When it comes to air filters, there are a lot of options available. But what is the difference between a MERV 11 and a MERV 13 air filter? In this article, we'll explore the differences between these two types of air filters and how they can help improve your indoor air quality.MERV 11 air filters have a particle resistance of just over 90%. This means that 81.5% of the dust particles introduced into the filter were successfully filtered from the air. By comparison, MERV 13 HVAC filters have a particle resistance of around 98%.
This means that 98% of the dust particles introduced into the filter were successfully filtered from the air. Naturally, it's significantly more efficient.The main advantage when comparing a MERV 11 filter to a MERV 13 is that the latter includes greater protection against airborne bacteria and viruses that spread through airborne droplets. The fundamental difference between MERV 11 and MERV 13 is that MERV 13 filters better trap fine particles. MERV 13 filters trap 50% of fine particles compared to MERV 11 filters, which trap 20%.
In particular, MERV 13 filters can trap bacteria, viruses, smoke, and microscopic allergens.Filterbuy offers MERV 8, MERV 11 and MERV 13 air filters and ovens, which cover the normal range of household needs by providing clean air and, at the same time, protecting air conditioning equipment. MERV 8 filters typically filter 90% of particulates from the air, MERV 11 can remove around 95%, and MERV 13 can block approximately 98%. Specifically, the MERV classification expresses the ability of an air filter to trap airborne particles between 0.3 and 10 microns.Use an 8-13 MERV filter, depending on your family's needs and environment, and start using an indoor air quality monitor to determine if a separate air purification system is needed. Strict building codes and increased foot traffic generally mean that commercial properties should opt for a filter with a higher MERV rating.
Despite the numerous requirements for MERV 13 filters, most homes don't need high-efficiency filters.MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value and determines the efficiency of an air filter when it comes to capturing particles based on its size in microns. Filters that have the MERV 16 to 20 format are generally only found in hospitals, clean rooms, and nuclear power plants. While some online sites talk about MERV 17-20 filters, the EPA and ASHRAE only rate filters on the MERV scale from 1 to 16.The classification is based on a test method developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and is useful for determining which air filter will work best for your heating and air conditioning system and your indoor air quality objectives. For example, a MERV 8 filter provides extensive filtration in a home with no pets, little outdoor pollution, and no residents with health problems.According to the EPA, MERV 13 filters have a 90% efficiency in capturing particles between 3.0 and 10 microns, an 85% efficiency in capturing particles between 1.0 and 3.0 microns, and a 50% efficiency in capturing particles between 0.3 and 1.0 microns.In conclusion, when it comes to choosing an air filter for your home or business, it's important to consider all of your options carefully.
The type of filter you choose will depend on your specific needs as well as your budget. If you're looking for maximum protection against airborne bacteria and viruses that spread through airborne droplets then you should opt for a MERV 13 filter.
