Understanding Air Filtration in Commercial & Multi-Unit Buildings: Odors, Smoke, Allergens, and the Right MERV Ratings
Indoor air quality is a major concern for commercial facilities, condominium corporations, and multi-residential buildings, especially as Alberta continues to experience periods of heavy smoke, airborne pollutants, and seasonal allergens. Effective filtration is essential for protecting occupant health, ensuring HVAC efficiency, and maintaining a clean mechanical environment.
To make informed decisions, facility managers must understand how different filter types and MERV ratings perform — and how they address challenges like odors, wildfire smoke, pet dander, and airborne contaminants.
Common Filter Types Used in Commercial and Multi-Unit HVAC Systems
1. Fiberglass Filters
A low-cost option used in older or low-demand systems. They capture only large particles and offer minimal protection for air quality.
Typical MERV Rating: 1–4
Best for: Basic equipment protection only.
2. Pleated Filters
A step up in performance, pleated filters capture smaller particulates and improve overall IAQ. Common in multi-unit residential and light commercial applications.
Typical MERV Rating: 5–8
Best for: General particulate control.
3. HEPA Filters
High-Efficiency Particulate Air filters can capture extremely fine particles — including smoke, allergens, bacteria, and microscopic debris. However, they require systems designed to handle the higher static pressure.
Typical MERV Rating Equivalent: 17–20
Best for: Maximum filtration in specialized or high-demand environments.
4. Activated Carbon Filters
Designed specifically to absorb odors, gases, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These filters are often combined with other filtration layers.
MERV Rating: Not applicable
Best for: Odor control, smoke mitigation, and chemical vapor adsorption.
Addressing Specific IAQ Challenges in Buildings
1. Eliminating Odors (Cooking, Common Areas, Waste Rooms, VOCs)
Odors in commercial and multi-unit buildings can travel quickly through shared ductwork.
Best solution: Activated carbon filtration
Activated carbon absorbs odorous molecules, reducing:
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cooking odors
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garbage room VOCs
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chemical smells
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stale or musty air
Carbon filters are often combined with pleated filters for particulate control.
2. Protecting Against Wildfire Smoke and Fine Particulates
Alberta’s wildfire seasons introduce extreme levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can easily penetrate buildings if filtration is inadequate.
Best solution: HEPA or high-MERV filters (MERV 13–16), optionally paired with activated carbon
Benefits include:
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trapping dangerous smoke particles
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improving indoor air safety
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reducing odor infiltration
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supporting occupants with respiratory sensitivities
Many commercial buildings upgrade to higher MERV ratings during wildfire season.
3. Managing Pet Dander in Multi-Residential Environments
Condo buildings, apartments, and pet-friendly commercial spaces benefit from enhanced filtration.
Best solution: HEPA or high-MERV pleated filters
These filters effectively capture:
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pet dander
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fur fibers
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airborne allergens
Adding an activated carbon layer further reduces pet-related odors.
Selecting the Right MERV Rating for Your Facility
Here is a quick guide for commercial and multi-unit buildings:
| MERV Rating | Best Use Cases |
|---|---|
| 1–4 | Minimal protection; basic filtration only |
| 5–8 | Standard commercial & multi-unit systems |
| 9–12 | Improved particulate control; offices, retail |
| 13–16 | Wildfire smoke; high-density buildings; enhanced IAQ |
| 17–20 (HEPA) | Hospitals, labs, specialty environments |
Always confirm system compatibility before upgrading filtration to avoid airflow restrictions or equipment strain.
Conclusion
Air filtration is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve indoor air quality, protect occupants, and maintain the performance of HVAC systems in commercial and multi-unit buildings. Whether dealing with odors, wildfire smoke, or allergens, choosing the right filter type and MERV rating ensures healthier environments and lower long-term mechanical costs.
A strategic filtration plan — combined with regular replacement and professional maintenance — is essential for any building prioritizing comfort, safety, and operational efficiency.
