One simple way to enhance the air quality in your home is to choose HVAC filters with higher MERV ratings. Filters for cooling and heating appliances normally are assigned a MERV, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. The numbers range from 1 to 16 for residential systems, and the higher the number, the smaller the particles the filter will capture before your home’s air enters the A/C or furnace.
So, you wonder, why not just spend a few extra bucks and buy the highest MERV filter available? It’s not that easy. Higher MERV filters usually have the higher rating because they do a better job of filtering out various particulates from
your home’s air – everything from common dust and dirt to pollen, bacteria, cigarette smoke and mold spores. But this also means there’s a greater chance of impeding airflow to your HVAC equipment. And while improving your air quality is important, your system can’t work properly without optimum airflow.
Here’s a listing of air filters to give you an idea of how MERV ratings apply to different filtering levels:
- MERV rating 1 to 4: Economy filters that will capture particles down to 10 microns. This filter will filter out pollen and mold spores but otherwise won’t do much to improve your indoor air quality. However, it will allow for smooth airflow if kept clean.
- MERV rating 5 to 8: This medium-quality filter will capture particles down to 3 microns and take care of the smaller spores missed by MERV 1 to 4. It’s usually a happy medium between filtering out unwanted particles and maintaining good airflow.
- MERV rating 9 to 12: High quality filters that will capture particles down to 1 micron. This filter will filter out bacteria and germs, though at this level you need to pay attention to whether airflow is affected.
- MERV rating 13 to 16: These filters are the highest quality standard filters. They will capture down to .3 microns and will filter out tobacco smoke. Consult with an HVAC professional before using these filters, since they may have an adverse effect on the flow of air in your cooling or heating system.
No matter what filter you choose, make sure you change it regularly. For more expert advice on air filters or any other home comfort concerns, contact us at Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning. We’ve been serving the greater Twin Cities area for over 30 years.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about MERV ratings and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning services Minnesota’s Twin Cities. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!