September 9, 2022
Man changing AC filter in Reading, PA

You spend a great deal of time indoors, so it is only natural to want the air you breathe to be as clean as possible. When it comes to the air filters in your HVAC system, you must choose between MERV and HEPA filters. Which one is better for your home depends on a few factors.

What Is a MERV Filter?

MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It’s the most common type of filter used in homes. They are rated between MERV 1 and MERV 20. Air filters with a higher MERV value capture more particles passing through them. Filters commonly have a MERV value between 13 and 16. This is enough to capture around 75% of airborne particles that pass through the filter.

What Is a HEPA Filter?

HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air. A HEPA filter captures up to 99.7% of the particles passing through it. HEPA filters are rated MERV 17 and higher. A HEPA filter may be desirable for a homeowner suffering from allergies, asthma or health issues.

Is a Higher MERV Rating Always Desirable?

Surprisingly, the answer to this question is no. The higher the MERV grade, the more it restricts airflow and the efficiency of your HVAC system. This can cause many problems.

When airflow is restricted, your HVAC system has to work much harder and longer than it needs to. This costs you money as it runs less efficiently and has a shorter life span.

If you’re considering moving up to an air filter with a higher MERV rating, you need to consult an experienced technician. They can tell you how high of a MERV filter your system can reasonably handle.

The team at Comfort Pro Heating & Air Conditioning can help you decide what air filter to use. We do repairs, replacements and maintenance for heaters and air conditioners. Our other services include indoor air quality, air duct cleaning and new home construction. You can learn more by giving Comfort Pro Heating & Air Conditioning a call today. We serve Berks, Chester, Montgomery, and Lancaster counties.

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