Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) measures how efficient your air filter is at removing airborne pollutants and contaminants. The higher the rating, the better the filter is at improving overall air quality. That said, a filter with the highest rating might not be right for your home.
Filters with higher MERV ratings are typically thicker, so HVAC systems have to use more energy to circulate air. For homes, MERV 5–8 filters are suitable as they get rid of the majority of common pollutants and contaminants. If you suffer from allergies or other respiratory issues, we’d recommend using a filter with a MERV rating of between 9 and 12.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, “the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has recommended since early May that office buildings and other indoor spaces upgrade their air filters to MERV-13, based on guidance from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)” — Fortune Magazine.
If you'd like further guidance on which MERV rating is right for you, please get in touch with one of our consultants.