MERV Rating |
Dust Spot Efficiency* |
Typical Controlled Contaminant |
Applications |
Air Filter Types |
1 |
<20% |
>10 micron Particle Size
Pollen, Dust Mites, Sanding Dust, Textile Fibers, Carpet Fibers |
Minimal Filtration
Residential
Window A/C Units |
Throwaway – Disposable fiberglass or synthetic
Washable – Aluminum
Electrostatic – Self Charging |
2 |
<20% | |||
3 |
<20% | |||
4 |
<20% | |||
5 |
<20% |
3-10 micron Particle Size
Mold Spores, Hair Spray, Fabric Protector, Dusting Aids, Cement Dust |
Commercial Buildings
Better Residential
Industrial Workplace
Paint Booth Inlet |
Pleated – Disposable, extended surface area
Throwaway – Disposable synthetic panel |
6 |
<20% | |||
7 |
25-30% | |||
8 |
30-35% | |||
9 |
40-45% |
1-3 micron Particle Size
Legionella, Humidifier Dust, Lead Dust, Auto Emissions, Welding fumes |
Better Commercial
Superior Residential
Hospital Laboratories
Welding Booth Inlet |
Bag Filter - synthetic media, typically 6”-36” deep
Box Filter – cartridge, typically 4” deep |
10 |
50-55% | |||
11 |
60-65% | |||
12 |
70-75% | |||
13 |
89-90% |
.3-1 micron Particle Size
All Bacteria, Most Tobacco Smoke, Proplet Nuceli (Sneeze) |
Superior Commercial
General Surgery
Hospital Rooms
Smoking Lounge |
Bag Filter - synthetic media, typically 6”-36” deep
Box Filter – cartridge, typically 4” deep |
14 |
90-95% | |||
15 |
>95% | |||
16 |
>95% |