A COVID-19 Update

A letter from our President & CEO

Dear Valued Customer,
 

With the global concern surrounding the coronavirus outbreak, and in response to recent inquiries from our customers, I wish to share information regarding our efforts to take preventative measures to stop the potential spread of any illnesses across our distribution centers and offices to ensure that you, our employees, and the community we live in remain safe and healthy.
 

Our thoughts are with those of you who have been affected by the virus. The health and wellness of our associates and customers is our top priority, and we are monitoring this situation closely. We have developed action and response protocols to maintain a safe environment, and we are following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and other public health organizations.
 

Many of you have asked about our ability to continue to provide you with air filtration products to keep your employees and customers safe.
 

  • We are closely monitoring our supply chain and taking steps to enable an uninterrupted flow of material into our distribution centers. Our current inventory is strong, and we are monitoring levels closely to provide access to the products you need.
  • In addition to Austin Air Products, Pure Air HEPA Systems, and germicidal Fresh Aire-UV ultraviolet lights, we have recently added a new comprehensive line of high efficiency air purification products manufactured by RGF Environmental.
  • Availability of high capacity air purification solutions and HEPA filtration products are limited. We are proactively working with our current suppliers and pursuing new suppliers to maximize access to this limited supply. If you anticipate a need for these products, please let us know as soon as possible.
  • Our website and customer service teams are aware of our inventory levels so we can give you the most up to date information in this rapidly changing environment.
  • We have multiple stand alone HEPA filtration units operating 24/7 in our homes and offices to minimize risk of airborne pathogens.


As always, I am grateful for your business. Please reach out if you have any questions about specific requirements or needs to upgrade your air filtration. Together we will make it through this unprecedented situation.
 

Sincerely,
 

Julie Smith
President 

COVID-19 Filter FAQ

Do you supply hospitals?

Yes. If you are looking for UV lights, replacement HEPA filters, new HEPA modules, portable HEPA filtration units, replacement media for donated fabric masks, or other filtration products, please contact us directly. 

Do you have replacement filters for DIY fabric face masks?

Yes, we do. You can find small quantities here. They are MERV 15 (95%), not N95-equivalent. 


If you are a healthcare provider, please contact us directly to inquire about higher ratings and larger quantities. Thank you! 

How can I compare filters for the coronavirus?

Look for the % efficiency rating in the 0.1 to 0.3 micron range. A higher percentage is better. 

What MERV rating do I need to capture coronavirus?

MERV 13 will capture some virus, bacteria, cough and sneeze droplets. 


Isn't there something better?

Yes, MERV 16 and true medical HEPAs will capture most individual virus particles. However, these are specialized, high performance filters designed for medical or other high-purity applications, and are usually not compatible with home and office HVAC systems. Check your owner's manual for advice about the highest MERV rating or % efficiency your unit is built to handle. 

Can I purchase a 1" residential HEPA filter?

This is uncommon and generally not recommended. A true medical grade HEPA would restrict the airflow far too much for a home air return. Instead, look for a return filter rated MERV 13 - this will capture microscopic sneeze and cough mist (in addition to everyday allergens and bacteria). If you want medical-grade air filtration in your home to protect vulnerable family members, you may want to consider an Austin Air HEPA air purifier. 

Can I make face mask filters out of pleated filters?

We don't recommend this. The handling will damage the media and leave tiny holes and weak spots. But if you insist... 


MERV 13 filters will provide some protection against airborne sneeze mist, and dust. Do not steam, iron, spray, or otherwise treat the filter media! This will remove the electrostatic charge, which is important for capturing small charged particles like viruses.