This post was most recently updated on April 28th, 2023
If you own a home or business, you know the importance of choosing the right air filters. But regarding selecting the best filter for your needs, what should you look for? It’s important to understand the features and benefits of each filter type to make an informed decision. One key factor to consider is the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating.
What is MERV Rating?
A MERV rating is a numerical value given to an air filter that indicates its capacity for removing particles from the air. The higher the MERV number, the more efficient the filter will be at trapping particles like pet dander, pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and other airborne pollutants. The scale ranges from 1-20; filters rated 1-4 are considered low efficiency, while those rated 17-20 are considered high efficiency. Filters with a MERV rating between 5-16 are considered medium efficiency.
How to Choose the MERV Rating?
Choosing which filter best suits your needs depends on factors like location and environment. For instance, if you live in a dry climate with lots of dirt and dust in the air, you may opt for higher-efficiency filters with a MERV rating between 17-20. On the other hand, if in case you live in an urban area with fewer airborne pollutants, lower-efficiency filters with a MERV rating between 1-4 will likely be sufficient for your needs.
Homeowners should also remember that higher-efficiency filters tend to be more expensive than lower-efficiency ones but can help keep indoor air clean and free from allergens. Commercial establishments such as hospitals or laboratories may require even higher efficiency filters due to their need to maintain very strict standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
When To Upgrade to a Higher MERV-Rating Air Filter?
In general, it is recommended that homeowners upgrade to a higher MERV-rated filter if they notice an increase in allergies or other respiratory problems. Moreover, if you live in an area with high airborne pollutants, if you’re noticing your air filter or smoke eater isn’t working as efficiently, and you are frequently changing your air filters, then upgrading to a higher MERV-rated filter can help to improve indoor air quality.
Take Away
When it comes to selecting an air filter system for your home or business, it’s crucial to understand how different types of filters differ in terms of their features and benefits – including their MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating, which tells you how well they can trap airborne particles like pet dander, pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and other pollutants from circulating through your indoor space.
Choosing which filter best suits your needs depends on factors like location and environment – homeowners typically require medium ratings, such as 23x20x1 air filters. In comparison, commercial establishments may need higher ratings depending on their standards for cleanliness and hygiene.
Understanding these differences can help ensure that you select an efficient air filter system that meets all your needs and keeps your indoor space free from allergens and other pollutants. If you are still determining what filter is right for your home, consult a professional HVAC contractor. They will be able to recommend a filter that is appropriate for your specific needs.
