All air conditioner air filters aren’t equally efficient in blocking dust particles. So, how do you know which air conditioner air filter is suitable for your air conditioner and which is not?
To make this thing simple for you, an air conditioner air filter rating has been developed. In this article, I’ll talk briefly about air conditioner filter ratings. But before that, let me explain why you need to choose the right A/C air filter for your home HVAC setup…
Why Choosing the Right Air Conditioner Air Filter is Important?
Many homeowners think that all air filters are equally efficient in blocking small particles. But this isn’t true.
A regular air conditioner air filter will only be able to block a few types of particles. On the other hand, a high rated air conditioner air filter can block almost all sorts of particles from dust to viruses and bacteria.
If you live in a polluted area, you’ll have to choose a high-rated air conditioner filter. You won’t get good air quality in your space if you choose a regular air conditioner air filter.
Again, you’ll have to consider the compatibility of your air conditioner while buying an air conditioner air filter. For example, if you have an old air conditioner and you want to install a high rated air conditioner air filter, there is a high chance that you won’t be able to do it because most of the high rated air conditioner air filters are only compatible with modern air conditioners.
That’s why while buying an air conditioner air filter, you’ll have to consider the air filter rating and the compatibility of your air conditioner.
All You Need to Know about Air Conditioner Filter Ratings
1. Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value – MERV
This rating system was developed by ASHRAE, and this air conditioner air filter rating system is accepted worldwide. MERV rating ranges from 1 to 16. The higher the MERV rating, the more efficient your air conditioner air filter is in blocking small particles.
MERV Rating: 1-4
This type of air conditioner air filter offers basic air filtration. It only can block particles that are more than 10 microns in size, such as- pollens, pet dander, dust, etc. However, this type of air conditioner air filter doesn’t clean your inside air. Also, you’ll have to change this type of air conditioner air filter more frequently. But this type of air conditioner air filter is low in price.
If you live in a countryside area and looking for a cheap air conditioner air filter, this type of air conditioner air filter is for you.
MERV Rating: 6-8
This type of air conditioner air filter can block particles that more than 3 microns in size. That means it can block hair spray, dust mites, and pet dander.
MERV Rating: 9-12
If someone in your family has an allergy problem or asthma problem then you should use this type of air conditioner air filter. This type of air conditioner air filter can block particles that are more than 1 micron in size. This type of air conditioner air filter can block particles like humidifier dust, flour, etc.
MERV Rating: 13-16
This type of air conditioner air filters is the high rated air filters. Generally, this type of air conditioner air filter is used in sensitive places like hospitals. It can block particles that are 0.3 microns in size or more. That means, by using this type of air conditioner air filter, you can block viruses and bacteria from entering your space.
2. Microparticulate Performance Rating – MPR
MPR rating was developed by the 3M scientists, and it ranges from 100 to 2800. This rating is based on the capability of blocking small particles. However, this rating isn’t used that much.
Like the MERV rating system, the higher the rating is, the more efficient your air filter is in blocking small particles. MPR 2800 rating is considered as a MERV 14 air filter.
From this, you can see that the high-rated MPR rating air filter won’t give the same output as a high-rated MERV air filter. That’s why if you want to buy a highly efficient air filter, you should consider buying a MERV rated air filter.
3. Filter Performance Rating – FPR
This rating system was developed by Home Depot, and it ranges from 4 to 10. This rating is similar to the MERV rating system.
The FPR rating is based on the filter’s capability to capture small particles. Like any other air filter rating system, the higher the rating, the more efficient your HVAC air filter is. For FPR air filters, FPR 4 is considered good, 7,9, and 10 are considered better, best, and premium, respectively.
See the summary of this article here in an infographic – AC Filter Ratings: MERV vs MPR vs FPR [Infographic]
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