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High-MERV Filters

    Scope
    Scope Images
    Image
    Install a filter with a MERV rating of 6 or higher in each ducted mechanical system
    Scope

    Install a filter with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating of 6 or higher in each ducted heating and cooling system to filter air passing through the return air duct and any outdoor air that is mechanically supplied to the air handler. 

    • Design the HVAC system to adequately account for the pressure drop associated with higher MERV filters.
    • Install the filter in a location where it can be easily accessed by the homeowner for cleaning or replacement when dirty.
    • Depending on application, higher than MERV 6 may be recommended. DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home program and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Indoor airPLUS program require that filters be at least MERV 8. MERV-13 or higher is recommended for control of viruses.

    See the Compliance Tab for related codes and standards requirements, and criteria to meet national programs such as DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home programENERGY STAR Single-Family New Homes, and Indoor airPLUS.

    Description
    Description

    Home heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems that have a central air handler and ducting should be equipped with air filters. The purpose of air filters is to remove particulates, such as dust, from the air stream. This serves three primary purposes:

    1. Filters improve indoor air quality for occupant respiratory health. This is key not only in daily life, but especially when outdoor air quality is low such as during extreme heat events or during regional wildfires.
    2. Filters protect the HVAC equipment from degradation by keeping internal components clean of particulate build-up that could cause lower equipment efficiency, reduced reliability, and diminished heat transfer.
    3. Filters help maintain a cleaner indoor environment by removing particulates that would otherwise settle on furniture and floors.

    HVAC filters are typically located upstream of other components. This means they are usually in the return duct adjacent to the air handler or on the back of the return register grille(s). This allows them to trap particulates in the air pulled into the return ducts by the air handler, before the particulates reach the coils, fan, or supply ducting.  Figure 1 shows the lower portion of a vertical upflow air handler for a heat pump. Return air flows down the return ducting (silver) installed to the left of the air handler. The air follows the duct work in a U-turn to enter the air handler from below. The first component the air contacts is the filter (notice the horizontal filter panel at the bottom of the unit). The heat pump coils are located above the filter, as indicated by the refrigerant lines (upper left) and condensate drainpipe (lower right). This configuration allows the filter to protect the rest of the system from debris and dust.

    Filter access panel
    Figure 1. The filter access panel on this vertical upflow air handler is located at the bottom of the unit, between the return ductwork (below) and the air handler (above). (Courtesy of PNNL)
     

     

    Filters must be installed in the correct orientation to work properly. Most commercial filters have an arrow on the edge of the filter indicating the direction of airflow when properly installed (Figure 2). If the filter in Figure 2 were to be installed in an upflow air handler (like the one shown in Figure 1), then the arrow should be facing upwards (even though the writing would be upside down in this case).

    Airflow direction labeled on edge of filter
    Figure 2. The airflow direction is labeled on the edge of this filter to ensure it is properly oriented when installed. (Courtesy of PNNL)

     

    Filters are available in a range of styles, materials, and sizes. They’re generally one to four inches thick, made of polyester and/or fiberglass, and styled in a flat or pleated pattern (Figure 3).

    4-inch-thick filter
    Figure 3. This 4-inch-thick pleated filter is designed for highly efficient particulate capture, as indicated by its very high MERV rating. (Courtesy of Calcs Plus.)
     

    Filters use either mechanical filtration or electrostatic filtration to remove particulates from the air. Mechanical (i.e., surface media) filtration is the capture of particulates through a dense fiber medium. Typically, the filter media are pleated, which allows for more surface area to capture debris. Electrostatic filtration uses electrostatic precipitation to remove particulates. Some filter models on the market combine mechanical and electrostatic filtration. Filters can be replaceable or washable and reusable. Replacement filters are typically made of synthetic media or fiberglass. They should be replaced every three months or sooner if needed, especially if the HVAC equipment is used continually. Filters loaded with particulates should be thrown away. Washable filters typically use electrostatic filtration and are made of aluminum mesh or foam rubber. They should be removed for cleaning once every one to three months, rinsed with water or cleaning solution, air dried, and then re-installed. If washable air filters are not dried properly, they have the potential to harbor mold.

