Why MERV Ratings Are Important
MERV ratings are important to understand before choosing an AC Air Filter. If you have pets, or are prone to allergies and respiratory issues, you want to do everything possible to ensure the air you are breathing inside your home is clean.
There are several things you can do to maintain the cleanliness of your air. Today we will explore one piece of advice: Check the MERV rating on your current air filter.
What Is A MERV Rating?
MERV is an acronym for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It measures how effectively your air filter is capturing unwanted airborne particles. Before we explain MERV ratings, let’s talk about your air filter.
Your AC air filter is designed to keep the air you breathe everyday inside your home clean by capturing and trapping contaminants. Examples of unwanted particles include dust, pollen, pet hair, fibers and other solids. In addition, your air filter can trap microorganisms such as viruses, mold spores, germs and bacteria that can trigger allergies, asthma or cause illness and disease.
Which MERV Rating Is Right For You?
The answer depends on your lifestyle, household, and AC system. MERV ratings are measured on a scale of 1-16. The higher a MERV rating, the higher the amount of particles the filter traps.
A filter with a very high rating may seem like the logical answer. However, there’s more to the story. If you choose an air filter based on the highest rating, it can actually have a reverse effect. Even though it’s doing a good job of blocking contaminants, the thickness of the filter is preventing good air from circulating in your home. This can result in poor air quality for you and your family.
A Word Of Caution
Your filter and system need to work in harmony. Therefore, when the air flow is struggling, your AC system is working harder.
If you consistently use a filter with a MERV rating that’s not compatible with your equipment, you may damage your AC, resulting in unexpected repairs. In addition, you may also experience inefficiency in your equipment, and increased energy costs.
In general, a MERV rating between 8 and 13 is ideal for the typical home. It is always best to check with your AC manufacturer, or contact us for recommendations.
Call Us For Advice
Sunset Air and Home Services has been serving SW Florida homeowners just like you, for over 20 years. The foundation of our culture is finding the right solution for our clients and never selling them something they don’t need.
Contact Us for more information. 239-693-9005
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