Any air filter with a rating higher than 13 can cause a restriction in airflow that can damage your HVAC system, leading to costly repairs. A higher Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating means more resistance, which translates to less airflow. When researching air conditioning systems, it is essential to consider the air flow rate as it is a key factor in the performance and longevity of your oven or air controller. Airflow is also essential for a comfortable home.
The short answer is yes, but it's not usually an issue, except in extreme cases. Most modern air conditioning systems have no problem operating with higher MERV filters, which is why millions of homeowners rely on them. The main risk of high-efficiency air filters comes from the fact that they are not changed regularly. If you make sure to replace the filters regularly, it's unlikely that you'll have problems related to the filters in your HVAC system.
The efficiency of the air filter has an indirect effect on airflow. Filters with higher MERV ratings generally have less airflow. The amount of decrease may vary depending on the home and air conditioning system, but with modern technology, the increase in airflow resistance achieved with a high-efficiency filter is often minimal. It is recommended to change your air filters every 1 or 2 months to maintain optimal levels of performance and energy efficiency.
A study found that, although there is a relationship between the use of high-efficiency filters and higher energy consumption, in most residential systems the impact is not significant. A consequence of a highly effective air filter is the speed with which it can become clogged with contaminants and begin to increase the pressure drop. A MERV 13 filter can capture many harmful contaminants in cigarette smoke to provide more breathable air for non-smokers in the home. Using a filter above the MERV 13 in a home is unnecessary and can restrict airflow and damage the air conditioning system.
When these filters get dirty and need to be changed, air will continue to flow through them and won't get clogged as easily. It is recommended to change the filters in this category every two to four weeks, which can be difficult to maintain in some cases. You should also remember to replace the filter every month, three months, six months, or a year, depending on the filter. However, older units may not have enough air pressure to force air through a higher-efficiency filter.
The highest-rated filters are designed for healthcare and laboratory environments with excellent air quality and air conditioning systems that can work with high-efficiency filters. While air filter ratings may seem relatively unimportant, they do affect indoor air quality. In most cases, choosing high MERV air filters will harm the performance of your HVAC system. While MERV 8 filters can capture pollen, MERV 13 filters can capture other microscopic allergens that can reduce pollen symptoms in allergic people.
