Why MERV 8 Is So Popular？

To understand why MERV 8 is so popular in the market, you have to know the common contaminants and applications for filters in each MERV group.

According to Mechanical Reps, the MERV rating chart breaks down as follows:

MERV 13 to 16 – effective at controlling airborne bacteria, most tobacco smoke, and pollutants released through sneezing. Applicable in general surgery suites, smoking lounges, and commercial buildings with superior HVAC systems.

MERV 9 to 12 – effective at controlling humidifier dust, lead dust, vehicle emissions, and welding fumes. Applicable in residences with superior HVAC systems, hospital labs, and commercial buildings

MERV 5 to 8 – effective at controlling mold spores, hair spray, dust. Applicable in most commercial buildings, residences, industrial workplaces, and paint booths. MERV 8 filters have 90 percent efficiency on particles that are 3 to 10 micrometers in size.

MERV 1 to 4 – effective at controlling larger particles such as sanding dust, spray paint dust, lint, and carpet fibers. Applicable in residences and window air conditioning units.

The majority of MERV 8 filters are two-inch, pleated filters that have been popular in the U.S. since the 1970s. They are commonly used in American households to eliminate basic pollutants present in most homes and to protect the performance and efficiency of the air-conditioning system.

A MERV 8 air filter is efficient at trapping a majority of indoor particulates that could debilitate those with asthma and allergies, or even cause long-term respiratory problems.

Another factor driving the popularity of MERV 8 filters is that they are inexpensive and easily serviced. Depending on the manufacturer they can last three to six months and even up to a year in residential use.