When you think about how essential air filters are for keeping your indoor environment safe and healthy, it is necessary to understand the importance of understanding air filter MERV ratings. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, a rating system used to determine how effectively an air filter is at trapping small particles like dust and allergens. This blog post will cover what goes into determining air filter MERV ratings and offer tips on picking the best air filter with the highest filtration efficiency for your home or business.
To learn more about air filters and find out which is best for your home and loved ones needs, contact the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons today. Serving St. Louis since 1950, we can answer everything you need to know about air filters from types of air filters to which air filters are best for allergies.
What are Air Filter MERV Ratings?
MERV ratings are standard measurements for air filters used in HVAC systems. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating assigns a numerical value to the effectiveness of air filters, ranging from 1-16. The higher the MERV rating, the more efficiently the filter captures airborne particles such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. However, it is important to keep in mind that while higher MERV-rated filters capture smaller particles, they may restrict airflow, causing strain or damage to your system.
With this trade off in mind, you should select an appropriate air filter MERV-rating for your home or business based on your individual needs.
What are the Highest Air Filter MERV Ratings?
The highest MERV rating for a furnace filter is MERV 16. Pleated filters with a MERV 16 rating offer the highest level of filtration, trapping even the tiniest airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. A MERV 16 filter will provide superior protection against pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and other allergens, making it an ideal choice for those with allergies or asthma. They can also be very effective in reducing pet dander and smoke particles.
However, these sorts of filters are more expensive than lower-rated ones and may require more frequent replacement due to their increased levels of filtration. As such, it is important to carefully consider your needs before deciding which type of air filter MERV Ratings is best suited for your home.
The Most Common Air Filter MERV Ratings
MERV 8 and MERV 11 air filters are two of the most common air filtration systems used in residential and commercial buildings. The main difference between the two is their efficiency rating, with MERV 8 filters having an efficiency rating of 75-85% for particles between 3-10 microns, while MERV 11 has an efficiency rating of 85-95% for particles between 1-12 microns. Therefore, a MERV 11 filter will offer more protection against smaller airborne particulates that can carry pollutants like dust, pollen, and pet dander.
Additionally, a MERV 11 filter will need to be replaced more often than a MERV 8 due to its improved filtration capabilities. Both filters are highly effective at capturing most airborne particles, though if you want maximum protection from smaller particles, a MERV 11 is the ideal choice.
Benefits of Using a Higher MERV-Rated Air Filter
A higher MERV-rated air filter offers improved indoor air quality and better dust and allergen control. Higher MERV-rated filters are particularly beneficial for those with allergies or other sensitivities to airborne particles, as they can trap more particles than standard filters. Some medical professionals may also recommend using high-efficiency filters for people with compromised immune systems and certain respiratory illnesses. However, they can reduce airflow, which can result in reduced HVAC system life and increased energy consumption due to higher resistance to airflow.
When selecting an air filter rating for your home/office environment, it is important to consider the benefits and trade-offs of a higher MERV rating air filter. Choosing the right filter is essential to ensure the optimal performance of your HVAC system and the best possible indoor air quality.
Contact Galmiche & Sons for Help Selecting the Best Air Filter for Your St. Louis Home
MERV ratings are a good way to ensure that you get an air filter that will suit your specific needs. By understanding the different MERV ratings, you can ensure that you choose the right air filter for your home or business. If you have questions about which air filter MERV rating is right for you, contact Galmiche & Sons. Serving St. Louis since 1950, we would be happy to help you find the perfect air filter as well as address all of your heating and air conditioning needs.