    There are two elements of HVAC filter performance: (1) the effectiveness at removing particles from the air and (2) resistance to airflow (i.e., pressure drop) across the filter. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating is one measure of a filter’s ability to capture particles sized from 0.3 to 10 micrometers (μm) from the air stream. It is measured by the test method in the ASHRAE 52.2 Standard. MERV rating corresponds to a level of performance ranging from 1 to 16 - the higher the MERV rating, the more effective a filter is at capturing particles passing through it. ENERGY STAR requires filters that are MERV 6 or higher, and DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home program and EPA’s Indoor airPlus program require MERV 8 or higher. The EPA and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommend a minimum filter rating of MERV-13 for managing COVID-19 and other virus concentrations in a home (EPA 2023, ASHRAE 2023).

    Another measure of a filter’s effectiveness at removing particles is particle size efficiency, which is the fraction (or percentage) of particles captured on a filter, as determined by the test method in AHRI Standard 680. Particle size efficiency is measured across three particle‐size bins: 0.3 to 1.0 μm, 1.0 to 3.0 μm, and 3.0 to 10.0 μm. The percentages correspond to MERV rating as shown in Table 1, which is based on the National Air Filtration Association’s Understanding MERV Guide and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Residential Air Cleaners (Second Edition).

    Table 1. MERV filter performance characteristics. (Courtesy of PNNL, based on NAFA 2017 and EPA 2009)
    MERV Filter Performance Characteristics
    MERV RatingComposite Average Particle Size Capture Efficiency (%) in Size Range (µm)Typical ApplicationsTypical Controlled Contaminants
    Range E1:
    0.3 - 1.0 µm
    Range E2:
    1.0 - 3.0 µm
    Range E3:
    3.0 - 10.0 µm
    1n/an/a<20%Minimal equipment protection in residential and light commercial applicationsPollen, dust mites, Spanish moss, carpet fibers, spray paint dust
    2n/an/a<20%
    3n/an/a<20%
    4n/an/a<20%
    5n/an/a>20%Good equipment protection in residential applications, minimal equipment protection in commercial and industrial applicationsAll of the above, plus: mold spores, pet dander, hair spray, fabric protector, powdered milk
    6n/an/a>35%
    7n/an/a>50%
    8n/a>20%>70%
    9n/a>35%>75%Superior equipment protection in residential applications, good equipment protection in commercial and industrial applicationsAll of the above, plus: Legionella, humidifier dust, lead dust, milled flour, auto emission particles
    10n/a>50%>80%
    11>20%>65%>85%
    12>35%>80%>90%
    13>50%>85%>90%Healthcare and hospitals, superior equipment protection in commercial and residential applicationsAll of the above, plus: bacteria, cooking oil, most smoke, face powder, paint pigments
    14>75%>90%>95%
    15>85%>90%>95%
    16>95%>95%>95%

     

    The second aspect of HVAC filter performance is pressure drop or resistance to airflow. As the air stream passes through the filter, it decreases its velocity due to the resistance of the filter. This resistance is measured in inches of water column (IWC, or in. w.c.) at either a specific face velocity or airflow rate. The resistance to airflow of a new filter is called the “initial pressure drop,” whereas the resistance when the filter is loaded with particulates is called the “final pressure drop.” The contribution of the filter to the total system pressure drop is typically 20%-50%, depending on the system configuration, filter efficiency, and loading condition. HVAC system engineers and designers are supposed to take the initial pressure drop of the filter into account when determining how to size HVAC equipment and related ductwork for residential or commercial buildings.

