Is MERV 11 the Right Filter for You?

MERV 11 air filters are known for their ability to capture a wide range of pollutants, from pollen and dust mites to smoke, pet dander, and bacteria. With a higher efficiency rating than MERV 8 filters, they offer more filtration for cleaner air. But is MERV 11 the right filter for your needs?MERV 11 filters are ideal for pet owners and those with mild allergies or asthma. They provide more protection against pet dander, dust mites, and other airborne particles that can damage the lungs.

However, they don't filter as much as the highest option suggested for residential use, MERV 13. If you're looking for even better air quality than what a MERV 8 can provide, then a MERV 11 is a good option. It's also our most popular type of air filter. While ASHRAE recommends MERV 13 and 14, it's best to select a filter with the highest possible MERV rating for your specific HVAC system. The higher the MERV rating, the greater the air filtration capabilities of a particular filter.

If your home's HVAC system is not capable of handling MERV 13, opt for a filter with the next highest possible rating. For example, MERV 11 filters trap 65 to 79 percent of the average particles 1.0 to 3.0 microns in size, with an average particle size efficiency of 85 percent or better. If you don't own a pet or don't have any medical conditions affecting your breathing, you can get by with a lower grade MERV 8 filter. This will still clean the air and handle dust, mold, pollen and bacteria.

Filters that are MERV 16 to 20 are generally only found in hospitals, cleanrooms, and nuclear power plants. To help you decide which filter works best for you, take a look at this comparison table that highlights the differences between the MERV 8 and MERV 11 filters. Additionally, this comparison table provides a visual breakdown of what MERV ratings look like for air filters. In conclusion, if you need an air filter that offers more filtration than what a MERV 8 can provide, then a MERV 11 is an excellent choice. However, if you want maximum protection against allergens and other airborne particles, then opt for a filter with the highest possible MERV rating for your specific HVAC system.