MERV ratings are used to measure the effectiveness of air filters in reducing particulate matter and pollutants in the air. The classification of a filter is based on the minimum particle size it is capable of trapping, which is measured in microns. Minimum Efficiency Report Values, or MERV, indicate the ability of a filter to capture particles between 0.3 and 10 microns (µm). In other words, MERV ratings signify an air filter's capability to remove contaminants from the air.
The higher the MERV rating, the higher the performance. The MERV rating scale was developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) to evaluate the effectiveness of air filters. It provides specialized knowledge on topics related to domestic air filtration, including HVAC filters, filtration efficiency, and indoor air quality. A MERV 14 or higher air filter can generate more airflow resistance than a residential HVAC system can withstand. Filters with a MERV rating of 8 to 13 are usually high-end filters for domestic use or high-quality commercial filters.
MERV 11-13
air filters are a kind of midpoint between the cheapest and the most expensive.MERV 6-8 filters protect your air conditioning system, but they are not considered to be the most effective at trapping large portions of airborne particulate matter. The official measure used to determine a filter's MERV score is based on the worst percentage of six tests. Therefore, if you're looking for a high-quality common household air filter that's efficient with airflow, then all you need is a MERV 8-10 filter. When it comes to understanding what a MERV rating means for your home or business, it's important to know that it's not just about finding the highest rated filter. It's also important to consider factors such as cost, size, and compatibility with your HVAC system. A higher MERV rating may mean more efficient filtration but could also mean more frequent filter changes and higher costs.
It's important to find a balance between efficiency and cost when selecting an air filter. In conclusion, MERV ratings are an important tool for measuring the effectiveness of air filters in reducing particulate matter and pollutants in the air. The higher the MERV rating, the better the performance of an air filter in trapping airborne particles. However, it's important to consider factors such as cost, size, and compatibility with your HVAC system when selecting an air filter.
