A Merv 13 filter is one of the best air filters on the market. It is designed to trap all typical airborne contaminants, including several more. While a MERV 13 filter can trap dust, pollen, mold and bacteria, it can also filter smoke, smog, and even virus carriers. In fact, there aren't many particles in the air that a MERV 13 air filter can't trap.
The common air filter in residential applications today generally has a MERV rating between MERV 5 and MERV 13. But for those who want the best residential air filter for bacteria and contaminants in the air, we recommend a MERV 13 or higher. This is because filters that are above 13 in their MERV rating can filter particles closer to the 0.3 micron size. It's important to replace filters regularly, as the older an air filter gets, the less bacteria and dirt it removes from the air, leading to poorer indoor air quality and higher energy costs. Also consider running the system fan longer, or continuously, since HVAC systems filter air only when the fan is running.
MERV ratings range from 1 to 20; the higher the number, the higher the percentage of contaminants blocked by the filter. MERV 13 is also recommended for people with weakened immune systems who may be affected by airborne pathogens and viruses. A Merv 13 filter traps with its minimum efficiency: less than 75% of air particles having a size of 0.3-1.0 microns (reference table below). By increasing the size range of air particles to 3-10 microns, a MERV 13 filter will capture 90% or more of them at their worst.
With the recommendation of a MERV 13 or higher, does a MERV 13 filter meet your needs? A MERV 13 filter is a step in the right direction and captures more particles than a typical MERV 8 filter. Constructed with an advanced synthetic air medium using both charged fibers and traditional mechanical filtration principles, Green Pleat filters allow for MERV 13 levels after installation and immediately trap contaminants in the air. The resulting dust cake improves the mechanical principles of the filter, allowing high levels of filtration throughout its life cycle. While these filters do a great job of trapping pollen, dust, mold and other basic air pollutants, they are not ideal if you have allergies or pets. The MERV rating system ranges from 1 to 20, with the highest rating (20) being the rating used for filters in places such as hospitals. MERV ratings determine the capabilities of an air filter and its level of filtration efficiency. While Merv 13 air filters cannot provide a completely sterile environment - no air filter can - they will provide the cleanest air quality for your home.
