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Mastering MERV Ratings: Understanding Air Filter Ratings
Why Air Filter Ratings Matter and What MERV Rating is Best for Home Use
What is MERV? As air quality becomes an increasingly important concern, understanding air filter ratings has become more important than ever. Air filters help to remove harmful particles and allergens from the air we breathe, making our indoor environments healthier and more comfortable. However, all air filters are not created equal. There are a variety of different air filter types and ratings systems, and choosing the right one can greatly impact the quality of air in your home or workplace. In this article, we will explore what is MERV and navigate the world of air filter ratings to help you understand the best way to choose a furnace filter for your needs.
What is the Best MERV Rating for Furnace Filters?
The Basics: What is MERV and How is it Measured?
What is MERV? MERV is one of the rating systems you might keep seeing when you research furnace filters. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, and it is a measurement of how effectively an air filter can remove airborne particles from the air. The MERV rating ranges from 1 to 20, with 1 being the lowest level of filtration and 20 being the highest.
The rating is determined by measuring the filter’s ability to trap particles of varying sizes such as pollen, mold spores, pet dander, and other common allergens. The higher the MERV rating, the more efficient the filter is at trapping these particles. That does not mean you can use any MERV rating in your HVAC system though! So what is MERV? In a sentence, the industry standard for filtration effectiveness of air filters.
Common Misconceptions About MERV Ratings
Now that you understand what is MERV rating on filters. It’s just as important to understand you might not need a higher MERV rated filter. Many people believe that the highest MERV-rated filter is always the best choice. However, this is not necessarily the case. Filters with high MERV ratings can actually damage your HVAC system if it is not designed to accommodate such a filter. This is one of several reasons we only offer up to a MERV 13. Additionally, high MERV-rated filters are not always appropriate for all settings, such as those with low air flow. It is important to choose the right filter for the job, rather than simply selecting the highest MERV rating available.
Different Types of Air Filters: Which is Best for You?
Now that we’ve answered- what is MERV? You might be wondering what MERV should i use? It’s important to note- there are several types of air filters available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Fiberglass filters are the most common type and are designed to capture larger particles, such as dust and lint. MERV rated pleated filters like Airspire uses are more efficient than fiberglass filters and are better at trapping smaller particles. We believe every home should use a MERV rated pleated filter. The only drawback is pleated MERV filters cost a lot more than fiberglass. Until now.
The Importance of Choosing the Right MERV Rating
What is MERV? The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers also known as ASHRAE along with EPA manage the MERV rating system. This is why choosing a MERV rated filter is one of the most important considerations when selecting an air filter. Choosing the right MERV rating will depend on your individual needs, such as the presence of pets, allergies, or respiratory issues. A filter with a MERV rating of 8-11 is typically suitable for most residential settings, while a MERV rating of 13 is suitable for newer homes or older homes with a HVAC system that can handle the restricted airflow from a MERV 13.
For those with severe allergies or respiratory issues, a higher MERV rating like 11 or 13 may be necessary. It is important to note that higher MERV ratings can reduce the airflow in your HVAC system, so it is important to make sure your filter is not only the right size, but also the right MERV. At Airspire filters we’re here to help. Contact us if needed, we’re happy to explain what is MERV; and what MERV rating is right for your home.
What is MERV? In a sentence: A rating system for air filters in your homes HVAC system. While higher MERV ratings may reduce the airflow in your HVAC system, they can also provide significant benefits. Higher ratings can remove more allergens and other harmful particles from the air, resulting in cleaner, healthier air. Additionally, high-efficiency filters with the right MERV filter ratings can reduce energy costs by helping your HVAC system run more efficiently. Checkout our MERV rating chart below.
Airspire | MERV 8 | MERV 11 | MERV 13 |
Household Dust | |||
Large Debris | |||
Lint | |||
Mold Spores | |||
Pollen | |||
Saw Dust | |||
Pet Dander | |||
Some Smoke | |||
Some Smog | |||
Cough Particles | |||
Sneeze Particles | |||
Bacteria & Some Virus | |||
Many PM 2.5 Particles | |||
Microfine Particles | |||
Exhaust Particles |
How Often Should You Replace Your Air Filter?
Now that you no longer have the question what is a MERV rating? Let’s review another common question we often have asked by customers. How often to replace the filters?
The frequency with which you should replace your air filter will depend on a variety of factors, including the MERV rating, the size of your home, and the presence of pets or smokers. In general, fiberglass air filters should be replaced every single month. While a quality air filter like Airspire only needs to be changed every 3 months to ensure optimal performance. This is why we only offer 4 packs of filters. It’s a once-a-year purchase with Airspire. Easy peasy- just like what is MERV!
Maintaining Your Air Filter: Tips and Tricks
Once you have chosen the right air filter, it is essential to maintain it properly. This includes checking the filter regularly for signs of wear or clogging. Plus, replacing the air filter when necessary. Additionally, it is important to keep your HVAC system clean and well-maintained to ensure the proper functioning of your air filter.
Upgrading Your HVAC System to Improve Air Quality
In addition to selecting the right air filter, upgrading your HVAC system can also improve indoor air quality. HVAC systems with UV lights, air purifiers, or humidifiers can remove additional particles and allergens from the air, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment. It is best to consult with a professional HVAC installer to determine the best options for your specific situation. We can advise you about what is MERV and offer you the filters for sale, but we do not install HVAC systems.
