What Is a MERV Rating for a Home Air Filter?
By Travis Baugh
A MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating is a standard measurement scale from 1 to 20 that indicates how effectively an air filter captures airborne particles. A higher MERV rating signifies the filter has a tighter weave, making it better at trapping smaller contaminants like dust, pollen, and pet dander to improve indoor air quality.
Why MERV Ratings Matter for Your Home
Taking control of your home's air quality starts with understanding your filter. The right MERV rating protects your family’s health by removing allergens and pollutants, while also safeguarding your HVAC system from debris buildup.
However, choosing the highest number isn't always the best strategy. You must balance superior filtration with your system's airflow capabilities to avoid straining your equipment.
The MERV Rating Scale Explained
Developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), this scale helps homeowners categorize filter performance.
- MERV 1-4 (Basic Filtration): Provides basic filtration, capturing large particles like dust and pollen. These are common in residential settings where standard air quality is sufficient.
- MERV 5-8 (Better Filtration): Offers better filtration for homes with pets or moderate allergies, trapping more fine dust and pet dander.
- MERV 9-12 (Superior Filtration): Delivers superior air quality by capturing even smaller particles. This range is ideal for households with allergy sufferers.
- MERV 13-16 (Exceptional Filtration): Provides exceptional filtration, capable of trapping tiny particles like bacteria and smoke, which is ideal for creating extremely clean indoor environments.
How Do I Choose the Right MERV Rating for My Home?
Selecting the perfect filter requires a balance between clean air and system efficiency. As the MERV rating increases, the filter material becomes denser. While this traps more dirt, it also creates resistance against the airflow.
Chris Houchin, co-owner of The Weather Changers in Denver, Colorado, cautions homeowners who think getting the highest MERV rating filter possible is the best route to go.
“I’m a firm believer in not purchasing an air filter with too high of a MERV rating,” Houchin said. “As the MERV rating increases, the filter becomes denser and restricts airflow. When the filter is too dense, it’s almost like the air is hitting a brick wall—it can’t move through your system efficiently. That lack of airflow makes your HVAC system work harder and can cause it to take longer to heat or cool your home. Choosing a filter that allows proper airflow is always the better option.”
Consider these factors to find the right balance:
1. Assess Your Specific Needs
- Allergies: For family members with allergies, a higher MERV rating of 11-13 is effective at trapping common allergens like pollen, mold spores, and pet dander. Learn more about the best air purifier for allergies.
- Pets: If you have pets, a filter with a MERV rating of 8-13 will help capture pet hair and dander, keeping your air cleaner.
- Dust and Pollen Sensitivity: A MERV rating between 10-13 is excellent for capturing fine dust and pollen particles that can irritate sensitive individuals. Learn more about the best air purifier for dust.
2. Check Your HVAC System's Compatibility
Before upgrading to a high-efficiency filter, verify your HVAC system's specifications. Using a MERV 13 filter in a system designed for MERV 8 can reduce efficiency, spike energy bills, and potentially damage the blower motor due to airflow restriction.
3. Consider Filter Change Frequency
Filters with a higher MERV rating capture more particles, which means they often get clogged faster and need to be replaced more frequently. Regularly checking and changing your filter ensures your system runs efficiently and maintains clean indoor air.
“No matter what filter you buy, make sure you’re checking and changing it regularly,” Houchin said. “A dirty filter restricts airflow and lets particles recirculate into your home’s air. Replacing it when it starts to get dirty helps your system run efficiently and keeps your indoor air cleaner.”
How Do I Maintain My MERV Filter?
To ensure optimal performance, check your furnace filter filter monthly. Most standard filters need replacing every 1 to 3 months, though homes with high pollen counts or multiple pets may require more frequent changes.
If you require hospital-grade air quality without compromising your HVAC system, consider advanced solutions like the Evolution Air Purifier. It utilizes a specialized MERV 15 filter designed to maintain proper airflow.
Find the Right MERV Rating with a Bryant Dealer
Choosing the perfect MERV rating balances clean air with system efficiency. A trained Bryant dealer can assess your home’s environment, your family’s health needs, and your HVAC system’s specifications to recommend the ideal solution.
Bryant offers advanced products like the Evolution Air Purifier, which features a long-lasting MERV 15 filter for superior air purification. Schedule an appointment with your local Bryant dealer to find the best MERV-rated filter for your home.
Schedule an appointment with your local Bryant dealer to find the best MERV-rated filter for you.
MERV Rating FAQs
A good MERV rating for most homes is between MERV 8 and MERV 13, as it balances airflow efficiency with effective filtration of dust, pollen, and other common allergens.
No, MERV 11 is not too high for residential use and offers enhanced filtration without significantly restricting airflow in most modern HVAC systems.
MERV 10 offers better filtration than MERV 8, capturing smaller particles like pet dander and finer dust, making it a better option if indoor air quality is a concern.
MERV 13 provides superior filtration, trapping smaller particles like bacteria and smoke, but MERV 11 is often preferred if your HVAC system can’t handle the airflow resistance of MERV 13.
Yes, high MERV filters can restrict airflow if your HVAC system isn’t designed for them, leading to reduced efficiency, higher heating and cooling bills, or system strain if not properly matched.
Not always. Some HVAC systems struggle with higher-resistance filters like MERV 13, so it’s best to check manufacturer guidelines before purchasing a MERV 13 filter.
Yes. Filters with higher ratings can restrict airflow if the system isn’t designed for them, reducing efficiency and performance.
Filters rated MERV 13 or higher can capture smaller airborne particles, including some virus-sized particles, though full air purification may require a whole-home purifier.
