The coronavirus pandemic created a wide range of shortages, from coins to pepperoni. The HVAC industry hasn’t been spared, with manufacturers and contractors reporting a lack of equipment, UV lights, and other products. Now, HVAC filters are emerging as a crucial element in the efforts to reopen buildings such as malls and schools. The heightened and unexpected demand creates questions about supply.
In some cases, governments are mandating filter upgrades. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo at one point said all malls in his state must install HEPA filters before allowing in the public. Cuomo revised the rule so that shopping malls of 800,000 square feet or more must have filters with MERV 13 ratings or better. If a property’s HVAC operation met other “enhanced” protective criteria, then MERV 11 filters could suffice. Even without mandates, guidelines for re-opening buildings often include filter upgrades. Many industries face supply issues right now, but some filter manufacturers say their industry is ready. Mike Rimrodt, vice president of marketing at Aprilaire, said his firm is prepared to meet this demand.