MERV Ratings

Indoor air quality is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy and comfortable living environment. One key factor in improving air quality is selecting the right air filter for your HVAC system. MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings are used to measure the effectiveness of air filters in capturing particles of varying sizes. Understanding MERV ratings can help you choose the most suitable filter for your home's specific needs. 

What is a MERV Rating?

MERV ratings are standardized measurements that indicate the efficiency of an air filter in capturing particles of specific sizes. These ratings range from 1 to 20, with higher numbers representing increased filtration effectiveness. As a general rule, the higher the MERV rating, the better the filter is at trapping airborne particles and improving indoor air quality.

MERV Rating Scale:

MERV 1-4:

Filters in this range provide basic filtration, capturing larger particles such as dust and pollen. They are less effective at filtering smaller particles and microbes.

MERV 5-8:

Filters within this range offer better filtration, capturing a higher percentage of particles, including mold spores and pet dander. They are suitable for households with pets and mild allergies.

MERV 9-12:

These filters are considered high efficiency and are effective at trapping smaller particles like fine dust, bacteria, and tobacco smoke. They provide improved air quality for homes with occupants sensitive to airborne allergens.

MERV 13-16:

Filters in this range are rated as HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters and offer the highest level of filtration outside of specialized units. They can capture even smaller particles like viruses and are suitable for hospitals and commercial buildings.

MERV 17-20:

Filters in this top tier are typically used in clean rooms and surgical environments. They offer the highest level of filtration and are effective at capturing ultra-fine particles and contaminants.

Choosing the Right MERV Rating:

When selecting an air filter for your home, consider your specific needs and the air quality requirements of your household. A filter with a higher MERV rating may provide superior filtration but can also restrict airflow, potentially putting strain on your HVAC system. For most residential purposes, a MERV rating between 8 and 13 is usually recommended.