Is a MERV 8 Air Filter Good Enough for Home Use?

As a result of their MERV 8 rating, air filters are capable of capturing medium-sized particles such as aerosols, mold, and dust. This is often enough for most households, however, it may not be enough to filter out harmful viruses and bacteria, smoke, and other forms of air pollution. When it comes to air filtration, a MERV 8 is considered superior compared to air filters with a lower MERV rating. But is it good enough? In many cases, the answer is yes.

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. MERV 8 filters are most often used in residential buildings and are capable of trapping around 80% of the particles suspended in the air. They are able to block contaminants that are in the 3.0-10 micron range and other larger particles. This includes dust, mold, pollen, mites, bacteria and pet dander. When buying an air filter, most people wonder if the MERV 8 is a good enough air filter for their homes. It's generally the most affordable air filtering option and, for most homes, it's an adequate way to keep the air healthy.

MERV 8 filters are good pleated filters that work significantly better than cheap fiberglass filters but are still inexpensive. MERV 8 filters allow good air flow and do not burden residential air conditioning systems. However, it's important to note that individual circumstances may require a filter with a higher MERV rating. For example, MERV 8 filters may be enough to trap a pet's hair and dander but MERV 13 filters are better for homes with multiple pets. When choosing between MERV 8 and MERV 13 filters, you must consider what you want to be filtered from the air and why. There is no doubt that some households should opt for a higher MERV due to special circumstances but don't opt for the MERV just to do so.

A MERV 11 filter can filter a large percentage of fine particles that a MERV 8 filter cannot. Raising only three MERV rating levels can be a smart decision to make the air cleaner or a harmful option for the entire air conditioning system considering the air flow capabilities of the MERV 8 versus the MERV 11. Ultimately, what matters is that you choose one that fits all your air quality needs.