MERV 11 and MERV 13 filters are specifically designed to trap and remove even the tiniest smoke particles from the air. These filters offer superior filtration capabilities and can help alleviate the negative effects of wildfire smoke on indoor air quality.
A MERV 11 filter is the most popular choice for residential homes. This type of filter can remove most of harmful contaminants from a home environment, including smoke, dust mites, pet dander, mold, pollen, dust and smog.
Upgrading to a filter rated MERV 13 or higher can be especially important during smoky periods to effectively remove fine particle pollution from smoke in the indoor air. Most furnaces and HVAC systems can accommodate a MERV 13 filter without creating equipment problems, provided that the filter is replaced frequently.
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.
The MERV 11 filter is better at capturing pet dander and bacteria from sneezes. It also provides additional protection against smoke, smog, or automobile exhaust fumes that may seep in from the garage. A MERV 11 filter is capable of filtering at the following rates: 0.30-1.0 size microns greater than or equal to 20%
The MERV 11 air filter is the wrong choice for people who do not own pets and do not have any breathing trouble; this is because it can lead to restricted airflow. Air filters with higher ratings can also have negative effects on HVAC components.
The critical difference between MERV 11 and MERV 13 is that MERV 13 filters better trap fine particles. MERV 13 filters trap 50% of fine particles versus MERV 11 filters that trap 20%. In particular, MERV 13 filters can trap bacteria, viruses, smoke, and microscopic allergens.
For most homes, a rating of MERV 8-13 is a good start to keep your air healthy.
Sometimes, a MERV 11 filter may be too restrictive, particularly for older or smaller HVAC systems not designed to handle the increased pressure drop. If you notice that airflow has diminished or your HVAC unit is cycling on and off more frequently, these could be signs that your filter is too restrictive.
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 most effective type of air purifier to use to remove tobacco smoke is called a 'Hepa' air purifier ( Hepa stands for High Efficient Particulate Arrestor).
We recommend running an air purifier on high for an hour the first time you turn the machine on. That'll clear the air quickly by passing the entire volume of air in the room through the filter four to six times. Thereafter, keeping the machine on low or automatic will keep the air clear. Just run it continuously.
According to experts, MERV 13 filters or higher are essential for trapping the fine particulate matter present in wildfire smoke.
The scale starts at MERV 1, which is the least efficient, and goes all the way up to MERV 20. To make matters slightly more confusing, anything from MERV 17 and above is considered a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter.
Superior Particle Capture: MERV 11 filters excel at capturing smaller particles, including mold spores, fine dust, and pet allergens.
MERV 11 and MERV 13 filters are specifically designed to trap and remove even the tiniest smoke particles from the air. These filters offer superior filtration capabilities and can help alleviate the negative effects of wildfire smoke on indoor air quality.
Generally speaking, it's not recommended to go above a 11 MERV rating. The higher the MERV rating, the more tightly woven the filter is, which makes it difficult for air to pass through. If your AC doesn't get enough airflow, it can cause something called a pressure drop, which can lead to high AC bills and AC damage.
High-MERV filters increase the static pressure of your system, and if the ductwork is already marginal, this can cause the airflow to drop to a level where the temperature exceeds the furnace's limit.
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.
This extra depth gives the filter more room for airflow. That means that as the filter collects dirt and other debris from your air, it won't restrict the airflow in your furnace as much. This prevents damage to the furnace and gives the filter itself a longer lifespan.
A MERV rating between 9-12 or even higher would be good if someone in your family suffers from allergies or asthma. A MERV 11 filter can trap particles such as dust, dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, lint, and larger particles.
To determine the best MERV rating for your home and HVAC system, start with the owner's manual. Look in the manual for the listed maximum MERV rating. Using a filter with a value higher than the recommended limit immediately affects the system's efficiency and will ultimately lead to costly future repairs.