Are you considering using a Merv 8 filter? Before you buy one, there are a few things you should know. While these filters do a great job of trapping pollen, dust, mold and other basic air pollutants, they are not ideal if you have allergies or pets. In addition, if you live near smoke pollution, we recommend that you choose a filter with a higher Merv rating. A Merv 8 filter is considered superior filtration compared to air filters with a lower Merv rating.
But is filtration enough? In many cases, a Merv 8 air filter is more than adequate. However, if you are concerned about outdoor air pollution, family members with respiratory problems, or pets in the house, then a higher merv rating might be a good idea. Merv scores of 5-8 mean 85 to 90% of particles will be trapped in the filter. This is the most common type of filter recommended by HVAC technicians, but it doesn't capture all allergens. However, these filters can be up to eight times more effective than fiberglass filters.
Filters with a Merv rating of 9 to 12 are standard in both domestic and commercial environments. These filters can capture contaminants and contaminants such as coal dust, lead, insecticides, vehicle emissions, ground flour, welding fumes and paint pigments. In addition, filters rated 9 to 12 are for installations and homes that have a greater need for better air quality in homes, workplaces, and commercial buildings. Applicable to most commercial buildings, residences, industrial workplaces and paint booths. The Merv 8 filter is the minimum standard air filter we recommend for residential use. But if you simply need a filter to trap pollen, dust mites, and hair, a Merv 8 filter should definitely do its job.
This comparison table helps highlight the differences between the Merv 8 and Merv 11 filters to make it easier to decide which one works best. It won't put additional pressure on your oven either, as the material mesh isn't as dense as a higher Merv rating. Merv 8 air filters are almost as affordable as less efficient products, making them good value for money. Although the American Society of Heating, Cooling and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) suggests Merv 13, it may not be the most efficient option for some residential HVAC systems. The common air filter in residential applications today generally has a Merv rating between Merv 5 and Merv 13. Merv 13 filters are ideal for commercial and residential environments that want and need higher air quality.
One thing to keep in mind is that a Merv 11 air filter may need to be changed a little more frequently than a Merv 8 air filter. Although Merv 8 is known to be effective at filtering contaminants such as pollen, dust mites, sawdust, mold spores, and lint from the air, higher Merv ratings will clean the air even more. If you're trying to choose between a Merv 8 air filter and a Merv 11 air filter, here's what you need to know. The lowest ratings, Merv 1 - 8, are the least efficient at filtering particles but they do allow the lowest air resistance. Filters with higher Merv ratings should be changed more frequently (at least every three months) to avoid restricted airflow that can cause the system to operate inefficiently or even damage it. This is a good option for homes with pets or for those looking for even better air quality than what the Merv 8 can provide. The higher the Merv rating, the greater the overpressure or air resistance the filter could put in your HVAC system.
