Why MERV Ratings Matter | Commercial HVAC Systems

13.01.2025

Akshay Sadiora

Commercial spaces are considered one of the most busy places. Commercial buildings are the areas that are used to do business like selling, marketing, and handling various operations to excel the business and to provide service to their customers. These spaces include places like offices, hospitals, restaurants, schools, and many more. So, it is extremely important that the people in there should have clean and fresh air to breathe. This will help make things comfortable for the people working in these commercial spaces.

HVAC systems play an important role in providing people with good air quality. This amazing piece of technology is specially built for the purpose of maintaining air quality and regulating heating, cooling, air circulation, and ventilation to ensure that you have a comfortable and safe indoor environment. However, HVAC systems would not be able to work properly without having an air filter. For choosing the best air filter for your HVAC system you can depend on the MERV rating system.

It helps you to know about the ability to trap contaminants of various sizes. So, in this blog, we will provide you with complete knowledge about what MERV ratings are, the importance of MERV ratings in commercial HVAC systems, the essential factors that you need to consider while choosing a MERV-rating air filter, the risks of selecting the wrong MERV rating air filter, and some valuable tips for maintaining MERV air filters in commercial HVAC systems.

What Are MERV Ratings?

The full form of MERV is Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It is a system that is built for the purpose of measuring the effectiveness of trapping airborne particles in the air filters. The higher the MERV ratings are the better it will be able to filter out the harmful pollutants. MERV air filters help improve the air quality by enhancing the overall performance of your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning). The MERV ratings range from 1 to 20, each of these numbers showcases the ability to trap particles like dust mites, dirt, debris, pollen, and other dangerous contaminants such as bacteria and some kinds of viruses. The MERV scale helps you to decide which MERV air filter will be the best for your specific needs and requirements while offering you other benefits like better air quality and energy efficiency.

MERV 1-4 Air Filters: These air filters are the basic type of air filter that helps in trapping large particles like dust and lint. They are most commonly used in residential spaces where a high level of filtration is not required.
MERV 5-8 Air Filters: These are more advanced air filters that can capture both large particles along smaller particles like pet dander and mold spores. These MERV air filters are used in office buildings, schools, and other retail spaces.
MERV 9-12 Air Filters: These air filters offer you with an even higher level of air filtration by trapping dust mites, pollen, and even smoke. MERV 9 to 12 air filters are perfect to be used in places that require a higher level of air purification.
MERV 13-16 Air Filters: These air filters hold a great reputation for dealing with harmful airborne pollutants like bacteria and some viruses. For places like hospitals, cleanrooms, and laboratories MERV 13 to 16 are considered an ideal option.
MERV 17-20 Air Filters: These are the premium air filters that are used in spaces that demand the highest level of air quality such as the manufacturing of pharmaceutical products, cleanrooms, and operation rooms in the hospitals.

Importance Of MERV Ratings In Commercial HVAC Systems

Now that you have learned about what MERV ratings are, it is essential for you to understand the importance of MERV ratings in commercial HVAC systems. Read on to discover how these MERV ratings have an effect on the air quality, how energy efficient they are, and the lifespan of these air filters.

1. Better Indoor Air Quality

MERV air filters with high ratings are designed specifically to trap even the smallest airborne particles like bacteria, viruses, allergens, and other kinds of pollutants. These contaminants can be quite dangerous when they freely circulate in the air of your commercial spaces. This will not only reduce the quality of air but can also become the reason for multiple health problems. When you have a MERV air filter with a high rating then it reduces the air pollution and improves the overall air quality. It is especially vital to be used in spaces where individuals constantly suffer from respiratory issues like asthma and allergies.

2. Energy Efficiency

MERV ratings also play an important role in the energy efficiency of your HVAC system. When you have an air filter with high MERV ratings then it could cause restriction in the airflow in comparison to an air filter with less MERV ratings. Having problems with the airflow can result in putting extra workload on your HVAC system to maintain proper airflow. This will eventually cause you to consume more energy. However, you can prevent all of these things from happening by carefully considering the perfect air filter with the right MERV ratings to provide you with balanced airflow while not putting any burden on your HVAC system.

