Wrong. 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. ... If the MERV rating on your furnace is too high, it may force your furnace to work too hard and leave it vulnerable to damages.Sep 20, 2019
Is MERV 11 a good filter?
The MERV 11 filter is best for pet owners and people who live with certain health conditions, such as mild allergies and mild asthma. It offers more filtration for cleaner air than the MERV 8 but doesn't filter as much as the MERV 13 (the highest option suggested for residential use).
What MERV rating can my HVAC handle?
The ideal MERV filters for both air filtering and furnace efficiency are 7-13, experts say. These filters can be used without any modifications to your equipment. Your system may handle MERV 14-16 with no discernable stress.Mar 20, 2012
Do higher MERV filters restrict airflow?
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.Sep 20, 2019
What MERV rating is best for home use?
According to the ASHRAE, the best rating for residential HVAC systems is MERV 13. But before you upgrade your filter, make sure your specific system can accommodate that rating. A higher MERV rating often means lower airflow, which can cause the system to work harder—use more energy—to do its job.Mar 31, 2021
Is MERV 13 bad for HVAC?
Filters within a MERV rating of 17-20 are almost never necessary in a residential home. A MERV rating of 13-16 is considered hospital level air quality, so it is unlikely your home needs any more than that.Sep 20, 2019
Is MERV 11 bad for HVAC?
A MERV 11 air filter has a higher efficiency rating. ... In particular, using an air filter with a MERV rating that's too high can damage the compressor, heat exchanger, and air conditioner coil. In most cases, a MERV 11 air filter isn't too high for residential use.
Is MERV 13 better than Merv 8?
A filter with a MERV rating of 13 catches more contaminants and could be considered “better” than a MERV 8 filter. ... A MERV 8 filter is best for New Jersey homeowners who are simply trying to keep their HVAC system healthy and clean and don't want to spend too much on a filter.Nov 7, 2017