When it comes to air filters, the MERV rating is an important factor to consider. The MERV rating is a scale from 1 to 16 that describes the minimum efficiency of the air filter. 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. The higher the filter rating, the smaller the particles it will capture and the higher the percentage of particles captured. Low-efficiency filters are generally within MERV 1-4 and high-efficiency filters are MERV 13 and beyond. The MERV scale is not linear; the difference between a MERV 6 and a MERV 8 is almost double in the percentage of particles captured. Keep in mind that as the MERV rating increases, the filter becomes more restrictive and more pressure and energy will be needed to propel the air. When it comes to Merv 8 vs Merv 11, there is a big difference.
A Merv 11 filter is more efficient than a Merv 8 filter because it can capture smaller particles. It offers additional protection against pet dander, dust mites, self-emissions, and dust that damages the lungs. This is a good option for homes with pets or those looking for even better air quality than what the Merv 8 can provide. A Merv 11 filter can capture between 65% and 79% of the smallest particles, which may not seem like a significant difference compared to the Merv 8 filter. But this small difference can make a big impact on your home's air quality.
If someone has an allergy or respiratory problem, choose a Merv 11 air filter or even a Merv 13 air filter. Getting an air filter with a higher MERV rating is a great way to keep your home comfortable for you and your four-legged household members. They're more expensive than Merv 8 filters, but they're still easy to find and won't break the bank. This rating is more efficient than Merv 8 and 11 with the ability to filter even more allergens from the air. With the Filter King filter selection tool, you can mark exactly the size, thickness and MERV rating you're looking for. While not used as much in residential homes, Merv 13 filters can be an excellent choice for commercial buildings or medical facilities that require next-level air purity. In conclusion, when it comes to choosing an air filter for your home, it's important to consider your needs and budget.
A Merv 8 filter is usually sufficient for most households but if you have pets or family members with respiratory problems, then you may want to consider getting a higher MERV rating such as Merv 11 or 13.
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