    The resistance to airflow in a high-static-pressure system causes the controls of brushless permanent magnet (BPM) blower motors to increase speed and power draw to maintain system airflow, resulting in an increase in energy consumption. Permanent split capacitor (PSC) blower motors do not have airflow controls like BPM blower motors and thus will not increase power and speed to maintain system airflow. Instead, since PSC blower motors cannot adjust speed or torque, airflow rates slow down in response to increasing system pressures. This results in a drop in power consumption as well. This is known as “fall off,” when the system pressure forces reduce airflow and power consumption. As a result, the run time necessary to cool or heat the ambient air to the thermostat’s set‐point temperature is extended, which can lead to an overall increase in energy use. In addition, excessive pressure drop can damage furnaces due to overheating, can freeze condensing coils in air conditioning units, and can burn out blower motors. It’s important for homeowners to purchase filters with a pressure drop performance that meets their HVAC system specifications to run their equipment efficiently and prevent damage. The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Manual D Residential Duct Systems offers guidance for sizing residential ducting systems, including sizing HVAC filters for pressure drop in the system.

    Having a high MERV rating does not necessarily mean that a filter will have a higher pressure drop than one with a lower MERV rating. Pressure drop can be greatly reduced by the design of the filter, regardless of MERV rating. Filters with deeper pleats or an increased number of pleats tend to have lower pressure drop. Having a high number of pleats and/or deeper pleats increases the overall surface area of the filter media, which in turn lowers pressure drop without changing the MERV rating. For example, a filter that has 4-inch-deep pleats has twice as much surface area as a filter with 2-inch pleats. If a homeowner is requesting a very high MERV filter, it may require the alteration or replacement of ducting if the pressure drop of the filter is greater than the pressure drop allotted to the filter in the system design. Another option is to advise the homeowner to purchase separate air filtration equipment that can clean air without impacting the performance of the HVAC equipment.

    One option for reducing pressure drop involves modifying the return ductwork near the air handler or furnace to increase filter surface area. If the furnace is in a location where it can be accessed by the homeowner for filter replacement and where the furnace location permits an increase in the width of the return duct, the following approach may enable the installation of higher MERV filters.

    1. Calculate pressure drop and airflow requirements for the desired filter MERV rating and dimensions in accord with Manual D (ANSI/ACCA 2009).
    2. Construct a box to hold two filters side-by-side (or one larger filter) in the return duct above the 90-degree turn into the return air plenum.
    3. Increase the duct width to accommodate the filter dimensions above and below this filter box.
    4. If possible, install the filter box at shoulder height for easier servicing. See Figure 4.
    Return Duct
    Figure 4. To increase surface area and reduce pressure drop for high MERV filters, the return duct can be constructed to permit the installation of two furnace filters side by side if space at the HVAC installation permits and if the HVAC location makes filter replacement practical. (Courtesy of Calcs Plus.)

     

    Most residential HVAC systems operate efficiently when the total pressure drop across the system (including all the components) is no higher than 0.4 or 0.5 in. WC static pressure. The standard air handler with a permanent split capacitor (PSC) motor is capable of moving the required air flow at about 0.5 in. WC of pressure drop. A variable speed air handler with an electrically commutated (ECM) motor is most efficient when operating at low static pressures (0.3 to 0.5 in. WC).

    If a filter with a pressure drop of 0.25 is used in an air handler with a PSC motor, the filter alone can use half of the system’s available static pressure. If a high MERV filter is installed without designing for it and the static pressure is increased to an amount much higher than the optimum, several negative consequences can result:

    1. The HVAC system’s overall efficiency (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or SEER) will go down.
    2. The equipment could malfunction or burnout. Motor burnout is more likely to occur with an ECM motor than with a PSC motor. A PSC blower motor will work up to about 0.5 in. WC, then it will “fall off,” i.e., the motor will stop pushing, although the fan will continue to turn. With an ECM, although it is most efficient at 0.3 inches of static pressure, it will continue to work if the static pressure goes up, even as high as 1 in. WC. The ECM will not fall off like a PSC motor; it will continue trying to meet the target cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air flow, but the fan motor will work harder and harder until it burns itself out.
    3. In hot, humid climates, if the pressure drop is too high across the filter (i.e., if the filter offers too much resistance), it slows down the air coming through the fan and decreases supply air speed so much that the air in the supply ducts gets too cold. If the ducts are located in a vented, hot, humid attic, the temperature differential is enough to drop the outside surface of the ducts below dewpoint, which can cause sweating on the ducts and eventually can cause the evaporator coil to ice up.

