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One of the most common heating system repairs is changing the HVAC filter. The filter protects the blower fan from dust, debris, and other particles. It also improves your home’s air quality. There are different types of air filters, so ensure you have the right one by understanding minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) ratings.

What MERV Means

This measures the effectiveness of air filters, representing the worst possible performance that a filter can have when handling particles in a range of 0.3 micrometers to 10 micrometers. The numbers are determined in a lab by measuring the amount of particles on either side of the filter. MERV ratings range from 1 to 20, with 20 being the most efficient. Your heating system repair professional can help you pick the wisest filter for your situation.

MERV Ratings

heating system repairThree MERV ratings can help you determine which type of filter to buy. First, MERV 8 filters catch 70% or more of particles between 3 micrometers and 10 micrometers and 20% of particles between 1 micrometer and 3 micrometers.

MERV 11 filters catch at least 85% of particles between 3 micrometers and 10 micrometers, 65% of particles between 1 micrometer and 2 micrometers, and 20% of particles between 0.3 micrometers and 1 micrometer.

Filters that fall into the MERV 13 category filter 90% of particles between 3 micrometers and 10 micrometers, 85% between 1 micrometer and 3 micrometers, and 50% of particles between 0.3 micrometers and 1 micrometer.

How to Determine the MERV Rating for You

It might seem like you should choose the filter with the highest MERV rating. However, this isn’t always the case. Some HVAC systems aren’t made to handle filters with a high MERV, as they can restrict the airflow in your home. These filters can put too much pressure on your furnace and cause unnecessary heating system repairs.

Find the highest-rated MERV filter that will still cause your specific system to run properly. Research online or ask a heating system repair professional for guidance when they perform an inspection or tuneup.

 

If you need help with an air filter or another heating system repair, contact the professional technicians at Cowboy’s Heating & Air. They serve the Miami Valley of Ohio and the entire Tri-State area. Their staff offers reliable HVAC repairs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can install new systems. Visit their website or call (937) 604-1541 for a free quote.

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