- HEP Heat and Air
- High-MERV Filtration

High-MERV Filtration
High-MERV Filtration | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Bristol
Bristol’s salty breezes and lively urban streets can usher unwanted pollutants indoors, but HEP’s high-MERV filtration heating and air conditioning systems stop them at the door. Using hospital-grade filters and precision-balanced airflow, we trap up to 98 % of pollen, dust, and microscopic pathogens while delivering whisper-quiet comfort to every corner of your home or workplace. The result is ventilation and air quality you can sense with every breath—crisp, clean, and perfectly tempered for the shifting West Country seasons.
From the first free survey to yearly tune-ups, our local engineers handle everything: duct sealing, filter upgrades, smart thermostat integration, and real-time air monitoring that reports straight to your phone. Whether you’re renovating a Georgian terrace or fitting out a harbourside office, choose HEP to transform Bristol’s vibrant outside air into the healthiest air you’ve ever lived or worked in—then relax and breathe easy.
FAQs
What does the term “MERV” mean and why is it important for indoor air quality in Bristol?
MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) is a scale from 1-16 that rates how effectively an air filter traps particles of different sizes. The higher the MERV number, the smaller the particles the filter can capture. In Bristol, where damp maritime air, seasonal pollen, and urban traffic emissions all contribute to indoor pollutant loads, choosing a higher-MERV filter (typically 11-16) greatly improves the removal of dust, mould spores, fine particulate pollution (PM2.5), and even some bacteria and viruses, resulting in cleaner, healthier air throughout your home or workplace.
Which MERV rating is best for homes and businesses in Bristol’s climate?
For most residences, a MERV 11–13 filter provides an excellent balance between superior filtration and moderate airflow resistance. Homes with asthma sufferers, allergy concerns, or pets often benefit from MERV 13–14. Commercial buildings, medical practices, and facilities that require cleaner air generally opt for MERV 14–16. Our technicians assess your existing HVAC equipment, airflow capacity, and specific indoor-air-quality goals to recommend the optimal MERV rating for Bristol’s temperate, moisture-rich environment.
Will installing a high-MERV filter damage my HVAC system or raise my energy bills?
High-MERV filters are denser, so they can increase static pressure and make the blower work harder if the system is not properly sized. However, when we pair the right filter with the correct fan speed, duct size, and return air path, the impact on airflow and energy consumption is minimal. Our Bristol engineers test your system before and after installation to ensure pressure stays within manufacturer specifications, preserving performance and warranty while delivering superior air cleaning.
How often should I replace or clean my high-MERV filters?
Most high-MERV filters in Bristol homes need replacement every 3 months, but factors such as pets, renovation dust, or local traffic pollution can shorten that interval to 1-2 months. Commercial sites might require monthly changes, especially if operating for extended hours. We offer scheduled maintenance plans, visual pressure-drop indicators, and reminders to help you keep filters fresh, ensuring steady airflow and consistent air quality year-round.
Can high-MERV filtration really help with allergens, viruses, and city pollution in Bristol?
Yes. A MERV 13 filter captures at least 90 % of particles in the 1–3 µm range, which includes most pollen, mould spores, and pet dander. MERV 14–16 filters catch 95-99 % of particles down to 0.3 µm, the size of many viruses and diesel particulates common on Bristol’s busy roads. When combined with balanced ventilation and proper humidity control, high-MERV filtration significantly lowers airborne allergen loads, reduces infection risk, and removes fine particulate pollution that contributes to cardiovascular issues.
Do you need to modify my HVAC system to fit a high-MERV filter, and do you service the entire Bristol area?
In many cases the existing filter rack accommodates up to MERV 13. For MERV 14–16 or thicker media, we may install a deeper filter housing, upgrade blower settings, or add a return-air bypass to maintain airflow. Our team provides on-site assessments, retrofits, and full installation across Bristol and surrounding areas, including Clifton, Redland, Filton, and Keynsham. We also supply the filters themselves and offer ongoing maintenance contracts to keep your indoor air consistently clean.