Shop by
While the global health emergency of COVID-19 may have faded, the importance of clean indoor air is here to stay. During the pandemic, many people became familiar with MERV-rated filters as a way to capture airborne viruses. But using a high-quality filter in your HVAC system is not overkill; it's smart, proactive maintenance for your home and health.
These filters are designed to protect you from a wide range of common indoor pollutants, not just viruses. From everyday dust and seasonal allergens to mold spores and bacteria, a good MERV filter is your first line of defense for maintaining healthy indoor air quality after COVID.
This guide will walk you through why MERV filters are still essential, how to choose the right one, and why proper installation is key. At Filterbuy, we provide trusted, high-quality, pleated MERV filters that keep your air clean all year round.
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It's a standardized rating system that tells you how effective an air filter is at capturing airborne particles of different sizes.
The rating scale runs from 1 to 20. The higher the number, the smaller the particles the filter can trap. For most homes and offices, filters rated between MERV 8 and MERV 13 are ideal. They efficiently capture common pollutants like:
While the immediate concern about a COVID air filter MERV rating may have lessened, these particles are always present indoors. According to ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers), a trusted authority in ventilation and air quality, a MERV 13 filter or higher is recommended for effective virus-level filtration. This makes them a smart choice for ongoing protection against seasonal illnesses and for maintaining excellent overall indoor air quality.
Choosing the right filter is only half the battle. If it isn't installed correctly, even the highest-rated filter won't do its job effectively. Always check for the airflow direction arrow on the filter's frame—it indicates which way the air should pass through it.
Common installation mistakes that reduce efficiency include:
As noted by industry resources, these simple errors are surprisingly common. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines, especially when upgrading to a higher-rated filter, to ensure your system operates efficiently and your air stays clean.
Many people still search for the best MERV filter rating for COVID, and the guidance remains consistent: ASHRAE recommends MERV 13 or higher for the best protection against airborne viruses. A MERV 13 filter can capture up to 98% of airborne particles, including smoke, bacteria, and viruses.
However, for everyday protection against common allergens and pollutants, pleated air filters with a MERV 8 to MERV 13 rating are excellent choices. It's all about finding the right balance. A filter with a very high MERV rating can sometimes restrict airflow in older or incompatible HVAC systems, straining the equipment.
Facility management experts also recommend MERV 13 for office buildings to ensure a healthier workspace. The key is to match the filter to your system's capabilities while achieving the level of filtration you need.
When you compare filter types, pleated filters consistently outperform basic fiberglass ones. Here’s why they are the superior choice for daily use:
These benefits make pleated filters the ideal foundation for achieving excellent indoor air quality.
Finding the right filter shouldn’t be a hassle. At Filterbuy, we make it simple to get high-quality, reliable filters delivered right to your door.
Here’s what sets Filterbuy apart:
Homeowners and businesses trust Filterbuy for cleaner air year-round because our filters fit right, last long, and deliver exceptional value.
Even with the pandemic in the rearview mirror, maintaining clean indoor air is essential for your health, comfort, and your HVAC system's efficiency. Consistently replacing your filters and ensuring they are installed correctly are simple steps that make a huge difference.
Shop Filterbuy’s pleated MERV 8–13 filters today and breathe easier knowing your air is clean, healthy, and properly filtered.
ASHRAE recommends a MERV 13 rating or higher for the most effective capture of airborne viruses like the one that causes COVID-19.
Absolutely. MERV filters are crucial for removing everyday pollutants like dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and bacteria from your indoor air, which contributes to better overall health.
Most modern residential HVAC systems can handle a MERV 13 filter, but it's always best to check your system's manual or consult an HVAC professional to ensure compatibility and avoid restricting airflow.
Yes. Pleated filters have more surface area, allowing them to capture more particles and last longer than traditional fiberglass filters while maintaining better airflow.
A higher MERV rating can increase resistance to airflow. It's important to choose a rating that is compatible with your HVAC system to ensure it can operate efficiently.
For most homes, replacing your filter every 90 days is recommended. However, if you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty area, you may need to replace it more frequently, such as every 30-60 days.
Installing an air filter backward can restrict airflow, reduce filtration efficiency, and put unnecessary strain on your HVAC system, potentially leading to damage.
Yes. Filters with a MERV 8 rating or higher are effective at capturing airborne particles like bacteria and mold spores, improving your indoor air quality.
Portable air purifiers with HEPA filters can be a great supplement to your HVAC system. They help capture airborne viruses and other pollutants in specific rooms, adding another layer of protection.
You can purchase high-quality, American-made pleated filters in a wide range of standard and custom sizes directly from Filterbuy.com.