What is MERV FAQ’s
What is MERV?
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) and is a rating system used to measure the efficiency of air filters. It is the industry standard and the only one recognized by the EPA.
It’s important to keep in mind that the higher the MERV rating, the more efficient the air filter will be at capturing particles. That’s why Airspire air filters are designed with a MERV rating of 8, 11 and 13, making them one of the most efficient air filters available on the market today, while maintaining the low prices.
Airspire air filters are designed to reduce airborne allergens, dust, and other particles in the air. The higher MERV rating of 8, 11 and 13 makes them an ideal choice for anyone looking to create a healthier home environment. Airspire air filters are designed to trap small particles, making them perfect for anyone looking to improve the air quality in their home.
Not only are Airspire air filters designed with a MERV rating of 8, 11 and 13, but they also feature a pleated filtration design that provides superior air filtration. The filter works by trapping particles of different sizes, from the small dust particles to larger airborne allergens.
Airspire air filters are also designed to be easy to maintain and replace, they won’t tear and are easy to swap out every 90 days; so, you don’t have to worry about constantly replacing your filter.
Whether you’re looking to reduce allergens in your home or just want to improve the air quality, Airspire air filters with their mid to high MERV ratings are the perfect choice. With Airspire air filters, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best air filtration available on the market today and that your home will be a much healthier place to live.
What Is the Best Air Filter Home Brand with a MERV Rating?
Now that you know, what is MERV. What the best brand of MERV filters to buy? When choosing an air filter for your home, it is important to know the type of filter and its Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating. MERV ratings range from 1 to 16 and indicate the level of air filter efficiency. The higher the MERV rating, the more efficient the filter is in trapping airborne particles and dust.
Airspire is a leading air filter home brand that offers a wide variety of air filters with MERV ratings, ranging from MERV 8 to MERV 13.
MERV 4 to MERV 7 filters are designed for general use, such as in homes or offices. They are capable of trapping dust, pollen, mold spores, and other airborne particles.
MERV 8 to MERV 11 filters are designed to reduce and capture some smaller particles, including dust mites, pet dander, and smoke.
MERV 13 filters are the most efficient in filtering airborne particles and are designed for some newer, higher-end or commercial air filter furnace systems.
Airspire air filters feature electrostatically charged fibers that help capture and retain particles more effectively than non-electrostatically charged filters.
They are also backed by Amazon’s 30-day refund policy for satisfaction and guarantee, so you can be sure you are getting the best air filter for your home.
Whether you are looking for a general upgrade to a MERV 8 furnace filter or a higher-efficiency MERV 11 or MERV 13 filter, Airspire has the best air filter for you.
What MERV Rating Should I Use?
When it comes to best choosing the best MERV rating for home air filters, the first step is to determine the MERV rating that is best for your space.
What is MERV? MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, which is a rating system used to measure the effectiveness of air filters. The higher the number, the better the filter is at trapping contaminants.
Airspire offers MERV 8, 11, and 13 air filters. MERV 8 is ideal for filtering large particles such as dust, lint, and pet dander and safe for most every home HVAC system. If you’re unsure you can contact us or play it safe with a MERV 8!
MERV 11 adds protection against pet dander, more allergens, smaller dust mites, and other smaller particles. This is our most popular seller!
If you’re looking for the most comprehensive air filtration, we suggest the MERV 13, which removes pollen, some automobile emissions, and some smoke. Note: Not all HVAC systems can take the airflow restriction from a MERV 13, so check your HVAC system model number.
The type of filter you choose should depend on the size and needs of your space. If you’re still unsure, we suggest to buy a MERV 8 or 11.
Airspire can help you make the best decision for your home. We hope these questions helped answer not only what is MERV, but goes beyond what is MERV! Now that we’ve answered your question what is MERV? We also are here for you with experts who can answer any questions you may have about air filtration.
Is MERV Better Than HEPA?
What is MERV? That was a much easier to answer question.
Is MERV better than HEPA? It is a lot more difficult to answer than what is MERV. We can’t really give a straightforward answer as the two air filters are designed for different purposes.
MERV air filters are designed to capture and retain airborne particles ranging from pollen and dust to mold spores and pet dander and designed to be installed in a HVAC system.
HEPA filters are designed to capture and retain particles as small as 0.3 microns. Which is a filtration level beyond.
HEPA filters are generally separate devices or small appliances. They are not built-in to a HVAC system. They can be, but it’s uncommon and extremely expensive to do so.
Merv 8, 11 and 13 filters can offer more efficient filtration of larger common airborne particles that are between 3 and 10 microns in size when compared to HEPA filters. However, depending on the type of airborne particles you wish to capture, a HEPA filter may be needed in your home in addition to a MERV rated air filter.
Mastering MERV for Better Air Quality
By now you know what is MERV and understanding air filter ratings can be intimidating, but it is an important step toward creating a healthier indoor environment. By selecting the right Airspire filter and properly changing it every 90 days, you can enjoy cleaner, healthier air and improved energy efficiency. Whether you are dealing with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues, the right air filter can make a significant difference.
Here’s two links you might find useful. This is the EPA webpage about what is MERV and here’s a link to ASHRE.
