High-efficiency Air Cleaners
High-efficiency Air Cleaners | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Sewanee
Feel the mountain-fresh difference inside your Sewanee home with HEP’s high-efficiency air cleaners, seamlessly paired with your heating and cooling system to remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles. From pollen swirling in the spring breeze to fireplace soot in winter, our advanced filtration and balanced airflow solutions keep every room crisp, clean, and perfectly conditioned—so you can breathe easy and live comfortably all year long.
Backed by locally based technicians who know the Plateau’s unique climate, HEP designs, installs, and maintains custom setups that elevate ventilation and air quality while trimming energy costs. Whether you’re remodeling, combating allergies, or simply upgrading peace of mind, schedule a free in-home assessment today and discover how effortless healthy air can be.
FAQs
What exactly is a high-efficiency air cleaner and how does it benefit homes in Sewanee?
A high-efficiency air cleaner is an add-on or stand-alone filtration unit that captures much smaller particles than the standard 1-inch HVAC filter. Models rated MERV-13 to HEPA can trap 90–99.97 % of dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, bacteria, and even some viruses. In Sewanee, where seasonal pollen, mountain humidity, and occasional wildfire smoke can degrade air quality, these systems help reduce allergy and asthma symptoms, keep ductwork cleaner, and create a noticeably fresher indoor environment.
Can a high-efficiency air cleaner be installed on my existing heating and air-conditioning system?
Yes. Most whole-home air cleaners are designed to fit into the return-air plenum of a conventional forced-air furnace or heat-pump system. Our technicians measure the available space, verify airflow requirements, and select a cabinet size that matches your equipment. For homes without ductwork, we also offer compact in-room HEPA units. In either case, installation typically takes less than half a day and does not require major modifications.
What contaminants will the system remove and what will it not remove?
High-efficiency media or HEPA filters remove fine particulates such as dust, pollen, smoke, pet dander, mold spores, and most bacteria. When paired with optional activated-carbon stages or photocatalytic oxidation, they also reduce common household odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They do not control excess humidity (a separate dehumidifier is needed) and they cannot neutralize carbon monoxide or radon, which require dedicated detectors and mitigation strategies.
How often do filters need to be changed and what does maintenance cost?
For a MERV-13 or MERV-16 media filter, expect to replace the cartridge every 6–12 months, depending on run time and indoor conditions. HEPA canisters typically last 2–3 years but require an annual pre-filter change. Replacement media range from $40 (MERV-13) to $200 (HEPA canister). During our annual Comfort & Air Quality Tune-Up, we inspect the cabinet, replace filters, sanitize the blower compartment, and verify airflow—all for about the same cost as a standard HVAC service visit.
Will a high-efficiency air cleaner increase my energy bills?
Properly matched air cleaners have a negligible impact on energy use. While high-density filters create more resistance, we calibrate blower speed or static-pressure settings to maintain correct airflow. In many homes, cleaner coils and ducts actually improve HVAC efficiency by 5–10 % because dust buildup no longer insulates heat-transfer surfaces. The net effect is often an energy bill that stays the same—or even falls slightly—while indoor air quality rises dramatically.
Is a high-efficiency air cleaner a good investment for Sewanee’s climate?
Absolutely. Sewanee experiences heavy spring pollen, muggy summers, and greater use of wood-burning stoves in winter—all of which elevate indoor particle levels. Installing a high-efficiency air cleaner can cut airborne allergens by more than half, reduce household dusting, and protect HVAC components, extending equipment life. Most homeowners recoup the cost through lower maintenance, fewer doctor visits for allergy flare-ups, and higher property value within 3–5 years.