High Efficiency Furnace Filters Merv Rating

The higher the number the better the furnace filter is in capturing particles.

High efficiency furnace filters merv rating.

Merv stands for minimum efficiency reporting value and is a measure of how well a filter removes particulates from the air. But for most households a merv 7 or 8 filter might be the sweet spot between performance and cost. When shopping for furnace air filters don t confuse merv with other rating systems that may appear on packaging especially from big box home improvement stores. So what does merv stand for anyways.

In general filters with a rating of merv 16 or below are considered to be hvac system grade filters for residential commercial and general hospital use. An air filter s merv rating is a scale from 1 16 that describes the minimum efficiency of the air filter. The american society of heating refrigerating and air conditioning developed this rating as a way of identifying a filter s ability to trap air pollutants and particles. To determine resistance filters use the merv rating system.

Merv rating is essential for finding the proper furnace filter for your home. In short the higher the merv rating is the more resistant the filter is. If your family has health or allergy issues then you may want to look for a high efficiency filter that s merv 11 or higher. Download your maintenance checklist.

Filters with higher merv ratings trap small particles more effectively than filters with lower merv ratings. Learn how to maintain your home and hvac this fall. Merv is short for minimum efficiency reporting value.