    It should be noted that pressure drop through a high-MERV filter varies depending on the velocity of the air flow. Air filters with MERV ratings of 7 to 14+ can have pressure drops anywhere from 0.05 to 0.3 inches WC, depending on filter thickness and air flow velocity. For example, a 4-inch-thick MERV 12 filter can have a 0.2-inch WC pressure drop at a velocity of 300 feet per minute (FPM) and a 0.35-inch WC pressure drop at a velocity of 500 FPM (which is the maximum desired velocity for residential HVAC; 200 FPM to 400 FPM is preferred). The velocity across the filter depends on filter area; the velocity is an input in the Manual D calculation. Filter area can be increased by selecting filters with higher pleats or larger overall dimensions. This may be limited by the HVAC equipment purchased or may require in-field fabrication of a larger filter port on the air handler unit.

    As illustrated in Figure 5 below, filter resistance varies by surface area. Deeper pleats or bigger filter dimensions add surface area. Three MERV 7 filters made by the same manufacturer can vary significantly in rated resistance:

    • Filter A is a 1-inch-thick filter with 0.20-inch WC at 300 feet per minute (FPM) air flow velocity
    • Filter B is a 2-inch-thick filter with 0.13-inch WC at 300 FPM
    • Filter C is a 4-inch-thick filter with 0.12-inch WC at 300 FPM
    Furnace Filter Resistance
    Figure 5. Furnace filter resistance varies by surface area; deeper pleats add surface area and decrease pressure drop across the filter. (Source: American Air Filter.)

     

    Not all manufacturers give specifications on their filters. Avoid purchasing filters from manufacturers who won’t provide static pressure measurements. Beginning April 1, 2019, the State of California required manufacturers to label HVAC filters with the MERV rating, particle size efficiency (across three particle size bins), and pressure drop (across five airflow rates, as applicable). The label either resides on the edge of the filter or on the pleats so consumers can readily access the information to purchase an appropriate replacement (Figure 6). Looking at Figure 6, the MERV rating of the filter is shown on the very left (MERV 13). Next to this is a table of particle capture efficiencies (e.g. in the particle size range of 0.30-1.0 μm, this filter has a 62% capture efficiency). On the right hand side is a table of pressure drops and associated airflow rates (e.g. this filter has a pressure drop of 0.08 IWC at and airflow rate of 410 CFM. To the very right is the maximum rated airflow for this filter (1,390 CFM). The highly pleated design of this filter allows it to achieve reasonable pressure drop at lower airflows given it’s high MERV rating and narrow profile (1 inch).

    Particle Capture Efficiencies
    Figure 6. The MERV rating, particle capture efficiencies, and pressure drops are printed on the side of this 1-inch pleated filter. (Courtesy of PNNL)

     

    The accumulation of dirt and particles can greatly increase pressure drop across a filter. Making filters accessible for easy replacement and providing controls that tell homeowners when replacement is due will help to eliminate problems such as clogging and filter collapse, which are more likely to occur with higher MERV filters (Springer 2009). If exceptionally high filtration is desired (above MERV 13), some sources suggest using separate air filtration equipment with a HEPA filter that can clean the air without impacting furnace performance, although their functionality is localized as opposed to whole house (EPA 2009).

    For more on HVAC filter installation, see the guide “Proper Installation of Furnace and Air-Handler Filters.”

    How to Select a High MERV Filter

    1. Design (or require the HVAC contractor to design) the HVAC duct system using ACCA Manual D to determine the maximum static pressure that the filter can have and select a MERV 6 or higher filter within that limit. Adjust the duct size, duct length, and/or filter surface area as necessary to ensure that the total pressure drop across the system does not exceed the blower fan motor’s limit, given the size of the unit.
    2. After the HVAC equipment and filter are installed, measure the total static pressure of the system. With a manometer, measure the supply side with respect to ambient house pressure, measure the return side with respect to ambient house pressure, then add both numbers together. The result should equal no more than 0.4 or 0.5 inches w.c.