3. Extended Equipment Lifespan

It is important that you have the ideal air filter with a perfect MERV rating as it helps protect your HVAC system. It prevents dirt, debris, and other pollutants from getting collected in your HVAC system. Using a higher MERV rating air filter can help in trapping the airborne particles before they can get inside the sensitive parts such as coils and fans. Because of this quality, it keeps your HVAC system safe from damage and also saves you money on costly repairs. By making a schedule of providing regular maintenance to your HVAC system you can extend the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Factors To Consider When Choosing A MERV Rating

When you are choosing a MERV-rating air filter for your HVAC system. It is important that you consider the important factors to ensure that you are choosing the right air filter according to your unique needs and desires. By understanding these aspects you will be able to make the right decisions in selecting the MERV rating air filter.

You need to consider while choosing a MERV air filter its compatibility with your HVAC system. This will make sure that there is no extra burden on your HVAC unit which will reduce the airflow.
It is essential that you consider the space in which you are choosing the MERV air filter. Every space like hospitals, retail stores, offices, and other commercial places requires different MERV rating air filters.
While choosing an air filter always make sure that you check the requirements of air quality in your space. When you are dealing with particles like allergens, pollutants, and pathogens, it is best to consider a higher MERV-rating air filter.
You also need to consider the factor of how frequently you will be required to provide maintenance to your HVAC system by replacing your current air filter with a new one.

The Dangers Of Choosing The Wrong MERV Rating

There are multiple dangers if you choose the wrong MERV-rating air filter. It can harm your HVAC system and affect its overall performance. If you have a MERV air filter with a high rating then it will cause restriction in the airflow which will force the HVAC system to work harder to maintain the airflow that you desire. The pressure in your HVAC system can lead to multiple issues like overheating of your HVAC unit, reducing its efficiency, and increasing the risk of damage to essential parts like motors and fans. On the other hand, if you choose a MERV air filter with a low rating then it will not be able to effectively capture smaller particles. This will allow allergens, bacteria, viruses, and other pollutants to enter your indoor environment which poses a threat to your health.

Tips For Maintaining MERV Air Filters In Commercial HVAC Systems

When you have a MERV air filter in your commercial HVAC system then it is important that you properly maintain them. This will make sure that your HVAC system is operating smoothly and provide you with clean indoor air. When you follow the tips given below and provide your HVAC system with good maintenance then it will not only help in improving the performance of your system but can also help in extending the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Regularly Replace Air Filters: It is extremely important that you replace the air filter of your HVAC system every 3 to 6 months. However, it also depends on the overall usage of your air filter.
Monthly Check Air Filters: You need to make a schedule to check your air filter every once a month, especially when there is dirt visible. Dirt and debris can cause blockage and damage your HVAC system.
Clean HVAC Components: It is important for you to clean the parts of your HVAC system like ducts, coils, and vents. Cleaning them properly will help in preventing dust and debris from overloading the filters.
Upgrade When Required: If your air filter is not able to maintain the air quality that you desire then it is best to upgrade your air filter with a higher MERV rating air filter.

Conclusion

You have gained knowledge on how MERV ratings play an important role in making sure that your commercial HVAC system is operating effectively. You have learned what MERV ratings and the importance of MERV ratings in commercial HVAC systems as they provide you with better air quality, are energy efficient, and how it helps extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. You also discovered the essential factors that you need to keep in mind while choosing a MERV air filter, the dangers of using a wrong MERV rating air filter, and lastly some important tips that help you to maintain your HVAC system properly.

If you are seeking a high-quality air filter that helps in enhancing the performance of your commercial HVAC system then we at Custom Filters Direct can help you with that. We have a large variety of air filters with different MERV ratings. Each of them is designed especially to provide you with better air quality, enhance energy efficiency, and increase the lifespan of your HVAC system. Our premium products will offer you the perfect air filter that fulfills your unique needs and requirements. If you have any questions then you can connect with our experts by sending us an email at info@customfiltersdirect.com or giving us a call at 877-958-5612. By using our air filter you can be sure to breathe cleaner and healthier air.

MERV 8 Air Filters

MERV 11 Air Filters

MERV 13 Air Filters

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types Of Commercial Buildings Benefit Most From High MERV Ratings?

