The Minimum Efficiency Report Value (MERV) rating is a system designed by ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers) to measure the effectiveness of air filters. It is used to determine how well a filter can prevent dust and other contaminants from passing through it into the air stream. The higher the MERV rating, the finer the filtration and the fewer airborne contaminants are allowed to pass. MERV ratings range from 1 to 20, with 1 being the lowest level of filtration and 20 being the highest.
The MERV rating measures a filter's ability to capture particles between 0.3 and 10 microns (µm). It is based on six tests that measure the filter's efficiency in trapping particles of different sizes. The worst percentage of the six tests is selected as the official measure used to determine the MERV rating of a filter. Before buying a new oven filter, be sure to check if your HVAC system has a maximum MERV rating.
MERV ratings 1 to 16 are considered HVAC system grade filters suitable for residential, commercial and general hospital HVAC systems. If you use a filter with a MERV rating that is not compatible with your system, the result can be inefficient and high energy costs. For a typical home, aiming for a MERV rating between 8 and 13 is ideal. However, if you need absolute cleanliness, such as in surgical operating rooms or cleanrooms, then you should use filters with MERV ratings between 17 and 20.
Fiberglass filters have very low pressure drops because they are extremely porous and ineffective at filtering. As the MERV rating increases, the airflow decreases, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to move air through the oven, increasing the chance of a potential breakdown. We can advise you on what system and what MERV ratings you need to provide the best quality air for your family. With fast shipping and very competitive prices, along with a large selection of filters suitable for every need, you will find the right filter for your home.
