When it comes to selecting the ideal air filter for your home, it can be difficult to know which one is best for your needs. The quality of an air filter is evaluated based on its rating, which indicates the filter's ability to block particulates from the air. The higher the rating, the smaller the air and dust particles the home air conditioning filter can capture. The two most common ratings are MERV and MPR/FPR.
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value and is used to measure how well an air filter can remove particles from the air. MPR stands for Microparticle Performance Rating and FPR stands for Filter Performance Rating. Both MPR and FPR measure how well an air filter can capture particles from the air. The next level is Better, which is represented by a FPR 7 and adds protection against bacteria and mold spores. It's important to understand the differences between MERV, MPR, and FPR when selecting an air filter for your home.
MERV ratings range from 1 to 16, with 16 being the highest rating. MPR ratings range from 300 to 1500, with 1500 being the highest rating. FPR ratings range from 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest rating. MERV ratings are usually used in commercial buildings, while MPR and FPR ratings are used in residential homes. The higher the rating, the better the filter will be at capturing particles from the air.
For instance, a MERV 8 filter will capture more particles than a MERV 6 filter. Similarly, an MPR 1500 filter will capture more particles than an MPR 300 filter. When deciding on an air filter for your home, it's important to consider both your budget and your needs. If you're looking for a basic filter that will remove dust and other large particles from the air, then a MERV 6 or 7 may be sufficient. However, if you're looking for a more advanced filter that will remove smaller particles such as bacteria and mold spores, then an FPR 7 may be a better choice. It's also essential to consider how often you need to replace your air filter.
Most filters should be replaced every three months or so, depending on how often you use your HVAC system. If you have pets or allergies, you may need to replace your filter more often. Choosing the right air filter for your home can be a challenging decision. It's important to understand the differences between MERV, MPR, and FPR ratings so that you can choose a filter that best suits your needs. With some research and understanding of these ratings, you can find an air filter that will keep your home clean and healthy.
