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What does MERV measure and what does it mean?

MERV, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, is a numerical value given to filters in order to identify its filtering abilities.

This is now an international industry standard set up by the committee that oversees the filter industry. This standard is used for determining the filters ability to capture and hold dirt and dust in specific size ranges. Some filter manufacturers such as 3M use their own rating system,  which is not approved as an industry standard.  

MERV Rating Average Particle Size Efficiency in Microns
1-4 3.0-10.0 less then 20%
6 3.0-10.0 49.9%
8 3.0-10.0 84.9%
14 0.3-1.0 75%-84.9%, 1.0-3.0 90% or greater
16 0.3-1.0 75% or greater

A human hair is usually 60-100 microns in width.



Some of the most common filters found in residential use only have a MERV rating of 1 to 4. These are typically disposable panel type filters and do not do a good job of filtering the air because they will not stop particles smaller than 10 microns. NOTE: Filters in this range usually are not advertised with any specific MERV rating.


Filters with a MERV rating of 9 to 12 are used in commercial and industrial applications and will stop particles in the 1 to 3 micron range. These filters are a great choice for homeowners who want the best dust control possible. When using filters in this group it is important to change them on a regular schedule because if they become heavily loaded with dust they can have a negative impact on equipment performance.

3M Filter Ratings

What do filter rating scores indicate?

The filter performance rating system can be used to compare one filter to another and describes a filter's ability to remove particles from the air.

The HVAC, (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning) industry uses ASHRAE 52.2 testing, which assigns a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV). A larger MERV number means better filtration.

The Filtrete Advanced Allergen , FiltreteT Ultra Allergen , Filtrete Micro Allergen , and Filtrete Dust & Pollen are rated as MERV 12, MERV 11, MERV 11 and, MERV 8, respectively. 3M highlights the portion of the ASHRAE 52.2 test that focuses on sub-micron particles with its own performance rating. The filters above receive 1500 , 1250 , 1000 and 600 ratings, respectively.