Is MERV 10 bad for HVAC?

Is MERV 10 bad for HVAC?

The short answer is that it can, but it’s not really an issue except under extreme circumstances. Most modern HVAC systems have no problem working with higher MERV filters, which is why millions of homeowners depend on them.

Is MERV 10 too high?

When in doubt, choose a MERV 8 to MERV 10 filter rated for high airflow, so it won’t damage your furnace or air handler. Or you can ask a certified HVAC technician what filter is best for your furnace or air handler. OK, let’s get into the details of why a high MERV furnace filter might not be good for your furnace.

Is MERV 10 filter good?

What is a MERV rating?

MERV Rating Average Particle Size Efficiency in Microns
10 1.0 – 3.0 50% – 64.9%, 3.0 – 10.0 85% or greater
12 1.0 – 3.0 80% – 89.9%, 3.0 – 10.0 90% or greater
14 0.3 – 1.0 75% – 84%, 1.0 – 3.0 90% or greater
16 0.3 – 1.0 75% or greater

What does MERV 10 mean on an air filter?

Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. A filter with a MERV rating of nine to 12 captures particles greater than one micrometer. This includes most dust and common pollutants. Hospital laboratories and superior residential air conditioners fall within this range.

Does MERV 10 restrict airflow?

The higher the MERV rating, the fewer particles and other contaminants will be allowed into your home. While the highest MERV ratings are the most effective for air quality, they can harm your HVAC system. A higher MERV rating means a higher resistance, which means less airflow.

Does MERV 11 filter coronavirus?

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 does MERV 10 mean?

MERV rating 9-12 A MERV 9 will trap less than 50% of particles sized 1.0-3.0 microns, MERV 10 will stop up to 64%, MERV 11 will get up to 79%, and MERV 12 is capable of catching up to 89%.

Is MERV 8 or 10 better?

Air particles are measured in microns (one-millionth of a meter). MERV 5–8 (good): These filters are better at catching small particles (3–10 microns) like mold spores, hair spray, dust mites and animal dander. MERV 9–12 (better): The best option for residential use.

What is the difference between MERV 10 and 11?

A MERV 9 will trap less than 50% of particles sized 1.0-3.0 microns, MERV 10 will stop up to 64%, MERV 11 will get up to 79%, and MERV 12 is capable of catching up to 89%.

Are high MERV filters bad for AC?

While the highest MERV ratings are the most effective for air quality, they can harm your HVAC system. A higher MERV rating means a higher resistance, which means less airflow. When researching HVAC systems, airflow will come up a lot.

Do UV air filters work for Covid?

Oct. 11, 2021 — A combination of HEPA filters and UV light was effective in reducing airborne COVID particles from the air of hospitals in the first test of its kind, researchers reported.

What MERV level is HEPA?

MERV 17
All HEPA filters have a rating of a MERV 17 or higher. A HEPA filter with a MERV 17 rating will trap 99.97% of air particles that are 0.3-1.0 micron in size and an even better % of particles below 0.3 microns and above (HEPA filters are rated at their worst performance).

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