When it comes to air filtration, MERV 8 is one of the most popular ratings used in residential buildings. This rating indicates that the filter is capable of trapping around 80% of the particles suspended in the air, including dust, mold, pollen, mites, bacteria and pet dander. It also blocks contaminants in the 3.0-10 micron range and other larger particles. The MERV rating is set on a scale of 1 to 16, with 1 being the lowest level of filtration and 16 being the highest.
For most homes and commercial buildings, filters with a MERV rating between 8 and 13 will be sufficient for filtering the air. MERV 9 to 12 filters are effective for controlling humidifier dust, lead dust, vehicle emissions and welding fumes. In addition to 70% of E3 particles, it also filters 30% of E2 particles and 1.9% of E1 particles (0.3-1.0 µm).To keep your energy bill low and your HVAC components free from damage, you should check your air filter regularly. For more than 50 years, Camfil has supplied filtering devices as part of its commitment to providing clean air solutions in various sectors. The minimum efficiency report value (MERV) indicates the efficiency of an air filter at its lowest performance level. Strict building codes and increased foot traffic generally mean that commercial properties should opt for a filter with a higher MERV rating. It's generally the most affordable air filtering option, and for most homes, it's an adequate way to keep the air healthy.
To learn which MERV rating is best for your specific needs, it's important to first understand what a MERV rating is and what it means for your air filter.
