MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value and is a rating system designed by ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers) to measure the effectiveness of air filters. Not all filters are created equal, and the higher the MERV rating, the better the filter. MERV ratings range from 1 to 16 and are considered HVAC system grade filters suitable for residential, commercial, and general hospital HVAC systems. MERV ratings greater than 16 are commonly used in specialized commercial environments such as hospitals. When buying oven air filters, it's important to understand the MERV rating and what it means.
The recommended MERV rating for oven filters ranges from 6 to 8 to strike a great balance between maximum oven efficiency and home comfort. This rating captures particles as small as 3 microns. Choosing the right MERV rating for your oven filter has a big impact on indoor air quality, your HVAC system, and most importantly, the well-being of your family. In general, filters with a MERV 16 rating or lower are considered HVAC system grade filters for residential, commercial, and general hospital use.
However, as the MERV rating increases, the airflow decreases, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to push air through the oven, increasing the chance of a potential breakdown. In reality, HVAC experts often claim that there is generally little noticeable difference once the MERV rating is higher than seven. We can advise you on what system and what MERV ratings you need to provide the best quality air for your family. Now that you know what MERV rating your oven can handle, it's time to find the best HVAC filter for your installation. In general, filters with higher MERV ratings are more effective and improve air quality, but they are also more expensive.
Using an air filter with a MERV rating higher than recommended by the manufacturer of your oven or air conditioner may impair its performance.
