Air filters collect debris circulating in your HVAC system’s ductwork. They keep your air clean, and minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) ratings designate their efficiency. You should understand this rating system to ensure you’re taking all the necessary steps to achieve clean air in your home or office.

Oh, come on...what the heck are these MERV ratings, anyway?

Dust, pollen, pet dander, bacteria, and other contaminants can all circulate through your HVAC system. Your filter’s MERV rating indicates how well it can capture these. Aside from achieving clean air, these filters also capture particles that could enter your HVAC system. If they collect over time, your parts will slow down and create unnecessary strain.

Choosing filters with the highest MERV ratings doesn’t always mean you’re getting the best service. Screens over 12 are less efficient in homes because they’re for commercial and industrial facilities. They may inhibit airflow, increasing utility bills.   In fact, we find the large-box home improvement stores carry some of the very high efficient filters (some with  big name recognition!) and we REMOVE them immediately if we find them on the job.   Consistently, they create too much strain on your residential blower motor and lead to breakdowns/expensive repairs.  You can thank us later if you remove yours!  Find the recommended MERV rating in your HVAC system’s manual.

What Are the Different Ratings?

1-4 MERV Rating

MERV 1-4 filters offer basic filtration. They’re often fiberglass and will catch dust, carpet fibers, insect waste, and allergens like pollen. This represents roughly 20% of particles that could be in the ductwork. Check these filters at least once a month and change them when necessary.

5-8 MERV Rating

MERV 5-8 filters use cotton-polyester and a dense design to capture smaller particles—up to 35% of potential contaminants. These include mold spores, dust mites, and fine dust, along with the pollutants MERV 1-4 can capture. These are ideal for homeowners with light allergies that don’t want allergens circulating in their homes. Generally, you must replace these filters every three months.

9-12 MERV Rating

MERV 9-12 premium filters capture auto emissions, bacteria, tiny particles, and cigarette smoke. They can address up to 65% of common contaminants, making them ideal for homes and some commercial properties. They use a bag or pleated filter system for superior capture, and if you choose the right size, you can count on extended, effective service.

If you have specific health conditions and allergies, please let us know.  We have products designed to treat the air in your home for your comfort and good health.

If you need assistance with HVAC upgrades, Wright Heating & Cooling can help. This heating and cooling contractor has 65 years of experience and serves residential and commercial clients throughout Summit and Portage counties in NE Ohio. Whether you need repairs or installations, they’ll ensure you get lasting use from your system. Call (330) 673-3507 to speak with a representative and connect on Facebook for residential and commercial HVAC tips. Explore their services further online.