Ever walked into the store to purchase an air filter only to find shelves upon shelves of them and not know which one to choose? It’s a common dilemma most homeowners face. In cases like these, it’s easy to go for the cheapest but you might not be getting the best one for you. It’s a simple task that, when done with lack of information and thought, could easily have serious effects on indoor air.
What Kind of Air Filter Is Best for Indoor Air Quality?
- MERV 8 to MERV 13 filters: Ideal for most homes, capturing dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and other common airborne particles.
- Balanced filtration and airflow: These filters improve indoor air quality without restricting your HVAC system’s performance.
- Higher MERV ratings: Provide greater particle removal but may reduce airflow if your system is not designed for them.
- HEPA filters: Trap very fine particles like smoke and microscopic allergens but typically require specialized equipment or standalone air purifiers.
What Is a MERV Rating and Why Does It Matter for Your Air Filter?
The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value ranks air filters according to how well they do their job at preventing air particles from entering your home and spreading around. It’s a scale of 1 to 20 with 1 as the lowest and 20 as the highest. While it sounds like getting the filter with the highest rating would be the smartest thing to do, not all HVAC systems were designed to carry powerful filters. Check if your HVAC fan can handle at least a MERV 16 filter. You can easily find this information in the manual but if you no longer have it, or the manual doesn’t state it, you can do a simple experiment.
Begin with lower rated air filters and move up a rank with every filter. Observe your HVAC and how it handles the new filter and check for signs of strain. You can also ask your trusted HVAC maintenance company for recommendations.
Other Air Filter Rating Scales You Should Know
Since the MERV isn’t mandatory, you might notice other brands using a different ranking system for their own filters. If you decide to opt for a filter from one of these, get to know their rating scale by doing a little research. Simply ask the manufacturers or go online. The information should be readily available. Do this before you decide to make your purchase.
Types of Mechanical Air Filters for Home HVAC Systems
Fiberglass: It’s the thinnest and simplest in design among the four and do the poorest job when it comes to improving air quality because it wasn’t made to do that. It’s purpose is only to protect your equipment and cost roughly around a dollar each.
MERV Rating: 1-4
Pleated: The higher the number of pleats per foot, the better the airflow which means it passes through the filter more frequently, giving you cleaner air each time. It shields your home from up to 45% of air pollutants at around $10 a piece. For homeowners looking to boost air quality affordably, pleated filters can be a smart and affordable choice.
MERV Rating: 10-13
High-efficiency: These filters offer the best value for residential owners. They can pick up extremely small particles and some come coated with bacteria-killing chemicals so your air isn’t only clean but safer and healthier. Other filters are created similar to your car’s air filter. Because of their highly efficient nature, hence the name, expect your operating costs to drop. They can filter up to 85% of pollutants from your indoor air and work well when combined with enhanced whole-home ventilation tips to ensure consistent air circulation.
MERV Rating: 14-16
True HEPA (or High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters: It’s the most effective in improving air quality but they’re normally not used for homes. Because of the gaps for airflow are so small, in order to filter 98% of air pollutants, they need stronger air pressure which most home HVAC systems don’t have.
MERV Rating: 17-20
Still trying to determine what air filter will work for your unit? Call Johnny’s today at (725) 977-9461 and we will help you determine what is right for your home!
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What does the MERV rating on an air filter mean?
Answer: The MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, measures how effectively an air filter captures airborne particles. The scale ranges from 1 to 20. Higher numbers indicate better filtration of smaller particles, but not every HVAC system is designed to handle the highest ratings without affecting airflow.
Question: What MERV rating is best for most homes?
Answer: For most residential HVAC systems, a MERV rating between 8 and 11 offers a strong balance between air filtration and system performance. These filters capture common pollutants like dust, pollen, and pet dander while still allowing proper airflow through the system.
Question: Are HEPA filters a good choice for residential HVAC systems?
Answer: True HEPA filters capture extremely small particles and provide advanced filtration. However, most standard home HVAC systems are not designed to handle the airflow resistance of HEPA filters. They are typically used in standalone air purifiers or specialized systems.
Question: What type of air filter is recommended for better indoor air quality?
Answer: Pleated air filters are commonly recommended for improving indoor air quality. They offer better particle capture than basic fiberglass filters and are available in various MERV ratings. Choosing the right pleated filter depends on your home’s air quality needs and HVAC system compatibility.
Question: How do I choose the right air filter for my HVAC system?
Answer: Start by checking your HVAC manufacturer’s recommendations for compatible MERV ratings. Then consider your indoor air concerns, such as allergies or pets. A mid range pleated filter is often ideal for general use, while higher rated options may benefit households with respiratory sensitivities.
Continue Reading
Tags: Air Filters, Air Purifier, Indoor Air Quality
Posted in Indoor Air Quality | Comments Off on What Kind Of Air Filter Is The Best?
702-564-6697