The higher the MERV rating, the more restrictive the filter. In addition, a MERV 12 filter is only 1 inch thick. The goal of using a MERV 12 filter or higher is to achieve better Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): cleaner, more breathable air for everyone, and especially for those with allergies, asthma, COPD, etc. The short answer is that it can be used in a home, but it's not really a problem except in extreme circumstances.
Most modern HVAC systems have no problem working with higher MERV filters, so millions of homeowners rely on them. The main risk of high-efficiency air filters comes from the fact that they are not modified for long periods of time. If you're aware of changing your filters regularly, you're unlikely to experience filter-related issues with your HVAC system. In general, filters with higher MERV ratings capture higher percentages of particulate matter as well as smaller particles. And MERV-13* is practically where you want to be.
This range of MERV values can begin to trap particles in the 1.0-3.0 micron range. In this range, we start to see pet dander, lung-damaging dust and trapped automobile emissions. Filters in this range can trap more than 85% of particles with a size of 3.0-10.0 microns. A MERV 9 will trap less than 50% of particles with a size of 1.0-3.0 microns, the MERV 10 will stop up to 64%, the Merv 11 will get up to 79%, and the MERV 12 is capable of trapping up to 89%. In general, filters with higher MERV ratings are more effective and improve air quality, but they are also more expensive.
Plus, Higher Doesn't Always Mean Better for Homeowners. MERV ratings above 16 are commonly used in specialized commercial environments where air filtration is critical, such as hospitals. Although the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) suggests MERV 13, it may not be the most efficient option for some residential HVAC systems. It is best to adhere to the oven manufacturer's recommendations or consult an HVAC professional to determine exactly which MERV rating is best for your specific system. Filters in the 5-8 MERV range can also trap particles with a size of 3.0-10.0 microns, but are more efficient in doing so. A MERV 8 carbon filter will provide more than enough filtering of dust and allergens and filter out dozens of toxic gases that will pass directly through a MERV 13 filter.
Filters with a MERV 13-16 value are the most restrictive and can trap the smallest particles, such as bacteria, tobacco smoke and wood burning. Low-efficiency filters are typically found within MERV 1-4 and high-efficiency filters are MERV 13 and later. It turns out that sometimes, due to the unintended consequences of high MERV filters, the cure is worse than the problem. If your home's HVAC system isn't capable of handling MERV 13, opt for a filter with the next highest possible rating. You are now equipped to monitor your air filter and change it regularly with the right MERV value for your home and family. I have two identical sizes: I have two identical sized MERV12 filter filters from 3M in my bank.
In addition, high-performance air filters that contain pleats create much more surface area for air to pass through, which can improve airflow and reduce strain on the system. This MERV filter is questionable as it will actually be effective for this use since I understand that they need an electrostatic charge that they do not receive when placed in a mask. Technology for HVAC units has progressed since then, and most modern units in recent years should be capable of at least one MERV 8 filter. When I was reading the very fine print, in the far RIGHT column it does say that there are microfine fiberglass particles in the Merv 11 — 16. In conclusion, it is important to understand that while higher MERV ratings can improve air quality by trapping smaller particles, they may not always be suitable for residential HVAC systems due to their restrictive nature and potential strain on the system. It is best to adhere to the oven manufacturer's recommendations or consult an HVAC professional to determine exactly which MERV rating is best for your specific system.
