Is MERV 13 as good as HEPA?

Author: Foster Predovic  |  Last update: Tuesday, February 17, 2026

MERV 13 filters trap at least 85% of particles sized 1.0 micron and larger, and at least 50% of particles in the 0.3 – 1.0 micron range. HEPA filters capture 99% or better of particles sized 1.0 micron and larger, and 99.97% of particles in the 0.3 – 1.0 micron range.

Is MERV 13 too high for residential?

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.

Does CDC recommend MERV 13 filters?

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 ...

Is H13 better than true HEPA?

According to the EN 1822 classification system, the best HEPA filters air purifiers units are those classified as H13 and H14. The H13 and H14 filters are commonly marketed as “Medical-grade HEPA” air purifiers. The H13 HEPA air purifier works with 99.99% more efficiency compared to a “True HEPA” air purifier.

What is the MERV rating 13 equivalent to?

MPR 2200 is equal to MERV Rating 13. MPR 2800 is equal to MERV Rating 13.

What is a MERV 13 Filter | MERV Filters vs HEPA Filters

Is MERV 13 too restrictive?

A MERV rating between 8 and 13 for most households provides a good balance, offering adequate filtration to improve air quality without significantly impacting system performance. Consult your HVAC manufacturer's recommendations to ensure you choose the most suitable filter for your home.

Are MERV 13 filters better than HEPA filters?

MERV 13 filters trap at least 85% of particles sized 1.0 micron and larger, and at least 50% of particles in the 0.3 – 1.0 micron range. HEPA filters capture 99% or better of particles sized 1.0 micron and larger, and 99.97% of particles in the 0.3 – 1.0 micron range.

What filter is better than HEPA?

ULPA filters trap more and smaller particulate matter than HEPA filters. ULPA filters are 99.999% effective at removing submicron particulate matter of 0.12-micron diameter or larger, while HEPA filters are 99.97% effective for eliminating particulate matter of 0.3-micron diameter or larger.

How long does a HEPA 13 filter last?

Longer Lifespan: H13 HEPA filters are designed to last for a long time, typically 12-18 months or more, depending on usage. Synthetic filters, however, need to be replaced more frequently, usually every 3-6 months. This can be more expensive in the long run, as well as being more wasteful.

Can you clean a H13 true HEPA filter?

Yes, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove loose particles from the surface of the HEPA filter.

What MERV rating are throw away filters?

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.

What is the most commonly used filter in an HVAC system?

Pleated filters with MERV ratings from 5 to 8 are classified as medium filters and are the most common in residential HVAC systems.

How often should MERV 13 filters be changed?

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.

Does Merv 13 reduce airflow?

HVAC System Compatibility

However, it's worth noting that filters with higher MERV ratings can restrict airflow. While filters rated 13 or below generally don't strain most HVAC systems, those rated above 10 might require professional installation.

What MERV rating is best for residential use?

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.

Is there a downside to high MERV filters?

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.

Does a HEPA 13 filter remove mold?

True H13 HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. Activated carbon filters trap larger mold spores, allergens, and odors. Silver ions sterilize mold as it enters the purifier.

Should you run a HEPA filter all the time?

Is it safe to run an air purifier all the time? Residential air purifier systems are designed to run continuously, so there is no danger in keeping them running, even when you are out of the house or asleep.

Are Merv 13 filters hospital grade?

MERV ratings are from 1-16, and filters with higher MERV ratings trap small particles more effectively than filters with lower MERV ratings. In general, filters with a rating of MERV 16 or below are considered to be HVAC-system-grade filters for residential, commercial and general hospital use.

Why are HEPA filters rarely used in homes?

Part of the reason that HEPA filters are so rarely used in HVAC systems is that they are extremely restrictive in terms of airflow. This means that the system needs to be extremely powerful and use additional fans in order to properly draw air through the HEPA filter and circulate it throughout the room or building.

What are the two disadvantages of HEPA filters?

The first is related to their cost. A high-quality HEPA filter can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars up to several thousand depending on the size and model and the area to be covered. Secondly, they need to be regularly maintained and replaced in order to keep them working properly.

What is the best placement for an air purifier in a room?

Choose a Central Location

Place your air purifier in a central area of the room to allow for efficient airflow and circulation. This means you should keep your device away from walls, corners, and other obstructions (more on why in a second).

What is one disadvantage of the highest MERV rated filters?

One disadvantage of the highest MERV rated filters is that: The pressure drop across high MERV filters is more.

Does MERV 13 filter mold spores?

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. Even air filters with ratings of Merv 9/9A will offer some level of protection.

What is the MERV 13 performance?

Nordic Pure MERV 13 Air Filters are engineered to capture over 90% of airborne particles from 3.0-10.0 microns, effectively filtering out contaminants such as lint, dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and even particles from coughs, sneezes, and smog.

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