     

    Success
    Ensuring Success

    In homes with ducted HVAC equipment, the HVAC designer should specify HVAC systems with filters that are rated MERV 6 or higher and ensure that the HVAC system can accommodate the pressure drop associated with higher MERV filters. When certifying ENERGY STAR Single-Family New homes, the HERS rater should inspect to make sure that MERV 6 or higher filters are installed. When assessing EPA Indoor airPLUS and DOE Zero Energy Ready certified homes, the rater should verify that MERV 8 or higher filters are installed in. For homes or areas needing to address COVID-19 or other virus concentrations, MERV-13 or higher is recommended.

    Ozone generators are sometimes marketed as air cleaners. Research has shown that these devices are not safe or effective in removing pollutants. Ozone is a lung irritant that can cause adverse health effects. Ozone can mix with other chemicals in the environment to produce harmful byproducts. More information on ozone generators sold as air cleaners and the health risks of ozone can be found at EPA's Indoor Air Quality website.

    Climate
    Climate

    No climate-specific information applies.

    Training
    Right and Wrong Images
    Image
    The installed filter is not a MERV 6 filter
    The installed filter is not a MERV 6 filter
    Image
    The installed filter is at least a MERV 6 filter
    The installed filter is at least a MERV 6 filter
    Image
    Right – An HVAC contractor installs a 4-inch-thick MERV 13 filter at the intake grille of this return air vent to prevent dust, allergens, smoke, and viruses from entering the duct system.
    Right – An HVAC contractor installs a 4-inch-thick MERV 13 filter at the intake grille of this return air vent to prevent dust, allergens, smoke, and viruses from entering the duct system.
    Image
    Remove the plastic wrap, but not the cardboard frame, before installing the furnace/air handler filter in the filter slot or above the return grate; note, the metal wire over the filter fabric can be very sharp.
    Remove the plastic wrap, but not the cardboard frame, before installing the furnace/air handler filter in the filter slot or above the return grate; note, the metal wire over the filter fabric can be very sharp.
    Image
    A comparison of a dirty furnace filter on left and clean filter on right. Dirty filters block airflow and make the furnace or air handler work harder.
    A comparison of a dirty furnace filter on left and clean filter on right. Dirty filters block airflow and make the furnace or air handler work harder.
    Image
    Insert the new furnace/air handler filter in the filter slot of the furnace or air handler with the arrow pointed in the direction of air flow.
    Insert the new furnace/air handler filter in the filter slot of the furnace or air handler with the arrow pointed in the direction of air flow.
    Image
    This new filter is inserted into furnace filter slot on the return side of the furnace with the arrow on the side of the filter frame pointing in the direction of airflow, which is toward the furnace.
    This new filter is inserted into furnace filter slot on the return side of the furnace with the arrow on the side of the filter frame pointing in the direction of airflow, which is toward the furnace.
    Image
    Furnace filters come in many sizes; verify the correct size when purchasing for proper fit in the filter slot.
    Furnace filters come in many sizes; verify the correct size when purchasing for proper fit in the filter slot.
    Image
    After inserting the new filter, replace the filter slot cover to minimize air leakage and heat loss.
    After inserting the new filter, replace the filter slot cover to minimize air leakage and heat loss.
    Image
    The furnace filter slot cover should fit tightly to minimize air leakage but it should not be taped or caulked to enable frequent filter replacements.
    The furnace filter slot cover should fit tightly to minimize air leakage but it should not be taped or caulked to enable frequent filter replacements.
    Image
    Dispose of used filters in the garbage or purchase washable, reusable filters if desired and available for your furnace or air handler.
    Dispose of used filters in the garbage or purchase washable, reusable filters if desired and available for your furnace or air handler.
    Compliance

    Compliance

    The Compliance tab contains both program and code information. Code language is excerpted and summarized below. For exact code language, refer to the applicable code, which may require purchase from the publisher. While we continually update our database, links may have changed since posting. Please contact our webmaster if you find broken links.

