When it comes to air filtration, the higher the MERV rating, the better. MERV 16 is one of the highest ratings for air filtration systems, trapping almost as much as a HEPA filter. It can remove particles from 0.3 to 1 micron in size with ease. Previously, 65%, 85%, 95%, 98% and 99%, with MERV-11, MERV-13 and MERV-14 being the most widely used high-efficiency air filters in the United States.
Filtration Systems offers a free consultation to help you sort through all of these options and, through our relationships with more than a dozen manufacturers and a certified energy savings program, Filtration Systems can determine a truly unique, long-lasting, energy-efficient solution for your installation or campus. All air furnaces and central air conditioning units can handle MERV 16 filters; however, since MERV 16 filters tend to be quite deep compared to traditional filters, the installation of a dedicated aftermarket housing is required, which is not always feasible. In most cases, a MERV 16 furnace and an AC filter would offer twice the efficiency of a MERV 13 filter at the submicron level. Merv 11 air filters may not trap as many tiny particles as a HEPA filter, but they are cost-effective and work with a variety of types of HVAC systems.
MERV 8 is known to be effective at filtering contaminants such as pollen, dust mites, sawdust, mold spores, and lint from the air; however, higher MERV ratings will clean the air even more efficiently.
