The higher the Merv rating, the more restrictive the filter will be. In addition, a MERV filter 12 that is only 1 (one inch) thick is designed to provide better indoor air quality (IAQ) for everyone, especially those with allergies, asthma, COPD, and other respiratory conditions. But is a MERV 12 filter too restrictive for your HVAC system? The short answer is yes, but it's not really a problem, except in extreme circumstances. Most modern HVAC systems have no problem working with higher MERV filters, which is why millions of homeowners depend on them.
The main risk of high-efficiency air filters comes from the fact that they are not modified for long periods of time. If you keep abreast of changing filters, you are unlikely to experience any filter related issues with your HVAC system. When installing an air cleaner with a high MERV rating, two things happen: first, your air becomes cleaner, which can help improve the longevity of your HVAC system. The more particles that are trapped, the less they will get stuck inside the vent and the better the airflow. In general, a filter with a higher Merv rating will reduce airflow. However, there are many other factors at play, such as the size of the filter and the type of fan motor in your HVAC system.
If you have pets or someone in your household has significant allergy problems, you may want to consider a higher MERV value, between 8 and 10. AC Troubleshooting: If this problem occurs after installing a high MERV filter, the problem is probably the filter. One of the most common causes of HVAC problems is a clogged air filter, which can cause system failure. I am thinking of testing an air filter together with a non-woven material similar to the one used in N95 masks. I think it's best to insert the filter into a mask pocket, but I've found that such masks are difficult to make (the sides become very thick and inserting the filter into the pleated mask doesn't fully reach edge to edge). If your home's HVAC system is unable to handle MERV 13, opt for a filter with the next highest possible rating.
Homeowners should check the air filter monthly to assess its condition and determine if a replacement is warranted. A MERV 9 will trap less than 50% of particles with a size of 1.0-3.0 microns, the MERV 10 will stop up to 64%, the Merv 11 will get up to 79% and the MERV 12 is capable of trapping up to 89%. From sizes to types, grades and more, here's everything you need to know about air filters. Filters and masks can be disinfected, from what I read somewhere, in an oven at a low temperature, following very specific guidelines. In a nutshell, these filters will have the least restriction on airflow and will trap the smallest volume of particles. A filter with a flat surface is usually made of fiberglass, while pleated filters are usually made of polyester or cotton paper. I just watched a Facebook video from AI I just watched a Facebook video of a British doctor who says vacuum bags are NOT safe for masks, as they contain fiberglass, which is very bad for breath (and worse when bags have been cut to make inserts).
YES, however, MERV air filters are made of polyester and cotton and must be safe. Merv 11 air filters are a bit more expensive than a standard filter but paying a few dollars more per filter is generally worth the extra efficiency. In conclusion, while it's true that higher Merv ratings can be more restrictive on airflow in some cases, they also provide better indoor air quality and can help extend the life of your HVAC system. If you have pets or someone in your household has significant allergy problems or other respiratory conditions, it may be worth investing in an air cleaner with a higher Merv rating.
However, if your home's HVAC system is unable to handle MERV 13 or higher filters without compromising performance or efficiency, opt for one with the next highest possible rating.
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