Independent Performance Testing of Furnace Filters and HVAC Systems
Evidence-based insights to support product claims, innovation, and compliance for air filtration technologies. At Airmid Healthgroup, we specialise in third-party testing of HVAC systems and furnace filters under real-world and controlled environmental conditions — helping you validate performance, accelerate time-to-market, and meet evolving regulatory and customer demands.
Why Test HVAC Filters and Systems at Airmid?
Third-party verification from a globally recognised bioaerosol testing lab gives your brand a competitive edge and builds trust with procurement teams, regulators, and end-users. We conduct studies aligned with:
- ASHRAE 52.2, ASHRAE 185.1 / 185.2 (antimicrobial effectiveness)
- ISO 16890 and EN 1822
- Custom challenge testing with viable viruses, bacteria, mould spores, and allergens
- Real-world HVAC testing with validated chamber conditions
We also support clients preparing for US EPA, FDA, and international regulatory filings, as well as internal R&D and innovation pipelines. Our clients include leading filter manufacturers, HVAC system developers, medtech innovators, and healthy building solution providers.
ASHRAE 241 Testing for Control of Infectious Aerosols
Ratified in 2023, ASHRAE Standard 241 — Control of Infectious Aerosols is the first dedicated standard governing how buildings reduce the transmission of airborne pathogens. It establishes minimum requirements for ventilation, filtration, and air-cleaner performance under “Infection Risk Management Mode” — the elevated operating state buildings switch into during heightened transmission risk.
For HVAC and filter manufacturers, ASHRAE 241 introduces a measurable performance benchmark: equivalent clean airflow per occupant. At Airmid Healthgroup we test HVAC systems, filters, and integrated air-cleaning products against ASHRAE 241’s filtration and air-cleaning provisions. Our work includes:
- Equivalent clean airflow characterisation for in-duct and standalone equipment
- Filtration efficiency against bioaerosol challenge organisms relevant to the standard’s pathogen scope
- Combined assessment of filtration plus active air-cleaning technologies (UV, ionisation, photocatalysis) operating in the same airflow path
- Reporting structured to support claim substantiation, regulatory submissions, and specifier documentation
Our facilities operate in conformity with ISO/IEC 17025 for relevant accredited methods and follow GLP principles for studies destined for FDA or EPA submission.
HEPA and ULPA Filter Testing
HEPA-grade filters (H13 and H14 to EN 1822) and ULPA-grade filters require evaluation against both particulate and biological challenges before manufacturers can substantiate efficacy claims for healthcare, cleanroom, or residential air-cleaner applications. We perform controlled-chamber and in-duct testing using relevant penetration and integrity test methods, paired with bioaerosol challenge using bacterial, viral, and fungal surrogates. Results support claims tied to MERV ratings, ISO 16890 ePMx classifications, and EN 1822 classes.
Key Testing Capabilities
Bioaerosol Filtration Efficiency
- Virus (e.g. Influenza, Bacteriophage MS2)
- Bacteria (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas)
- Mould spores and airborne fungal fragments
- Dust mite and pet dander allergens
Antimicrobial and Antiviral Performance
- Using ASHRAE 185.1/185.2 and custom protocols
- GLP-compliant testing for treated media and coated HVAC coils
Particulate Matter and Filtration Efficacy
- PM1.0, PM2.5, PM10 performance
- Challenge tests under various airflow rates and environmental loads
Whole-System Performance Assessment
- Chamber-based assessments for complete HVAC configurations
- Impact on indoor air quality under simulated operational conditions
Our Difference: From Concept to Claim
When stakes are high, leading brands trust Airmid Healthgroup for:
- ISO 17025 accredited laboratory capabilities
- GLP-based projects for regulatory submissions
- Custom protocol development for novel technologies
- Human health focus — our bioaerosol chamber simulates real-world exposure conditions
- Expert reporting tailored for technical, regulatory, and marketing audiences
Who We Help
- Filter media manufacturers and OEMs
- HVAC system developers in residential, commercial, and medical sectors
- Green building innovators pursuing WELL, RESET, or LEED certification
- Product managers preparing for product launches or certification audits
Let’s Talk
From MERV 13 filters to cutting-edge HVAC biocide systems, we help innovators prove their products work — with science that stands up to scrutiny. Get in touch today to discuss your project, review sample reports, or book a scoping call.
Services for HVAC and Furnace Filters
- Single Pass Test: Assessing Allergen and Microbial Removal Capability in HVAC Systems
- ANSI/ASHRAE 52.2-2017
- Modified ASHRAE 52.2 Duct
- ISO 15714:2019 Testing
- Air Conditioners Services Menu
Related Case Studies
- Fellowes AeraMax™ Air Purifiers — Validated for Healthier Indoor Air — Independent third-party validation substantiating claims of reducing airborne influenza and cold viruses.
- Air Sniper’s Germicidal UVGI Technology — Advancing Indoor Air Quality — Scientific validation of UVGI technology’s effectiveness in reducing airborne pathogens.
“The performance of our technology is not reflected by existing industry test methods that are unrealistic and biased towards competitor technologies. Airmid designed a test system that was reflective of real world conditions and provided a completely different picture of the impact of our technology.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does HVAC filter testing take?
Typical project timelines run 4 to 8 weeks from sample receipt to final report, depending on the scope of methods, the number of replicates, and whether GLP-grade documentation is required. Custom protocols and integrated-system studies may take longer — we agree timelines as part of the initial scoping call.
What samples do you need from us?
For filter testing we typically request three filter samples per condition tested so we can report mean values with replicates. For full HVAC system or air-cleaner testing we ask for the production unit. We confirm exact sample quantities and dimensions during scoping based on the standards involved.
Are your test reports accepted by ASHRAE, EPA, and FDA?
Our laboratory operates in conformity with ISO/IEC 17025 for accredited methods and follows GLP for studies destined for federal regulatory submission. Reports are structured to support submission, but final acceptance always rests with the receiving regulator. We can coordinate directly with your regulatory team on the report format.
Can you test against multiple standards in one study?
Yes. Most manufacturer projects need parallel evaluation against several standards (e.g. ASHRAE 52.2, ISO 16890, and a pathogen challenge under ASHRAE 241). We design test campaigns to share sample preparation and chamber time efficiently across methods.
Do you test integrated technologies like UV-C combined with filtration?
Yes. Our recirculation duct system and aerobiology chamber are designed for integrated assessment of filtration combined with active technologies (UV-C, bipolar ionisation, photocatalytic oxidation). We can report individual contributions and combined system performance.
How do I get a quote?
Contact our team directly or submit an enquiry. We’ll arrange a 30-minute scoping call to discuss your test objectives, applicable standards, and timeline — then issue a written quote within 5 working days.
