Is MERV 13 good enough?
Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values, or MERV, reports a filter’s ability to capture particles. Filters with MERV-13 or higher ratings can trap smaller particles, including viruses. By itself, using an upgraded HVAC filter is not enough to protect people from COVID-19.
What is MERV 13 equivalent to?
MERV 11 vs MERV 13 MERV 13 air filters provide even additional filtration power against fine particle matter compared to MERV 11 filters. Additional benefits of MERV 13 air filters are that they can filter out smoke, airborne viruses, and smog.
What does MERV 13 mean for filters?
minimum efficiency reporting value
MERV stands “minimum efficiency reporting value” and a filter receives a MERV rating as determined by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). A MERV 13 will trap less than 75% of air particles that are 0.3-1.0 micron in size (the coronavirus is 0.1 microns).
Is MERV 13 safe for my furnace?
MERV 13 is the highest MERV value safe for residential furnaces; the higher ratings are used primarily in commercial units. If you are wondering what MERV to try, keep these recommendations in mind; ASHRAE recommends MERV 6 or higher.
How long do MERV 13 filters last?
3 months
For Merv 8, 11 and 13 filters, we recommend that you change your filter at least every 3 months, however changing your filter every 2 months provides better filtration which provides healthier and cleaner air in your home.
Does MERV 13 restrict air flow?
For example, let’s say you have a pleated filter that’s 1-inch thick and has a 13 MERV rating. Because the filter is thin and the MERV is high, it reduces airflow into the duct system. To make matters worse, this type of filter will reduce airflow even further once it gets dirty, which it will do very quickly.
Can I use a MERV 13 filter in my furnace?
The ideal MERV filters for both air filtering and furnace efficiency are 7-13, experts say. These filters can be used without any modifications to your equipment. Your system may handle MERV 14-16 with no discernable stress. However, many residential systems require modifications to pull air through these filters.