HEPA is an acronym for High Efficiency Particulate Air filters. The main component of these filters is maintaining an allergen free and healthy home. A HEPA furnace filter will remove 99.97% of all particulates (pet dander, dust, pollen, etc.) that are .3 microns or larger. Typically, these air furnace filters are considered the most effective replacement furnace filter on the market. Most filters provide adequate air filtration from particulates in the air, however, HEPA filters will excel in providing a real protection to people that suffer from allergy and/or allergic asthma.

There are several steps consumers can take to protect themselves by replacing the air furnace filter with a HEPA approved allergy furnace filter. This is the first step to breathing purer air. In addition to replacing your central air filters with a HEPA filter we have some other good suggestions to help people suffering from asthma:

• Vacuum floors and carpets frequently, especially in the bedroom.

• Wear a dust mask when emptying a vacuum bag.

• Keep the environment simple. Solid floors such as wood and tile are better than carpeting, because carpet is breeding ground for dust mites.

• Use plastic, wood or metal window blinds instead of cloth drapes and curtains.

• Use plastic mattresses and pillow covers under the bed linens.

• Wash sheets weekly in hot water.

• Keep pets outdoors or out of the living area of the house as much as possible.

• Ban smoking in the home.

• Ventilate the home with open windows as often as possible. During seasons when pollen counts are high, close the windows and use an air conditioner.

• Use high-efficiency air furnace filters