High quality air is essential for the health and comfort of a building’s occupants. Filters play a major role in achieving clean air by eliminating airborne particles such as dust, allergens, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful micro-organisms.

But not all filters in HVAC systems are the same. In this article, we discuss the difference between the two most common filters used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

MERV Filters

Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) is a rating system for air filters and the higher the MERV rating, the more effective it is at removing airborne pollutants.

Typically speaking, the MERV rating of an HVAC air filter ranges between 1 and 16 with the most common rating being between 1 and 4.

Filters with a MERV rating of higher than 13 are capable of removing at least 75% of airborne particles.

These filters are most suitable for general environments such as office buildings, shopping malls, private homes, and universities.

However, it’s important to note that MERV filters with higher ratings require frequent changing to ensure proper airflow and efficiency.

HEPA Filters

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are required to meet stringent air filtration standards. According to standard, HEPA filters must be capable of filtering out 99.97% of all microscopic airborne pollutants.

HEPA filters are typically not rated according to the MERV scale but are generally considered to have a MERV rating higher than 16.

These filters are most suitable for environments that require high levels of clean air such as hospitals, operating theatres, and laboratories to name a few.

Air Options – HVAC Company South Africa

As one of South Africa’s best HVAC companies, we believe that clean air is a valuable asset for any building to have.

Protecting people and environments from harmful contamination is of utmost importance to us.

If you would like to know which filter is best for your HVAC system, please consult our team of professionals.