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MERV in the HVAC world stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, a value that lets us know the size of particles an air filter is designed to grab. Higher MERV ratings are more effective at capturing smaller particles. That’s why hospitals tend to use MERV 16 or higher, to capture the most pollutants possible.

Although lower MERV rated filters are less efficient overall, they let more air to pass through the filter, which can improve the operation of the HVAC system. It’s important to have the proper mix of air filter and MERV rating for your exact needs and your system. Call Jack Nelson Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning in Tulsa today to let us help determine which MERV rating is perfect for your home and family.

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), which developed the MERV rating, advises filters with minimum MERV ratings of 6. The U.S. Department of Energy proposes a minimum of MERV 13. For the best overall solution for most homeowners, purchase an Air Purification System, which comes with a MERV 16 media filter, and you’ll be good to go for years.

Here’s how Air Filter MERV Ratings stack up:

– MERV 1 to 4— <20% of large particles (3 to 10 microns) are captured.
– 5 to 7—Between 20% and 69% of large particles are captured
– 8 to 10—Approximately 85% of large particles and 50% of small particles (1.0 to 3.0 microns) are captured.
– 11 to 16—More than 90% of large particles and between 70% and 90% of small particles are captured.
– 17 to 20—Even the smallest particles (< 0.3 microns) are captured.

The right MERV rating on the right filter could strongly influence impact your indoor air quality, your health and your lifestyle. So choosing the right air filter matters.

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