     

    ENERGY STAR Single-Family New Homes, Version 3/3.1/3.2

    National Rater Field Checklist

    HVAC System. 
    9. Filtration.
    9.1 MERV 6+ filter(s) installed in each ducted mech. system, located to facilitate occupant access & regular service. 62

    Footnote 62) Based upon ASHRAE 62.2-2010, ducted mechanical systems are those that supply air to an occupiable space with a total amount of supply ductwork exceeding 10 ft. in length and through a thermal conditioning component, except for evaporative coolers. Systems that do not meet this definition are exempt from this requirement. While filters are recommended for mini-split systems, HRV’s and ERV’s, these systems, ducted or not, typically do not have MERV-rated filters available for use and are, therefore, also exempted under this version of the requirements. HVAC filters located in the attic shall be considered accessible to the occupant if either 1) drop-down stairs, a pull-down ladder, or door provide access to attic and a permanently installed walkway has been provided between the attic access location and the filter or 2) the filter location enables arm-length access from a portable ladder without the need to step into the attic and the height of the ceiling access panel or the bottom of the wall access panel where access is provided is ≤ 12 ft.

    Please see the ENERGY STAR Single-Family New Homes Implementation Timeline for the program version and revision currently applicable in in your state.

     

    DOE Zero Energy Ready Home Version 1

    Exhibit 1 Mandatory Requirements.
    Exhibit 1, Item 1) Certified under the ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes Program or the ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction Program.
    Exhibit 1, Item 6) Certified under EPA Indoor airPLUS

    DOE Zero Energy Ready Home Version 2

    Exhibit 1 Mandatory Requirements.
    Exhibit 1, Item 2) Certified under the ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes Program or the ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction Program.
    Exhibit 1, Item 7) Certified under EPA Indoor airPLUS

    EPA Indoor airPLUS (Revision 04)

    4.7 Filtration for Central Forced-Air HVAC Systems. Equip all filter access panels with gasket material or comparable sealing mechanism and ensure access panels fit snugly against the exposed edge of the installed filter when closed to prevent bypass. Install only HVAC filters that are rated MERV 8 or higher according to ASHRAE 52.2-2007 (at approximately 295 fpm).

    Advisory: EPA recommends, but does not require, filters rated at MERV 13 or higher to reduce exposure to fine particles. Filters perform best when the filter rack design includes the following features, which are also included in some manufacturers’ filter media boxes:

    • Flexible, air-tight (e.g., closed-cell foam) gasket material on the surface that contacts the air-leaving (downstream) side of the filter.
    • Friction fit or spring clips installed on the upstream side of the filter to hold it firmly in place. 
    • Upon installation of the air handling unit, include a filter for the remainder of construction activity to protect the unit and/or coil from construction debris and dust. Filter should be clean upon final inspection following construction (see Specification 7.1).

     

    2022 California Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards

    The 2022 California Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards require all HVAC filters to be MERV 13 or greater. Filters must be labeled by the manufacturer to disclose the capture efficiency and pressure drop ratings.

     

    American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 52.2-2017 - Method of Testing General Ventilation Air-Cleaning Devices for Removal Efficiency by Particle Size

    Standard 52.2 establishes a method of laboratory testing to measure the performance of general ventilation air-cleaning devices in removing particles of specific diameters.

     

    ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022 –Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality

    ASHRAE Standard 62.1 sets specifications and measures for ventilation system design and indoor air quality.

     

    ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2022

    ASHRAE Standard 62.2 "Ventilation and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise Residential Buildings" sets specifications and measures for ventilation system design and indoor air quality in low-rise residential buildings.

     

    American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) Standard 680, 2017 Standard for Performance Rating of Residential Air Filter Equipment

    Standard 680 establishes definitions, classifications, test requirements, data requirements, ratings, operating requirements, marking and nameplate data and conformance conditions for residential air filter equipment.

