In a nutshell, the MERV rating system is used to measure the size of air particles that an air filter can trap. A higher rating means that the filter can capture smaller particles. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. If your filter is too dirty or too thick, it can cause airflow problems that can reduce efficiency and performance.
To measure resistance, filters use the MERV classification system. In short, the higher the MERV rating, the stronger the filter will be. The MERV classification is essential to finding the right air filter for your home. When it comes to selecting an air filter for your 20x25x1 space, it's important to consider what type of filtration you need and what type of environment you live in. Based on the characteristics mentioned above, a MERV 8 is considered a superior filter compared to air filters with a lower MERV rating.
But is filtration enough? In many cases, a MERV 8 air filter is more than adequate. However, if you're concerned about outdoor air pollution, have family members with respiratory problems, or pets at home, then opting for a higher MERV rating might be a good idea. MERV 8 air filters are very common because they are a fairly complete option, so you might think that they have an excellent price but a poor performance. The higher MERV rating means an air filter will capture more dust, while the lower rating means it will capture less dust. Typically, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing it every 90 days or 3 months. The Minimum Efficiency Report Value (MERV) is a filter classification system devised by ASHRAE, the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers, to standardize and simplify air filter efficiency ratings for the public.
While MERV ratings reflect a filter's ability to trap microscopic and macroscopic particles, MPR ratings only qualify a filter based on its ability to remove 0.3 to 1 micron particles. If you don't change your filter according to their recommendations, it will accumulate dirt and dust, making it more restrictive and less effective when filtering. This then improves your home's air quality by preventing waste from recirculating through the air. So when deciding on an air filter for your 20x25x1 size space, it's important to consider what type of filtration you need and what type of environment you live in. If you're looking for superior filtration and want to protect your family from outdoor pollutants or allergens, then opting for a higher MERV rating might be your best bet.
On the other hand, if you're looking for basic filtration and don't have any special needs or concerns about indoor air quality, then a lower MERV rating should suffice.