Last week we announced the rollout of LifeStyle HealthSmart, our proprietary program created in response to the COVID-19 crisis. In case you missed it, LifeStyle HealthSmart is a brand-new building package that aims to make the air inside LifeStyle homes as clean as possible. This is accomplished through a variety of measures, which we will explore in depth throughout the coming weeks.

Let’s get started. This week’s focus is on Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values, or MERV filters.

MERV 11 Filter with UV Light
An air filter’s MERV rating is the industry standard for determining its effectiveness. It measures the filter’s ability to stop particles and contaminants—like allergens, pet dander, mold spores, dust mites, and more—from passing through and negatively affecting the indoor air quality of your home.

MERV filters range from 1 to 20 depending on the size of particles the filter can capture. The lower the MERV rating, the poorer the filtration. Filters with a MERV rating of 16 – 20 are typically found in hospital and clinical settings.

LifeStyle Homes has chosen a MERV 11 filter at the air handler for our HealthSmart program. Our research indicates this rating will allow the MERV filter to work effectively—capturing about 95 percent of airborne particles—without impeding airflow and hindering the overall performance of the HVAC system.

The MERV filter is the first line of defense against unwanted pollutants. As a second line of defense, a germicidal ultraviolet (UV) light will also be installed at the air handler of LifeStyle HealthSmart homes. The UV light kills organic growths—such as bacteria and viruses—to further bolster the cleanliness of indoor air.

Proper Maintenance is Key
Like many items, proper maintenance is key. Over time, the above-mentioned particles and contaminates will become trapped in the filter, decreasing its performance level and bogging down your home’s air-conditioning system. That said, it important to replace your MERV 11 filter every few months to ensure you are fully reaping its benefits.

To explore this feature and more that comprise the brand-new LifeStyle HealthSmart program, please take a look at our comprehensive features. And as always, give us a call at (321) 727-8188 ext. 2 with any questions on building a LifeStyle HealthSmart home.