    Retrofit
    Existing Homes

    SCOPE

    Replace the air filters in ducted heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) equipment with new filters having a MERV rating of 6 or higher and a resistance to airflow that does not exceed the allowable pressure drop for the HVAC system.

    • Check the condition of the existing HVAC filters. If the filters are loaded with particulates, replace with new, higher MERV filters when performing HVAC-related home performance upgrades and when responding to comfort complaints. Make sure the new filters do not exceed the allowed pressure drop for the HVAC system.
    • If the homeowner requests a high-MERV (or HEPA) filter, verify the pressure drop will still be within acceptable limits.
    • Provide homeowners with information for future filter replacement, such as the date of the next filter replacement, designed pressure drop for the filter, and installation instructions.
    • Follow safe work practices as described in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Standard Work Specifications when replacing and handling HVAC filters and inspecting air handlers.

    DESCRIPTION

    How to Install and Specify High-MERV Filters in an Existing Home

    • At the HVAC equipment, identify the return grille label, if available. Write down the initial resistance (inches water column, inch w.c.) of the HVAC filter at the design airflow rate (cubic-feet per minute, cfm).
    • Go to each HVAC filter location and write down the dimensions of the existing filters. If there are air gaps around any of the filters, then use a measuring tape to determine the appropriate dimensions.
    • When purchasing or ordering new HVAC filters, use the resistance-to-airflow specified on the return grille label to purchase a replacement with the appropriate resistance-to-airflow. If the return grille label doesn’t exist and specified filter resistance-to-airflow for the HVAC equipment is unavailable, try to determine the resistance-to-airflow of the spent filter (either on the filter, or via internet or retail salesperson). If no information is available for the resistance-to-airflow, consider purchasing the same or a similar model of HVAC filter as the spent filter. Use the filter dimensions you’ve written down to ensure the replacement is the proper size. Identify filters with a MERV rating of 6 or higher. If possible, select a filter with the static pressure measurements listed on the packaging or online.
    • Once you’ve acquired new HVAC filters, note the installation date and recommended replacement date on the edge with permanent marker so the homeowner can track the replacement cycle. Also note the MERV level and the specified air filter resistance-to-airflow if these are not already printed on the filter.
    • Turn off the HVAC equipment or set the thermostat so it won’t operate while replacing the filters.
    • Remove the spent filters from the ducted HVAC equipment.
    • When installing the new HVAC filters, remove the plastic wrap but do not remove the cardboard framing. Identify the airflow arrow and align the filter so the arrow points toward the HVAC equipment in the return duct or return register grille.
    • Insert the HVAC filter into the designated slot.
    • Restore any levers, gaskets, seals, or grilles to their appropriate condition.
    • Turn the HVAC equipment back on or return the thermostat to the appropriate temperature.
    • Contractors, show homeowners how to replace their HVAC filters and advise that they be replaced every three months, or more often if needed, especially in homes with HVAC equipment that runs six to twelve months per year, with four or more occupants, with pets, smoking indoors, occupants with allergies, or if construction is taking place within or outside the home. Show the homeowner the installation date and recommended replacement date noted on the filter frame.
    • Contractors, advise homeowners to check HVAC filters periodically. Filters should be replaced immediately if the filters are clogged with debris, have collapsed fins, are making a banging noise when the system comes on, or are damp or moldy.
    • For homeowners who desire or require HEPA level filtration -  a HEPA filter will typically add too much pressure drop if placed in the main return register. A bypass can be installed between the supply and return plenums to filter a portion of the air through the HEPA filter as the system operates. Alternatively, an independent, free-standing HEPA filter system can be located in a room in the home, for example, a bedroom where the affected occupant spends most of their time while at home. Another alternative is to install an electronic air cleaner (EAC). There are several on the market based on various technologies such as electrostatic precipitators or ultraviolet light based systems. The EPA recommends against using ozone generators because ozone is a lung irritant (Guide to Air Cleaners). 

    COMPLIANCE

    See Compliance tab. 

    More

    More Info.

    Access to some references may require purchase from the publisher. While we continually update our database, links may have changed since posting. Please contact our webmaster if you find broken links.

