MERV Air Filters & Ratings Guide

Understanding Air Filter Efficiency Ratings

MERV ratings determine how effectively your air filters capture airborne particles. Choosing the right MERV rating protects your health, optimizes system performance, and prevents costly mistakes.

1-20

MERV Scale

Higher numbers capture smaller particles more effectively

0.3μm

Particle Size

High-efficiency filters capture particles 300× smaller than hair width

99%

Efficiency

Premium MERV filters remove 99%+ of targeted particles

MERV Rating Scale Explained

Understanding the MERV scale helps you choose the right filtration level for your specific needs and system requirements.

1–4

Basic

Minimal Filtration

Captures 10+ microns

• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Carpet fibers
• Basic residential

5–8

Standard

Good Filtration

Captures 3–10 microns

• Mold spores
• Pet dander
• Lint particles
• Most residential

9–12

Superior

Excellent Filtration

Captures 1–3 microns

• Fine dust
• Auto emissions
• Humidifier dust
• Commercial spaces

13–16

Premium

Superior Filtration

Captures 0.3–1 microns

• Bacteria
• Smoke particles
• Droplet nuclei
• Healthcare facilities

What Are You Filtering?

Understanding particle sizes helps you choose the right MERV rating for your specific air quality challenges.

Particle Size Comparison

●

Large Particles (10+ μm)

Pollen, dust mites, pet hair — visible to the naked eye. Captured by MERV 1–4 filters.

•

Medium Particles (3–10 μm)

Mold spores, pet dander, fine dust — barely visible. Requires MERV 5–8 filters.

·

Small Particles (0.3–3 μm)

Bacteria, smoke, fine particles — invisible. Needs MERV 9–16 filters.

Real-World MERV Applications

See where different MERV levels are used — and how the right rating protects people, equipment, and energy budgets.

MERV 9–12

Offices & Schools — excellent balance of capture and airflow

MERV 13–16

Healthcare & Labs — superior capture for fine particles

Choosing the Right MERV Rating

The right MERV rating depends on your specific environment, air quality needs, and HVAC system capabilities. Higher isn't always better.

Facility Type

Healthcare facilities need higher MERV ratings than typical offices due to infection control requirements.

Occupant Health

Facilities with sensitive individuals benefit from higher MERV ratings to reduce allergens and irritants.

System Capacity

HVAC systems must have adequate power to handle the airflow resistance of higher MERV filters.

Industries We Serve

Healthcare Education Commercial Manufacturing Food Processing Gyms & Fitness Centers Restaurants & Bars Multi-Unit Housing Residential

Get Expert MERV Filter Selection

Stop guessing which MERV rating is right for your facility. With 30+ years of filtration expertise, G&B Environmental ensures you get the optimal balance of air quality, system performance, and cost efficiency.

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Expert MERV Filter Selection & Installation

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