When it comes to air filtration in your home, a MERV 11 air filter is often the best choice. This type of filter is more efficient than a MERV 8 filter, as it can capture smaller particles such as pet dander, dust mites, and self-emissions. It is also our most popular type of air filter, and is suitable for homes with pets or those looking for improved air quality. The MERV 5-8 range of filters can trap particles with a size of 3.0-10.0 microns, but are more efficient in doing so.
These filters are good at removing pollen, mold spores, and dust mites. For residential use, the standard recommendation is to choose an oven filter with a MERV rating between 7 and 13. The higher the MERV rating, the greater the overpressure or air resistance the filter could put in your HVAC system. The lowest ratings, MERV 1 - 8, are the least efficient at filtering particles, but they do allow the lowest air resistance. If you use a higher MERV rating that traps more particles, you may need to change the filter more often.
A MERV 5 filter will trap up to 34%, the MERV 6 will stop 35-49%, the MERV 7 will prevent up to 69%, and the MERV 8 will trap up to 85% of the particles. In other words, the higher the MERV rating, the greater the air filtration capabilities of a particular filter. If you're still not sure which MERV filter is best for your home, talk to an HVAC expert who can guide you to the right selection. With the Filter King filter selection tool, you can mark exactly the size, thickness and MERV rating you're looking for.
