Why MERV Should Matter To You

There are many important aspects of your home...but chances, are you don't count the efficiency rating of your furnace filter as one of them. However, if you don't, you should! Your furnace filter plays a key role in the quality of air that you breathe, the cleanliness of your home, as well as the lifespan of your furnace. In order to take care of your home properly, it is essential that you pay attention to the rating of your furnace air filter.
The efficiency level of your furnace filter is rated by an industry-wide standard, known as MERV (which stands for minimum efficiency reporting value). This rating system gives different types of filters, regardless of brand or size, a rating from 1 to 16. Less efficient filters are typically rated between 1 and 4. They are usually inexpensive and do not trap small airborne particles like dust, dirt, and other contaminants, all that well. Filters with a MERV rating between 5 and 8 trap more small particles than those lower rated filters but are not the most efficient on the market. On the other hand, filters between 9 and 12 are ideal for residential spaces as they can reduce the amount of allergens in the air. Higher MERV rated filters, from 12 to 16, are incredibly effective at trapping both large and small airborne particles - however, they may not work as well in an older furnace.
Since there are so many different MERV ratings to choose from, it is important to understand what will work best for your home and your particular furnace. You'll need to consider the age of your furnace model, environmental factors (such as whether there are any pets or smokers living in your home), and the level of efficiency you want from your furnace air filter. All of these factors will help you to make an informed decision - and help you benefit your home.
Now that you know what MERV is, you're probably wondering: why does it matter? MERV should matter to all homeowners! It is an essential part of keeping your home safe and your furnace working effectively throughout the year. MERV ratings make you more aware of how well your filter is able to trap airborne particles. This is important, as using an efficient furnace filter can benefit your home in many different ways.
One of the benefits of considering MERV before you choose your furnace air filter? A more efficiently working furnace. Think about it this way: the more dust and dirt your filter can trap, the fewer contaminants that are able to get into your furnace. This can make it work more efficiently and even give it a longer lifespan. In addition, paying attention to MERV can improve the quality of the air in your home, benefit the overall health of you and your family members, and even improve the cleanliness of your space. So, always be aware of MERV and choose your furnace filter accordingly. Doing so will benefit your home - and the people living in it.
MERV matters to your home, so make sure that it matters to you, too. If you aren't sure what type of efficiency rating is best, always speak to an experienced professional. They can use their knowledge and experience to point you in the right direction. Want to take care of your home? Start with your furnace filter!
Or Sela understands why MERV should matter to you. 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.