    Case Studies
    References and Resources*
    Author(s)
    Springer David
    Organization(s)
    Home Energy Magazine
    Publication Date
    Description
    Information sheet about efficiency and health benefits of MERV filters.
    Author(s)
    Calcs Plus
    Organization(s)
    Calcs Plus
    Description
    A professional heating and air conditioning design company, specializing in both residential and light commercial work.
    Author(s)
    American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers
    Organization(s)
    ASHRAE,
    ANSI
    Publication Date
    Description
    Standard establishing a test procedure for evaluating the performance of air-cleaning devices as a function of particle size. This is the current version of the standard, which was published in the year 2017, and is available for preview and purchase at the reference link. The ASHRAE bookstore also...
    Author(s)
    U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
    National Service Center for Environmental Publications
    Organization(s)
    EPA,
    NSCEP
    Publication Date
    Description
    Source for information about Carbon Monoxide including health effects and measures to reduce exposure.
    Author(s)
    U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
    Organization(s)
    EPA
    Publication Date
    Description
    Webpage with links to documents providing the program requirements and checklists for ENERGY STAR Certified Single-Family New Homes.
    Author(s)
    U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
    Organization(s)
    EPA
    Publication Date
    Description
    Indoor airPLUS is a voluntary partnership and labeling program that helps new home builders improve the quality of indoor air by requiring construction practices and product specifications that minimize exposure to airborne pollutants and contaminants.
    Author(s)
    American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers,
    American National Standards Institute
    Organization(s)
    ASHRAE,
    ANSI
    Publication Date
    Description
    Standard that defines the roles of and minimum requirements for mechanical and natural ventilation systems and the building envelope intended to provide acceptable indoor air quality in low-rise residential buildings; published in the year 2019, and is available for preview and purchase at the...
    Author(s)
    American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers
    Organization(s)
    ASHRAE,
    ANSI
    Publication Date
    Description
    Standard that defines the roles of and minimum requirements for mechanical and natural ventilation systems and the building envelope intended to provide acceptable indoor air quality in low-rise residential buildings. This version of the standard was published in the year 2013, and is available for...
    Author(s)
    American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers
    Organization(s)
    ASHRAE
    Publication Date
    Description
    Standard that defines the roles of and minimum requirements for mechanical and natural ventilation systems and the building envelope intended to provide acceptable indoor air quality in low-rise residential buildings. This version of the standard was published in the year 2016, and is available for...
    Author(s)
    American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers
    Organization(s)
    ASHRAE
    Publication Date
    Description
    ASHRAE Q&A addressing HVAC filtration and disinfection for reducing the spread of COVID-19.
    *For non-dated media, such as websites, the date listed is the date accessed.
    Contributors to this Guide

    The following authors and organizations contributed to the content in this Guide.

    Sales
    Building Science Measures
    Building Science-to-Sales Translator

    High-MERV Filter = High Capture Filter

    Image(s)
    Technical Description

    Furnace filters can clean indoor air by trapping dust, pollen, mold spores, pet dander, and other indoor air contaminants. Air filter efficiency is defined in MERVs, or “Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value.” A typical 1-inch-thick spun fiberglass furnace filter has a rating of 1 to 4 on the MERV scale and can trap only large particles like sawdust, carpet fibers, dust mites, and pollen. High capture filters like those specified for Indoor airPLUS Certified Homes must be at least MERV 8. These filters can remove most cement dust, mold spores, animal dander, hair spray, and even smaller particles from air. Even higher MERV levels are available including HEPA filters with MERV ratings from 17 to 20 that can filter out particles smaller than 0.3 microns, including viruses. However, higher MERV filters restrict airflow. As a result, heating and cooling system air handlers need to be designed to for a filter size that meets air flow requirements.

    High Capture Filter
    Sales Message

    High-capture filters can remove dangerous particles from the comfort system air stream. What this means to you is your family can breathe better every day knowing your home is equipped to help manage a critical respiratory contaminant.  Wouldn’t you agree protecting health is too important to ignore in new homes?

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