MERV Guide

MERV ratings help you choose the correct air filter for your home and HVAC system.

What is MERV?

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) measures how effectively an air filter captures airborne particles. The higher the rating, the smaller the particles it can trap.

Particle Size MERV 8 MERV 11 MERV 13
Dust
Pollen
Mold
Pet Dander
Smoke
Bacteria

Which MERV Is Right For You?

8

MERV 8

  • Best For:
  • Homes without pets
  • Basic dust protection
  • Budget friendly
Shop MERV 8
11

MERV 11

  • Best For:
  • Homes with pets
  • Mild allergies
  • Better air quality
Shop MERV 11
13

MERV 13

  • Best For:
  • Asthma
  • Allergies
  • Smoke
  • Highest residential filtration
Shop MERV 13

MERV vs MPR vs HEPA

System What It Means Best Use
MERV Standard HVAC filter rating (1-16). Residential & commercial HVAC.
MPR Manufacturer-specific rating (e.g., 3M). Comparing within a single brand.
HEPA Medical-grade filtration (99.97% at 0.3 microns). Hospitals, cleanrooms, severe allergies.

📌 Note: Most homes should use MERV 8–13. HEPA filters require specialized equipment and are not standard in residential HVAC.