Texas Mold Assessment Consultant Practice Exam

According to the EPA guidelines, what minimum MERV rating should HVAC filters have during mold remediation in schools?

1. Five

2. Six

3. Eight

4. Ten

The correct answer is: Eight

The minimum MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating recommended by the EPA for HVAC filters during mold remediation in schools is crucial for ensuring effective filtration of airborne particles, including mold spores. A MERV rating of eight is beneficial because it means the filter is capable of capturing particles in the range of 3 to 10 microns, which includes many common allergens and mold spores. Filters with a MERV rating of eight can trap a significant amount of mold spores and other particulates, thereby improving indoor air quality and reducing the likelihood of mold spread during remediation efforts. This is particularly important in schools, where the health of students and staff is a priority. Filters with ratings lower than eight may not be sufficient to mitigate mold exposure effectively. They may allow larger amounts of spores to pass through, thus failing to protect the indoor environment adequately during the remediation process. Higher ratings could outperform an eight in terms of efficiency, but they are not mandated minimums, making eight the correct choice in this context.