Filters with higher MERV indexes are more restrictive because they are capable of filtering more particles than filters with lower MERV indexes. This can lead to decreased airflow, which can have an unwanted effect on the cooling side of an air conditioner. The cold coil in the air handler has a specific preferred operating temperature that is based on a certain amount of hot air flowing through it and the refrigerant that passes through the copper tube in that coil. If a higher MERV filter reduces airflow through this crucial part of the air conditioning system, the cold coil can eventually freeze and turn into an ice ball, completely restricting airflow and causing costly problems in the outer capacitor coil.
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) suggests a MERV 13 rating, but this may not be the most efficient option for some residential HVAC systems. In fact, a MERV 11 may even be too restrictive. It is best to follow the oven manufacturer's recommendations or consult an HVAC professional to determine exactly which MERV rating is best for your specific system. A MERV rating of 13 to 16 is considered to be hospital-grade air quality, so it is unlikely that your home will need more than that rating.
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, filters in the 7-13 range usually have little difference from the highest MERV ratings, but they will allow the system to operate much more efficiently. The lowest MERV rating (1-), will still capture pollen, dust mites, cockroach debris, sanding dust, spray paint dust, textile fibers and carpet fibers. If your home air conditioning system is not capable of supporting a MERV 13 filter, opt for a filter with the next highest possible rating. When choosing between MERV 8 and MERV 13 filters, you must consider what you want to filter from the air and why. The MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) scale is used to classify air filters based on their effectiveness in trapping contaminants.
The higher the MERV rating of a filter, the fewer dust particles and other contaminants can pass through it. While the air filter is designed to control the amount of unwanted air particles entering your home, the MERV rating of the filter is intended to show you which filter is the most suitable for your home. A MERV 8 filter can capture pollen while a MERV 13 filter can capture other microscopic allergens that can reduce symptoms in allergy sufferers. Filter technology has grown by leaps and bounds over the years, and the MERV ratings are designed to help us determine the most effective and efficient air filter options for heating and cooling systems, among others. Filters with higher MERV ratings must be changed more frequently (at least every three months) to avoid airflow restriction, which can cause the system to operate inefficiently or even damage it. Understanding the MERV ratings, the differences between ratings, and the factors to consider when choosing a filter can ensure good indoor air quality for you and your family.
A higher MERV rating often means lower airflow, which can make the system work harder and use more energy to do its job. If your boiler's MERV rating is too high, it can force it to work too hard and be exposed to damage. A MERV 8 filter may be sufficient for some homes, while others would benefit from a MERV 13 filter. It is important to understand how different filters work in order to make an informed decision about which one is best for your home's air conditioning system. Knowing what type of particles you want to remove from your home's air will help you decide which type of filter will work best for you. When selecting an air filter for your home's HVAC system, it is important to consider both efficiency and cost.
A higher efficiency filter may cost more initially but may save money in energy costs over time. Additionally, selecting a filter with a higher efficiency rating may improve indoor air quality by removing more particles from your home's air. Choosing an appropriate MERV rating for your home's HVAC system can be difficult without professional guidance. Consulting an HVAC professional or following manufacturer recommendations can help ensure that you select a filter that meets your needs without compromising efficiency or indoor air quality.
