What is a MERV Rating?

Minimum Efficiency Value (MERV) is a filter rating system devised by the American Society of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) to standardize and simplify air filter efficiency ratings for the consumer.

The higher the MERV rating, the higher the efficiency of the air filter. This simply means that a MERV 13 filter will remove smaller particles from the air than a MERV 8 filter.

MERV ratings give you the ability to effectively compare one brand to another. Aside from any value-added features such as antimicrobial or odor control properties, one MERV 8 filter will perform about the same as any other MERV 8 filter. MERV ratings only apply to the efficiency of the filter. Additional features are added benefits that do not factor into the MERV rating system.