There are many commercial buildings that can benefit from using high MERV-rating air filters. Industries like healthcare facilities like hospitals and clinics are required to clean air quality so it is essential for them to use MERV ratings for bacteria, viruses, allergens, and other harmful pollutants. It is also quite important to use high MERV-rating air filters in educational institutes like schools, colleges, universities, and daycare centers. This will make the place free of airborne allergens like dust, pollen, and other pollution, making it safer for the students to learn in a healthier environment. Other than that, using high MERV-rating air filters is also quite important for office buildings. It helps in enhancing productivity as the employees are able to focus better on the work.

How Does MERV Filtering Compare To HEPA Filters In Commercial Settings?

There are many differences in MERV air filtering in comparison to HEPA air filters. Even though HEPA air filters are considered more efficient than MERV air filters in trapping harmful airborne particles. MERV air filters are a more popular option to be used in commercial settings. HEPA air filters stand for “High-Efficiency Particulate Air” and they hold a high reputation for their extraordinary efficiency. It can trap large amounts of airborne pollutants with an efficiency of 99.97 percent. HEPA air filters can also capture particles that are as small as 0.3 microns. While MERV air filters have an efficiency percentage of 95 percent and can trap particles that size about 1.0 microns to 0.3 microns. However, HEPA air filters are more expensive than MERV air filters.

Is It Necessary To Upgrade MERV Ratings During Seasonal Changes?

Even though it is not considered necessary to upgrade MERV ratings during seasonal changes. It is highly recommended that you adjust the MERV ratings so that it can improve the air quality of your home or office along with the efficiency of the HVAC system. Each season has its own unique challenges during the spring season a large amount of pollen can cause blockage in the MERV air filters in a short amount of time. During the cold months of the winter season the dry air and snow. It is highly recommended to upgrade the MERV ratings in the hot months of summer because it will help in removing the tiny particles of pollution.

Can MERV Filters Reduce The Spread Of Airborne Diseases In Commercial Buildings?

Yes, MERV air filters do help in reducing the spread of airborne diseases in commercial buildings by efficiently capturing the microscopic airborne particles which include bacteria and some kinds of viruses. When you choose to have a higher MERV rating air filter then it will be more effective in trapping smaller airborne particles. By removing the harmful airborne particles MERV air filters can help in improving the overall air quality in your commercial buildings. This quality also helps in decreasing the chances of getting sick which eventually helps in increasing the productivity of your employees. It is especially important to use a higher MERV rating air filter in commercial buildings like hospitals, schools, laboratories, and other offices.

Can MERV Filters Improve The Performance Of HVAC Units In Extreme Climates?

MERV air filters can help in improving the overall performance of HVAC systems in extreme climates. There are multiple ways by which it affects its performance choosing to use a high-rating MERV air filter can increase the consumption of energy when used in cool mode. However, it can also help in saving energy when used in a fan more for maintaining a constant speed. If you select MERV air filters with high ratings that are not compatible with your HVAC system then it can create more resistance which will eventually reduce the flow of air while causing damage to your HVAC system.

How Often Should MERV Filters Be Replaced In Commercial HVAC Systems?

According to the experts, it is highly recommended that you replace your MERV air filter in a commercial HVAC system every 3 to 6 months. However, the frequency of replacement depends on multiple factors like the type of air filter and the brand you choose to use in your HVAC system. The size of your HVAC system also affects how often you will be required to change your MERV-rating air filter. When you are living in an area that has a large amount of pollution then the level of contamination will affect the frequency of replacing your air filter. You will be required to replace your air filter more often when your home has pets or individuals who have the habit of smoking.

What Are The Common Myths About MERV Ratings?

There are many common myths about MERV-rating air filters like it is always the best option to choose a MERV air filter with high MERV ratings. Even though higher MERV ratings do display that the air filter is capable of providing better air filtration. It can also cause restrictions in the airflow while weakening your HVAC system. Air filters with MERV ratings between 8 to 12 are considered best for most homes. Another common myth is that choosing a high-rating MERV air filter will work for a longer time and will not need to be replaced frequently. However, the truth is higher MERV-rating air filters do tend to be replaced pretty frequently because of their capability to trap more and more airborne particles.

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Why MERV Ratings Matter In Commercial HVAC Systems

What Are MERV Ratings?