{"id":16584,"date":"2025-02-07T13:00:16","date_gmt":"2025-02-07T18:00:16","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.filtersfast.com\/blog\/?p=16584"},"modified":"2025-02-07T13:26:48","modified_gmt":"2025-02-07T18:26:48","slug":"what-is-the-difference-between-merv-ratings","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.filtersfast.com\/blog\/what-is-the-difference-between-merv-ratings\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is The Difference Between MERV Ratings – MERV 11 Recommended"},"content":{"rendered":"

Changing your HVAC filter should be second nature. But have you thought about how the MERV rating you choose affects your home?<\/p>\n

MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. The MERV rating system is the industry standard the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) created. It is used to compare filters made by various manufacturers. MERV ratings range from 1 (low efficiency; minimum filtration) to 20 (highest efficiency; highest filtration).<\/p>\n

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Order Air Filters<\/a><\/p>\n

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Air Filter Types and Recommendations<\/h2>\n

If you use cheap air filters like fiberglass ones in your home, you could be doing more harm than good. Unfortunately, fiberglass air filters are not as effective at capturing airborne contaminants.<\/p>\n

MERV 8 or MERV 11 filters are the most recommended for most households. The highest MERV rating that can be used in the average home is MERV 13. An easy way to remember MERV ratings is that the higher the MERV rating, the smaller the particles it can capture.<\/p>\n

According to Alex, our in-house air filtration expert, MERV 11 air filters are ideal.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe MERV 11 air filters remove a higher percentage of contaminants in the air that will increase indoor air quality and maintain the efficiency of the HVAC unit. It is also highly recommended if there are pets in the home, which can greatly reduce the air quality in your home.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Any MERV past 13 is considered HEPA. HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air, meaning the filter is certified to reduce contaminants as small as 0.3 microns. This type of filter requires a specialty system and is often only used in hospitals and laboratories. HEPA filters are not recommended for residential applications.<\/p>\n

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Importance of Airflow<\/h2>\n

While having a filter that can capture finer particles may be ideal, you must also consider how a higher MERV filter will impact your airflow.<\/p>\n

Why is considering airflow so important when selecting the right furnace filter? For example, MERV 13 air filters will reduce the tinier particles in your home\u2019s air and minimize the airflow through your system. This can strain your furnace and HVAC system, costing you money to repair and increase your monthly energy bill.<\/p>\n

However, it’s important to note that any MERV rating above 13 could negatively affect some HVAC systems, so it’s advisable to verify that your unit can handle higher-rated filters before purchasing.<\/p>\n

The chart below shows the particle sizes each MERV rating can capture.<\/p>\n

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MERV 8 vs MERV 11: HVAC Efficiency<\/h2>\n

When considering which MERV rating best suits your needs, you must understand how MERV ratings can impact your HVAC system’s efficiency.<\/p>\n

MERV 8<\/strong>: Captures larger particles, like dust, pollen, and mold spores, helping to protect your heating and cooling system and improve indoor air quality. It also allows for better airflow and reduces the system’s strain, often resulting in lower energy consumption.<\/p>\n

MERV 11<\/strong>: capture finer particles, including pet dander and smoke, providing higher air purification. While they filter more effectively, they’re also denser, which will impact airflow. This is why ensuring that your HVAC system is equipped to handle a higher level of filtration is crucial. If not, it may work harder to pull air through the filter. If you choose not to, you may see an increase in energy usage, leading to higher utility bills.<\/p>\n

Ultimately, you should ensure that your MERV is adequate for your system’s capabilities and requirements.<\/p>\n

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MERV 8 vs MERV 11: Maintenance<\/h2>\n

Air filters should be replaced at least every 1-3 months to ensure efficiency. However, several factors may lead to more frequent filter changes.<\/p>\n

These factors may include:<\/p>\n

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  • Number of people living in your home<\/li>\n
  • Number of pets living in your home<\/li>\n
  • If a smoker lives in your home<\/li>\n
  • The climate where you live<\/li>\n
  • Local air quality<\/li>\n
  • If someone with allergies lives in your home<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    MERV 11 air filters may require frequent changes due to their tighter-knit media and ability to capture smaller particles.<\/p>\n

    As a rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to check your air filter every few weeks and change it when it needs to be replaced.<\/p>\n

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    MERV 8 vs MERV 11: Cost<\/h2>\n

    Cost is something to consider when shopping for air filters.<\/p>\n

    MERV 8 Filters<\/strong>: Budget-friendly and will provide an adequate amount of filtration.<\/p>\n

    MERV 11 Filters:<\/strong> More expensive due to their premium filtration capability.<\/p>\n

    Buying in bulk is an easy way to save money on air filters. Most businesses will give a bulk discount if you purchase multiple filters. Plus, you’ll have filters on hand for future filter changes.<\/p>\n

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    Your Trusted Filter Source<\/h2>\n

    Filters Fast carries a wide selection of high-quality, pleated air filters for your home with various MERV ratings. We also have air filters in 1-in., 2-in., 3-in. and 4-in. depths.<\/p>\n

    However, our Filters Fast\u00ae Brand MERV 11 air filters are better for your home. These filters have been rigorously tested to ensure that they meet quality standards and are guaranteed to effectively reduce dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens from your indoor air.<\/p>\n

    Invest in a quality filter for your furnace without paying a high price.<\/p>\n

    Ensure you verify the size you need and place your order. Wondering how to figure out what size furnace filter you need? Check out this video:<\/p>\n