Everyone wants an HVAC system that provides clean air to every part of their house. To achieve this, homeowners must choose the right air filter according to their home and the system they have in place.
As Canton’s professional AC maintenance company, our team at Green Energy Mechanical Inc. understands the importance of clear airflow in your home, which is why we recommend using MERV filters to improve and maintain your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ).
But you might wonder, “Do higher MERV filters restrict airflow?” Learn everything you need to know in this guide.
What Are MERV Ratings for Air Filters?
Short for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, MERV ratings are a common way manufacturers measure the efficiency of an HVAC system’s air filter. MERV filters receive grades on a 1-20 scale, with higher ratings translating to finer filtration capabilities.
For example, low-efficiency filters typically reside in the MERV 1-4 range. These keep larger debris from entering your HVAC system, but smaller particles often bypass the filter and circulate throughout your home.
By comparison, filters with a MERV rating of 13 or higher fall under the high-efficiency range thanks to their ability to keep smaller, unwanted pollutants out of your ventilation and provide cleaner air.
The MERV rating scale isn’t linear, meaning a MERV 10 filter isn’t necessarily twice as effective as a MERV 5 filter.
Do Filters With Higher MERV Ratings Affect Airflow?
Now that you know what a MERV rating entails, let’s answer, “Do higher MERV filters restrict airflow?” After all, if a filter keeps harmful particles from entering your system’s ductwork and ventilation, it stands to reason that it impedes airflow to some extent, right?
To an extent, this is true. Filters inherently restrict your system’s airflow to varying degrees, depending on your system and the filter you have. Using more efficient filters with higher MERV ratings in your HVAC can translate to higher energy usage and utility costs. However, this is usually to an insignificant degree and also ignores the benefits of utilizing filters with higher MERV ratings.
Factors That Determine How Much an Air Filter Will Affect Airflow
If the restriction of airflow from high-MERV air filters concerns you, then you’ll want to consider the factors that influence how much an air filter will affect your home’s airflow, if at all.
Filter Size
Air filter size is crucial for striking the right balance between airflow and filter efficiency. On average, larger filters allow more airflow in and out of your system since there’s more space for air to go through, regardless of the MERV rating.
Efficiency
How well a filter prevents microscopic particles from passing through and into your HVAC system determines the air filter efficiency. There tends to be a relationship between higher MERV ratings and lower airflow — a less-efficient filter lets more air through and is more “efficient” in terms of airflow but less efficient at removing pollutants from the air.
Blower Motor
When your HVAC system experiences increased pressure due to a high-MERV air filter, then your filter may have a high pressure drop.
Pressure drop can significantly affect your system based on its blower motor type. Permanent split capacitor (PSC) motors respond to higher MERV filters with diminished airflow while using similar amounts of power. On the other hand, electrically commutated motors (ECMs) use more energy to maintain the current airflow, using more power in the process.
Replacement Cycle
One way an air filter can restrict airflow throughout your home is if you forget to check and replace your air filters. If you use low-efficiency MERV filters, aim to replace them every month. High-efficiency filters can last up to 90 days before needing replacement. On top of reducing airflow and IAQ levels, forgoing this crucial step can lead to increased wear and tear on your HVAC system.
Get High-MERV Air Filters and AC Service From Green Energy Mechanical Inc.
Although it’s logical to ask, “Do higher MERV filters restrict airflow?” what’s most important is choosing a filter setup that provides sufficient airflow while protecting the air circulating throughout your system and into your home. With over 20 years of experience, Green Energy Mechanical Inc. serves clients throughout Canton, MA. We maintain a certified team of technicians along with an A+ rating on BBB through top-tier services and exceptional results.
Whether you’re looking for HEPA or MERV filters or need a system-wide inspection, our services are available 24/7 to accommodate your schedule. Contact us at (781) 236-3421 to improve the quality of your home today!
Author Bio:
Jonathan Neves
Worked in the HVAC industry since he was 17. He started as an HVAC service technician for commercial buildings and eventually came into the residential market because of his love of working with people. He believes that what really sets Green Energy Mechanical apart is how long they stand behind their work and how compassionate his employees are for their clients.
