What Is MERV and Why Should You Care?

All air filters are not created equally. In fact, there is a big difference in the efficiency of different filters. The efficiency of your furnace air filter is important - it can mean the difference between clean air and well, kind of clean air. This is why it is important to understand how to tell the difference between furnace air filers. In order to do this, we need to understand MERV.
You're probably asking yourself, what is MERV? Well, MERV is a term that stands for minimum efficiency reporting value. The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioner Engineers, otherwise known as ASHRAE, coined this term. MERV essentially rates filters from 1 to 16 for overall efficiency. 1 is the lowest level of efficiency, while 16 signals the highest level of efficiency. This industry-wide rating system allows you to easily determine the efficiency of a filter, from any brand or manufacturer. This is a benefit to customers, as it helps to simplify the process of finding the right furnace air filter.

So, just what do the ratings really mean? When the MERV rating is higher, the filter will work more efficiently. That means that more particles like dust, dirt, and other contaminants in the air can be trapped inside the filter. Higher rated filters are typically better at filtering out those smaller particles that lower efficiently filters tend to miss. This means that the lower the MERV rating is, the less efficiently the filter is able to keep out smaller particles.
You know what MERV is, but you're probably still wondering why you should care. MERV may just be a rating system for filter efficiency, but it is also a way that you can improve the quality of air in your home. When your filters work better, the quality of air circulating in your home is improved. A higher quality filter can remove many of the dust, dirt, mold spores, dander, and other contaminants that can find their way into the air you breathe. Is it important to you and your family that you breathe in clean, properly filtered air? Then you may want to choose a filter with a slightly higher MERV rating. These filters may be slightly more expensive, but the difference certainly won't break the bank.
Another reason that MERV ratings matter to homeowners? These ratings ensure that your furnace or air conditioner system is always working to its' full capacity. When dust and dirt get into your heating or cooling system, it can impact the efficiency of the unit. It may slow down, need more energy to work well, or even need repairs. Proper filters can reduce or eliminate these issues, making MERV a simple way to keep your unit running efficiently. Simply put, filters with a higher MERV rating will make your heating and cooling system work better and will improve the quality of air in your home.
Be sure to change your furnace air filter whenever necessary. Just because you are using a filter with a high MERV rating doesn't mean that it doesn't need to be changed! Even with a high MERV rating, your filter may not work efficiently if it is too old or dirty. Keep an eye on your filter and be aware of how frequently it should be changed or cleaned. This will ensure that your filter and your furnace is always working as efficiently as possible.
MERV matters. Or at least, it should to you! If you want your furnace air filters to trap as many airborne contaminants as possible, than you need to pay attention to the MERV rating. It will make your life a lot easier - and can provide some important benefits to your home.
Or Sela understands the importance of the MERV rating. He currently works for Furnace Air Filters. It is his extensive knowledge of furnace filters and related services that allows him to fulfill the needs of his clients. On his site, Or offers great prices on Carrier, Honeywell, Lennox and many other brands.