Page 17 Fall Home Improvement 2026 Lincoln Daily News Tripplett also explained the “MERV rating” for filters. “MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value and is a rating scale for how effectively an air filter captures particles of different sizes,” he wrote. Air filters are usually rated on a MERV scale of 1-16. Tripplett shared that they recommend staying between 8 and 11. At this rating, most common particulates are going to be captured. This can include things such as “dust, lint, mold spores, pet dander, dust mite debris, auto emissions, and lead dust.” Anything above 11, however, tends to be too fine. These air filters capture particles that are very fine and can lead to a clogged filter as quickly as one week. Luckily for those residing in Logan County, Bret Tripplett Heating and Cooling sells air filters, and they have an extensive list. Tripplett shared that they have “an almost endless list of suppliers.” He shared that not only would they be happy to come out and inspect an HVAC unit, but they also replace air filters for some of their customers as well and would be happy to do so for any of them. In addition to filters, there are things that people can do to help keep the quality of the air in their homes better throughout the winter. Tripplett shared three things that, if people did not do, could increase the air quality. The first is to limit the use of wood-burning stoves or fireplaces. The second was to ensure you are not letting your car run idly in your garage if it is attached to your house. The third thing is overusing candles or powdered air fresheners. Tripplett wrote that all these things will accumulate in houses that do not have good ventilation during the winter months. Additionally, he encouraged people to open their windows a bit on days that are not so bitterly cold to help get some fresh air in. When asked about what things people do that negatively impact their air quality that they may not think about, candles and air fresheners were something that Tripplett pointed out specifically. According to Tripplett “they can release soot, volatile organic compounds, formaldehyde, lead, and phthalates into the air.” He also wrote that some of these particles may be too small for a HVAC filter to catch. One additional thing Tripplett pointed out was the use of humidifiers. He referred to it as “an excellent first step in correcting your indoor air quality.” Tripplett pointed out that they are willing to work with people to address their specific needs since each person and home is different. He shared that they rent out an air scrubber that also eliminates odors. The air quality of your home is certainly something that can be easy to overlook, especially in the winter months. With some regular preventative maintenance, homes can retain air quality over the winter months.. [Matt Boutcher]
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