When researching air conditioning systems, air flow is an essential factor to consider for the performance and longevity of your furnace or air controller, as well as for providing a comfortable home. But how do MERV and FPR ratings affect air flow? The MERV rating system is based on a scale from 1 to 20 that designates the effectiveness of filters in capturing certain particle sizes. The higher the MERV rating, the more particles it will capture, resulting in greater resistance and less airflow. However, if the MERV rating is too high (above MERV 1), it can increase system backpressure and block air flow through the central air system, worsening the efficiency of the air conditioning system.
MERV 8 filters typically filter 90% of particulates from the air, MERV 11 can remove around 95%, and MERV 13 can block approximately 98%.The FPR system goes one step further than the MERV system by classifying filters based on their ability to capture particulate matter, as well as their amount of pressure drop and dust-holding capacity. Filters with an FPR rating of 8 to 9 will reduce airflow more than filters with a lower FPR rating, while filters with an RPF rating of 4 to 5 will not restrict airflow as much. The MERV scale is not linear; the difference between a MERV 6 and a MERV 8 is almost double in terms of the percentage of particles captured. Most modern HVAC systems have no problem operating with higher MERV filters, which is why millions of homeowners rely on them. The main risk of high-efficiency air filters comes from not changing them regularly.
If you don't stop changing your filters, you're unlikely to experience any filter-related problems in your air conditioning system. Filterbuy offers MERV 8, MERV 11 and MERV 13 air filters and ovens, which cover the normal range of household needs by providing clean air and, at the same time, protecting air conditioning equipment. In conclusion, it is important to understand how MERV and FPR ratings affect air flow when researching air conditioning systems. The FPR system is a more complete classification system for air filters compared to the MERV and MPR systems. It takes into account the pressure drop and dust-holding capacity of air filters, aspects that MERV and MPR systems do not address. Therefore, it is important to choose an appropriate filter for your home in order to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your furnace or air controller.
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