The Filter Performance Rating (FPR) is a system used to evaluate the effectiveness of air filters. It assigns a weighted average to each filter, which is then rated on a scale from 1 to 12, with 1 being the lowest performance and 12 the highest. When it comes to air filters for home use, those with the best FPR ratings are the best choice. The quality of an air filter is determined by its classification, which indicates its capacity to block out particles in the air. The higher the rating (for MERV, FPR, and MPR), the smaller the air and dust particles the home air conditioning filter can capture.
When it comes to efficiency, it can be difficult to decide between a MERV classification and an FPR classification. Both are useful, but the FPR may be easier to understand since it uses a number system that is more intuitive. FPR scores range from one to ten, with ten being the best. A more efficient filter will be more effective at removing particulates from the air as they enter the air conditioning system.
This will improve the air quality in your home and keep your lungs healthy. Since filtration is more thorough, your HVAC unit will require more energy and effort to use them. The amount may vary depending on the home and the air conditioning system, but with modern technology, the increase in airflow resistance achieved with a high-efficiency filter is often marginal. This is important to keep in mind since many homeowners believe that as filtration efficiency increases, air flow resistance also increases at the same rate. However, this isn't accurate and that's why millions of homeowners use high-efficiency filters without worrying about anything. For example, the Essential filter from Second Nature's is approximately 450% more effective at capturing particulate matter than a cheap, low-efficiency fiberglass filter, but its airflow resistance is only 20% higher - a marginal difference.
Fortunately, you don't have to make a long list of advantages and disadvantages between the MERV and the MPR or spend hours comparing the FPR to the MERV. In general, MERV 8 filters can filter 90% of particles suspended in the air, MERV 11 can remove around 95%, and MERV 13 can block approximately 98%. Low-efficiency filters are usually within the MERV 1-4 range and high-efficiency filters are those of MERV 13 and later versions. If you want to ensure that your indoor air quality is flawless, you'll want to try to find a MERV 20 filter, but you'll most likely have to settle for a MERV 13. However, since air filters play such an important role in keeping your home clean and healthy, knowing their MERV and FPR ratings will help you get the most out of your heating and cooling system. This is because there are different standards to meet - some air filters have a MERV rating while others are listed as MPR or FPR.
Filterbuy offers MERV 8, MERV 11, and MERV 13 air and heating filters which cover the normal range of household needs by providing clean air and protecting air conditioning equipment. In conclusion, when it comes to choosing an air filter for your home, it's important to consider both its MERV rating and its FPR. A higher FPR rating indicates better filtration efficiency which will help keep your home clean and healthy. However, it's important to remember that higher efficiency filters may require more energy from your HVAC unit. Fortunately, modern technology has made this difference marginal so you can enjoy clean air without worrying about energy costs.
