The MERV 13 air filter is not as widely used as its lower-rated counterpart, the MERV 11, but it has the highest rating. It is usually worth spending a few extra dollars for a MERV 11 filter, as it can provide better protection against airborne bacteria and viruses that spread through airborne droplets. This is especially true for households with allergies or respiratory issues, smokers, or pets, as MERV 11 air filters can more effectively eliminate odors and filter out a large percentage of fine particles. In most homes and commercial buildings, filters with a MERV rating between 8 and 13 will be sufficient to filter the air.
Although the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) suggests that the MERV 13 is not the most efficient option for some residential HVAC systems, it still offers superior filtration compared to air filters with a lower MERV rating. The MERV 8 and MERV 11 air filters have some distinct differences. Generally speaking, anything below a MERV 13 air filter should provide very efficient air purification in a home without affecting airflow. The MERV 11 or, in cases where allergies and asthma are a priority, you can choose between a MERV 11 or filters with a MERV rating higher than 13, which are tightly intertwined to capture potentially harmful contaminants.
One thing to keep in mind is that a MERV 11 air filter may need to be changed more often than a MERV 8 air filter. It's best to use a category 13 MERV filter to protect yourself from the bacteria that spread the virus, but you should also consider adding air quality solutions to your home. As the MERV classification system is standard, it makes it easier to compare filters with different MERV ratings.
