The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) measures how effectively an air filter captures 0.3–10-micron airborne particles, such as dust mites, dust, pollen, smoke particles, and bacteria. Filters tested for a MERV rating receive a score between 1 and 16. You can view the EPA's MERV rating chart here.
In most cases, a MERV 11 air filter isn't too high for residential use. Generally speaking, anything under a MERV 13 air filter should provide very efficient air purification in a home without impacting airflow.
To determine MERV ratings, air filters are put through two primary tests: The Dust Spot Efficiency Test, which measures the ability of the filter to remove atmospheric dust particles from the air, and the Arrestance Test, which measures the filter's ability to remove synthetic particles that have been injected into the ...
A HEPA filter is essentially the ultimate solution in the air filter world and far exceeds what a MERV 13 is able to do. All HEPA filters have a rating of a MERV 17 or higher.
For most homes, a rating of MERV 8-13 is a good start to keep your air healthy.
The abbreviation stands for Minimum Effective Reporting Value. In other words, it's a measurement showing how small the holes are in the filter. The higher the MERV number, the smaller the holes, and the less that can pass through. Ultimately, this is what makes MERV 14 filters not a good choice for home use.
Generally, this is how long a filter lasts based on MERV ratings: MERV 1-4 furnace filters should be replaced once a month. MERV 5-8 filters need to be changed roughly every 3 months. MERV 9-11 filters require replacement every 6 months.
The type of filter you need will depend on the specific needs of your facility. If you are looking for a filter that can efficiently capture large particles, then MERV 13 is a good option. If you are looking for a filter that can efficiently capture smaller particles, then HEPA may be a better option.
One disadvantage of the highest MERV rated filters is that: The pressure drop across high MERV filters is more.
How Often Do I Need to Change Out My Air Filter? Generally, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing your air filter every 90 days, or 3 months. That can change based on where your home is located (ex. dusty, dry climates), if you have any pets, and the age of your system and equipment.
The best filters have MERV figures of 13 or higher. But these can be expensive. There's another option for getting rid of the smoke smell. The answer is carbon.
These high-quality filters trap particles as small as one micron, including Legionella and humidifier dust. MERV 9 to 12 filters are the best filters that a residential HVAC system will accommodate without serious system modifications.
Pleated air filters can restrict airflow to some extent due to their denser construction and larger surface area. Non-pleated air filters generally have lower airflow resistance compared to pleated filters.
You might be surprised to learn that this isn't often the case. It's important not to choose an air filter that exceeds the recommended MERV rating your HVAC system is designed to handle. In most cases, choosing high-MERV air filters will be detrimental to your HVAC system's performance.
Furnace filters with a MERV 8 rating or higher can effectively remove pet dander from the air. On average, MERV 8 filters remove 85% of large air particles and 50% of small particles. The higher you go the better the filtration will be, but we don't recommend going higher than MERV 13.
MERV 13 filters typically need to be changed every three to six months. However, the frequency with which you need to change your filter depends on a number of factors, including: The type / brand of filter you're using. The size of your HVAC system.
Because not all HVAC systems can use HEPA filters, air filters with a MERV rating of 13 to 16 are the best option to trap pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and dust mites, and they're highly effective for reducing allergens and improving indoor air quality.
MERV 8 filters capture basic particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander and are adequate for most households. Higher ratings, such as MERV 11 to 13, offer enhanced filtration, capturing smaller particles like mold spores and smoke, which is beneficial for those with allergies.
Pleated filters with MERV ratings from 5 to 8 are classified as medium filters and are the most common in residential HVAC systems.
It is an acronym for "high efficiency particulate air [filter]" (as officially defined by the U.S. Dept. of Energy).
The primary drawback of high MERV filters is that the pressure drop across them is too high, which can lead to reduced airflow and increased energy consumption in HVAC systems. This resistance may strain mechanical components over time, potentially causing failure.
Air filters that are overdue for a change are a common cause of HVAC system failure. Over time, dirt builds up in the heating and AC filters, causing components such as the motor to go into overdrive, which may eventually overheat your unit.
Though the appearance of mold will vary depending on what type it is, it shouldn't be too hard to identify. Watch for green, yellow, black, or white stains developing on your AC system's walls and air filter that display a fuzzy, velvety texture.
Carrier. Carrier is well-known in the HVAC industry, and their whole-house air filters uphold its reputation for quality. Their filters can fit into any HVAC system, offer high MERV ratings, and effectively capture and reduce a wide range of pollutants.