MERV 8-rated filters are designed to capture a wide range of impurities, including pollen, dust, lint, dust mites, mold, and other large particle contaminants. These filters are made of 100% synthetic materials and can trap particles between 3 and 10 microns in size. Common allergens such as pollen, pet dander, fluff, and dust mites can all be filtered out with a MERV 8 filter. Switching to this type of filter from a standard disposable one is an affordable option for most households. Although MERV 8 filters are suitable for most homes, those with respiratory problems, multiple pets, or who live near sources of outdoor air pollution should consider upgrading to a MERV 11 filter.
This type of filter is able to trap contaminants that escape from MERV 8 filters, such as mold, car emissions, smoke, pollution, and pet dander. However, MERV 11 filters are more expensive and may need to be changed more frequently than MERV 8 filters. The National Air Filtration Association has established 16 MERV values ranging from 1 to 16. The efficiency of the tested filter increases as the MERV number increases. Although some websites mention MERV 17-20 filters, the EPA and ASHRAE only rate filters on the MERV scale from 1 to 16. The MERV 8 filter is the most common air filter on the market and is the minimum rating recommended for residential use. When it comes to air filtration, it's important to understand what type of filter you need for your home. A MERV 8 filter is a great option for most households as it can effectively remove common allergens such as pollen, pet dander, lint, dust mites, and other large particle contaminants.
However, if you have respiratory problems or live near sources of outdoor air pollution, you may want to consider upgrading to a higher-rated filter such as a MERV 11. The National Air Filtration Association has established 16 different ratings on the MERV scale ranging from 1 to 16. The higher the rating on the scale, the more efficient the filter will be at trapping impurities. Although some websites mention filters with ratings higher than 16 (MERV 17-20), these are not recognized by the EPA or ASHRAE. The most common air filter on the market is the MERV 8 filter which is the minimum rating recommended for residential use.
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