Changing MERV 13 filters every 30 days to 90 days is ideal, depending on use and other factors. While some larger 4” pleated filters can technically last up to six months between changings, the truth is that it depends on a variety of factors.
Using a filter above MERV 13 in a home is unnecessary and can restrict airflow and damage the HVAC system. According to the EPA, MERV 13 filters can capture up to 90% of particles between 3 and 10 microns, up to 85% between 1 and 3 microns, and up to 50% between . 3 and 1 microns.
Ideal for superior residential and commercial use and smoke lounges, this filter is designed to last 90 days. We recommend replacing your filter regularly to ensure your air stays clean, energy costs are lowered, and your furnace works properly. MERV 13 filters are comparable to MPR 1500/1900 and FPR 10.
Higher numbers, cleaner air: Higher MERV ratings filter smaller particles (dust, pollen, mold spores, etc.) The trade-off: High-efficiency filters (MERV 13+) catch more but restrict airflow, potentially requiring more frequent replacements.
ASHRAE has similar guidance, which is to "use combinations of filters and air cleaners that achieve MERV 13 or better levels of performance for air recirculated by HVAC systems." The simplest way to meet this guidance is to use a MERV 13 filter in your appropriately-designed HVAC system, if the system is able to ...
Pleated filters with MERV ratings from 5 to 8 are classified as medium filters and are the most common in residential HVAC systems.
1“ Throw Away Filter
1” throw away filters are typically a MERV 2 rating. Most Bard products can use either a 1” throw away or a 2” throw away filter. Upgrading from a 1” filter to a 2” filter will give you a higher filtration value. Remember to reference your manual for what your Bard product is capable of handling.
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.
For most homes, a MERV rating between 8 and 13 strikes the perfect balance between filtration, airflow, and cost. A MERV 11 filter, for instance, can last up to six months and offers excellent air cleaning without putting too much strain on your HVAC system.
What Are MERV 13 Air Filters? MERV 13 air filters are the highest-rated air filters for home use. Any air filter with a rating higher than 13 will restrict air flow to the point of which could cause damage to your HVAC system, resulting in an added expense to fix it.
Changing MERV 13 filters every 30 days to 90 days is ideal, depending on use and other factors. While some larger 4” pleated filters can technically last up to six months between changings, the truth is that it depends on a variety of factors.
One disadvantage of the highest MERV rated filters is that: The pressure drop across high MERV filters is more.
MERV 13 filters are often used in commercial and industrial settings, while HEPA filters are often used in hospitals and other medical settings. MERV 13 filters are less expensive than HEPA filters, and they can often be used in a wider variety of settings.
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.
A: Our current recommendation is to use a filter with a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) of 13, but a MERV 14 (or better) filter Is preferred.
By capturing mold spores, air filters help prevent the spread of mold. Mold spores come in many sizes but are generally greater than 1 micron in diameter. Air filters rated Merv 13/13A using ASHRAE's standard 52.2 with Appendix J are constructed to capture 90% of particles 1 micron and larger.
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.
The higher-rated filter also captures up to 50 percent or greater of the smallest particles floating through the air. The primary benefit when comparing a MERV 11 vs. MERV 13 filter is that the latter includes stronger protection against airborne bacteria and viruses that spread through droplets in the air.
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.
Filter efficiency also has an impact – this is expressed as MERV, which stands for minimum efficiency reporting value. In general, this is how often changing furnace filters needs to be done: For 1- to 2-inch filters, replace them every 1 to 3 months. For 3- to 4-inch filters, replace them every 6 to 9 months.
The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating of the filter strongly impacts the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR). It is recommended to use a MERV 13 filter(s) to remove the very small particles in wildfire smoke.
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.
In the U.S., the MERV 8 filter has proven to be the most common filter on the market.
Filters rated 13-16 capture particulates down to 0.3 microns. This includes bacteria, some viruses, most insecticide dust, sneezes, asbestos and much more. Keep in mind that air filters in this range may impede airflow to the point of straining the HVAC system.
That's why Lowe's offers a wide selection of house air filters to suit your needs. We even carry air purifier filters for your air purifier. Whether you call it a furnace filter, heater filter or A/C filter, the job is the same: to filter the air you breathe.