When it comes to air filtration, MERV 8 is considered a superior filter compared to those with a lower rating. But is it enough? In many cases, a MERV 8 air filter is more than adequate for providing clean air in your home. However, if you're concerned about outdoor air pollution, have family members with respiratory problems, or pets at home, then opting for a higher MERV rating might be a good idea. The MERV 11 air filter may need to be changed more frequently than the MERV 8 air filter.
The MERV rating system makes it easier to compare filters from different brands. A MERV 11 air filter is slightly more expensive than standard filters, but it's usually worth paying a few more dollars per filter to increase efficiency. Generally speaking, anything under a MERV 13 air filter should provide very efficient air purification in a home without affecting air flow. Strict building codes and increased foot traffic generally mean that commercial properties should opt for a filter with a higher MERV rating.
Original AprilAire filters offer the promise that your filter will fit perfectly with AprilAire systems, offering more efficient air cleaning. Meanwhile, air filters with a MERV 14 rating or higher are designed for commercial air conditioning systems that can withstand the coarser filter material. The same is true for homes with smokers or pets, since MERV 11 air filters better eliminate odors. If you're concerned about the effects of inhaling fine air particles, that's another reason to choose a MERV 11 air filter over a MERV 8 air filter. Unlike other scales, which emphasize the need to increase the amount of particles that pass through an air filter, the MERV was designed to provide a balance between particulate filtering and energy efficiency.
Filters with a MERV rating greater than 13 are closely intertwined to capture potentially harmful contaminants. In 1987, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers designed the MERV rating scale to provide a more accurate picture of an air filter's capabilities. Using an air filter with a MERV rating that is too high can damage the compressor, heat exchanger, and air conditioner coil. Therefore, it's important to choose the right type of filter for your needs and ensure that you change it regularly for optimal performance. As an expert in SEO optimization, I recommend considering all of these factors when deciding whether or not to use an air purifier with your MERV 11 filter.
It's important to weigh the cost of purchasing and replacing the filter against the benefits of improved air quality and energy efficiency. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide what type of filter is best for your home or business.
