MERV is short for “Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value”. A higher MERV rating means a higher resistance, which means less airflow. When researching HVAC systems, airflow will come up a lot.
What MERV rating is best for air flow?
If your unit is older and/or very sensitive with airflow, use a filter that ranks from MERV 1 up to possibly MERV 6. If you want your air to at least be cleaned and handle dust, mold, pollen, and bacteria, then a MERV 8 will do the job.
Does MERV 13 filters restrict air flow?
MERV 13 air filters are the highest-rated air filters for home use. Any air filter with a rating higher than 13 will restrict air flow to the point of which could cause damage to your HVAC system, resulting in an added expense to fix it.
How do I increase AC airflow?
- Unblock AC Vents. Your AC system flows in a circular pattern.
- Clean AC Vents. AC vents tend to accumulate dust and debris floating in your house.
- Check Your Filters.
- Find and Fix Leaks.
- Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance.
Do higher for filters restrict airflow?
Generally, a filter with a higher MERV ratingMERV ratingMinimum Efficiency Reporting Value, commonly known as MERV, is a measurement scale designed in 1987 by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) to report the effectiveness of air filters in more detail than other ratings.https://en.wikipedia.org › Minimum_efficiency_reporting_valueMinimum efficiency reporting value - Wikipedia will reduce airflow. However, there are many other factors at play such as the size of the filter and the type of blower motor in your HVAC system.
Does a MERV 11 filter restrict airflow?
A MERV 11 air filter has a higher efficiency rating. Air filters with higher MERV ratings can filter more, but the thickness of the filter material can restrict airflow. Restricted airflow can decrease comfort, increase energy use, and accelerate the wear and tear of HVAC components.
How much do air filters restrict air flow?
Air filters contribute to TESP by reducing the total external static pressure in the system. This means that using an air filter will reduce the amount of airflow in your HVAC system. Most residential homes are designed to have no less than 0.5 in.
Is a MERV 11 filter too restrictive?
Air filters with higher MERV ratings can filter more, but the thickness of the filter material can restrict airflow. Restricted airflow can decrease comfort, increase energy use, and accelerate the wear and tear of HVAC components. In most cases, a MERV 11 air filter isn't too high for residential use.
What's a disadvantage of the highest MERV rated filters?
One disadvantage of the highest MERV rated filters is that: The pressure drop across high MERV filters is more.
Does higher MERV reduce air flow?
While the highest MERV ratings are the most effective for air quality, they can harm your HVAC system. A higher MERV rating means a higher resistance, which means less airflow.