Overall, our recommended MERV rating for furnace filters is between 6 and 8, providing an excellent balance between maximum furnace efficiency and home comfort.
Air filters with higher MERV ratings
can remove more airborne contaminants, but the downside is that airflow decreases due to greater air filter resistance. Before purchasing a new heating filter, make sure to check if your air conditioning system has a MERV limit. A new air filter must be installed before moving in, but that doesn't mean the landlord is responsible for replacing it.Choosing the right MERV rating for your furnace filter has a major impact on indoor air quality, the air conditioning system, and most importantly, your family's health. If your system can't meet the MERV ratings you need, there are other options to improve indoor air quality. You can use the following table to better understand how filters rated by FPR and MPR compare to the more standard MERV classification system. Additionally, you'll find a graph that can help you determine the MERV rating needed for a variety of configurations. Selecting the right MERV rating for your air filter is a balance between the capabilities of your HVAC system and the indoor air quality you want to achieve.
If your family has allergies or serious respiratory problems such as asthma, you may want to invest in filters with a higher MERV rating. You can also check out the microparticle performance rating system (MPR), which ranges from 300 to 2200 and measures the effectiveness of a filter to trap only the smallest particles on the MERV scale (0.3 to 1 micron in size). However, a better MERV rating doesn't always mean that a filter is the best choice for your furnace. In fact, as the MERV rating increases, airflow decreases, forcing the HVAC system to work harder to push air through the boiler, increasing the chance of potential breakdowns. An informational minimum efficiency value, or MERV, is a measurement system designed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).
Having filters with the right MERV ratings is essential to ensure that the air is well filtered without overloading the air conditioning system. Installing an appropriate MERV 8 filter in your home is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality and preventing potential health issues. To ensure that you get the best results from your new filter, it's important to use special tools and techniques when installing it. Make sure you follow all instructions carefully and use only approved tools and materials when installing your new filter.
