Can HVAC Filters Kill Coronavirus?

With the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping the world, there’s a lot of well-intended health information—and misinformation—going around. As you’re no doubt aware, many people have turned to hoarding toilet paper, sanitizers and food as a way to cut down on their trips to the store. Many states have issued shelter-in-place orders and have required the use of face masks in public.

In our efforts to stay healthy and protect our workers and customers, we recently learned that many people want to know whether HVAC filters can kill coronavirus in Mesa, AZ. Here’s what you need to know about the virus and whether your HVAC system can kill it for you.

What is coronavirus and how is it transmitted?

COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, is a highly transmissible virus that’s spread through airborne droplets, or by touching infected surfaces and then touching your face. In other words, if an infected person coughs or sneezes and those droplets make it to your eyes, nose or mouth somehow, you can be infected, too.

The virus creates an upper respiratory infection in some patients, which can be so severe as to be fatal. As scientists race to find mitigating factors and a reliable vaccine, they emphasize the importance of taking precautions to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

Many coronavirus patients are asymptomatic, meaning that they may have the virus but they don’t show any of the common symptoms, like fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, a dry cough and shortness of breath. They are totally unaware that they are sick and at risk of infecting others. That means they may not take measures like wearing a face mask or staying home as much as someone who is immunocompromised.

Can air purifiers and filters kill the virus?

Some people have been floating the idea that air filters, like HEPA filters, and air purifiers can kill the virus effectively. While it is true that HEPA filters are good at filtering out about 99 percent of what’s in the air, like bacteria, pollen, mold and dust, the coronavirus is much smaller and may not be trapped by the filter.

Additionally, the virus won’t be killed—it will simply live in the filter until the end of its natural lifespan, which can be over a week in some conditions. However, studies are showing that industrial air purifiers achieve better results, and there may be virus-catching filters available at some point in the near future.

If you’re concerned about your Mesa, AZ HVAC system’s ability to filter out and contain the COVID-19 virus, be sure to contact PlumbSmart Plumbing Heating and Air to talk about your options. While industrial air purifiers are more effective, they’re also more expensive. They may be out of reach for many families, but proper hygiene and exercising caution will help.

Update your HVAC system in Mesa, AZ

When you need to update or maintain your HVAC, call PlumbSmart Plumbing Heating and Air. We continue to operate as an essential business during the coronavirus pandemic. Reach out to us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.