat particle filter and an Activated Carbon Filter.  We chose these filters specifically to remove the smoke from the air inside the home.  In the summer there is smoke from the wildfires, and in the winter there is smoke from woodstoves and outdoor boilers.

A MERV 15 filter is what they use for Hospital Inpatient care areas. The MERV 15 filer is also better than what is use in smoking lounges.  This filter will remove 98% of all particles from .30 to 1.0 pm particle size.

The Fairbanks North Star Borough is currently measuring pm 2.5.  A MERV 11 filter is effective at  removing a lot of the particles at that level, and a MERV 15 will remove virtually all pm 2.5 particles.

A Standard set of replacement filters.  3- MERV 8, 1 MERV 11 and one Carbon.  This set lasts 6 months and costs $50.

A "Rescue Set".  1 MERV 15 and an Activated Carbon Filter.  This set will last for 6 months of hazardous outdoor conditions, or 1-1/2 to 2 years of normal conditions if the prefilter is changed on a regular basis.  The Rescue Set costs $95 and comes in a large zip-lock bag to keep the filters fresh and clean.