When it comes to air conditioning systems, air flow is a critical factor for performance and longevity. But how does the MERV rating of an air filter affect air flow? The answer is yes, but it's not usually a problem. Most modern HVAC systems can handle higher MERV filters, which is why millions of homeowners rely on them. A higher MERV rating means greater resistance, which can lead to reduced air flow.
This can reduce comfort, increase energy use, and accelerate the wear and tear of air conditioning components. If an air filter with a MERV rating that is too high is used, it can damage the compressor, heat exchanger, and air conditioner coil. To make it easier to decide which filter will work best, here's a comparison chart that highlights the differences between MERV 8 and MERV 11 filters. A MERV 11 air filter can offer additional benefits and capture a wider range of particles that would pass through a MERV 8 filter. If someone has an allergy or respiratory problem, choose a MERV 11 air filter or even a MERV 13 air filter. Since the MERV classification system is standard, it makes it easier to compare filters with different MERV ratings.
Low-efficiency filters are usually within the MERV 1-4 range and high-efficiency filters are those of the MERV 13 and later versions. Raising only three MERV rating levels can be a smart decision that makes the air cleaner, or a harmful option for the entire air conditioning system, considering the air flow capacity of the MERV 8 versus the MERV 11.A higher MERV rating may mean slightly more restricted airflow; however, most current HVAC systems are capable of handling a MERV 11 air filter without adding stress to the system. One thing to keep in mind is that a MERV 11 air filter may need to be changed more frequently than a MERV 8 air filter. The MERV scale is not linear; the difference between a MERV 6 and a MERV 8 is almost double in terms of the percentage of particles captured. Based on these characteristics, a MERV 8 is considered a superior filter compared to air filters with a lower MERV rating. In conclusion, when selecting an air filter for your HVAC system, it's important to consider both the FPR (Filter Performance Rating) and the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings.
The FPR rating indicates how well the filter will capture particles while the MERV rating indicates how much resistance there will be to airflow. A higher FPR rating means better filtration while a higher MERV rating means more resistance to airflow. It's important to choose an appropriate filter for your system so that you get optimal performance without damaging your system.
