Yes, MERV 8 is usually the best compromise for car air conditioning systems. The Merv 11 works well with a 4-medium filter, but you may still need to increase the size of the return air. MERV 5-7 air filters can be used as pre-filters or as final filters, and they are suitable for commercial buildings as well as residential air conditioning. Some people also choose them as less effective filters in small industrial workspaces.
The popularity of MERV 8 filters is due to their affordability and ease of maintenance. Depending on the manufacturer, they can last three to six months and even up to a year in residential use. It's a common misconception that the MERV 11 is too high for most people, but this isn't true for those with multiple pets or mild respiratory illnesses. It is also suitable for people living in smog-contaminated areas.
The MERV 11 air filter is not the right choice for those without pets or respiratory problems, as it can result in restricted airflow. Air filters with higher ratings can also have negative effects on HVAC components. MERV 8 filters are a good choice for a typical home or business that only cares about keeping their HVAC system working properly. They outperform fiberglass filters while being affordably priced, and they can capture particles larger than 3 micrometers, enough to trap pollen, dust and common waste. However, MERV 8 filters don't work to keep the air in your commercial business or residence clean and free from particles such as viruses and bacteria.
For some people, the two MERV ratings are similar, making it difficult to choose the air filter that best suits their needs. Air filters with lower numbers can only trap and control large particles, such as pollen and sandpaper dust. A MERV 8 air filter is effective at trapping most indoor particles that could weaken people with asthma and allergies, or even cause long-term respiratory problems. In addition, air pollutants can create both short-term and long-term problems for people with healthy respiratory systems. To understand which MERV rating is best for your specific needs, it's important to first understand what a MERV rating is and what it means for your air filter (an acronym for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value).
Smog and construction: If you're in an area with a lot of construction, factories, or pollution, using a MERV 13 filter will keep indoor air cleaner. MERV 1 to 4: Effective for controlling larger particles, such as sanding dust, spray paint dust, lint and carpet fibers. Maintaining indoor air quality in a business or work environment is critical, not only for comfort but also for the health and safety of customers and employees. For more than 50 years, Camfil has provided filter devices as part of its commitment to providing clean air solutions in a number of industries. If you choose to use an air filter with a higher rating than your current situation requires, you could be putting yourself and your family at risk. Choosing the right MERV rating is essential when it comes to keeping your home or business safe from airborne contaminants.
A MERV 8 filter is usually the best option for car air conditioning systems because it offers an affordable price point while still providing adequate protection from large particles like pollen and dust.