Experts suggest using MERV on residential and industrial buildings. Because it enhances air quality and keeps it clean from toxic particles. Nowadays, adding MERV to medical centers and hospital air filters is compulsory. Now you will know about MERV 13 vs MERV 16.
MERV 16 can hold the smallest particles. But MERV 13 doesn’t have enough capacity to hold the smallest particles. Along with that, MERV16 is more durable than 13 values. This filter can improve air more efficiently than MERV 13.
About MERV 13 Filter
It is one of the common Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values. U.S Green Building Council and ASHRAE approve these pleated air filters. Moreover, it blocks heavy airflow and absorbs more particles than 8 and 10 filters. You will get the highest trapping formula into the pleated air filters. Thus, it is perfect for hospitals and pet shops.
About MERV 16 Filter
The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value offers maximum protection and blocks polluted air. Nevertheless, it has pinsonically welded construction. It is specially made for industrial HVAC filters. Yet, the MERV pleated air filter is blended with modern technology and a heavy-duty trapping mechanism. It eliminates 30 percent of annual functional costs.
Merv 13 vs Merv 16 Filter: Quick Comparison Table
Let’s look over the comparison table between MERV 13 & MERV 16 according to their specifications.
| Factors | MERV 13 pleated filter | MERV 16 pleated filter |
| Features |
|
|
| Types of controlled pollutants |
|
|
| Particle size efficiency (0.3-1.0 Micron) | Below 75% | 95% or more |
| Applications | House, General Surgery, Smoking Lounges, Final Filters | Upper Commercial Buildings, Inpatient Care of the hospital, Final Filters |
| Trapping capacity | High | High |
| Pressure dropping | 0.053 WG | 0.056WG |
| Using system | Used as final filter | Used as final filter |
| Performance | Good | Excellent |
| Air filter development | Better | Better |
| Price | $55.02 | $104.57 |
Difference Between MERV 13 & MERV 16 Filter
Here, the differences observed between these two types of MERV ratings are discussed below.
Features
Starting with the features, the MERV 13 reduces allergies, COPD, chronic bronchitis, asthma, lung disease, emphysema, and airborne viruses. However, you can use it in inhalers, non-VOC filters, and ventilation machines.
The MERV 13 filter works as much as 30 times extra powerful and lasts three times extended than regular fiberglass filters. In contrast, MERV 16 absorbs moisture and bacteria effectively. This filter can prevent coronavirus. Yet, it offers more effectiveness than other pleated air furnace filters.
Pressure dropping
Since MERV 13 offers the best filtration stage, it has the best preliminary pressure drop at approximately 0.053 WG. That means, of course, it won’t be made any hazard to your HAVAC system. Another side, in the case of pressure drop, the position of the MERV 16 filter is much higher than the MERV 13.
Performance
No air filter can give you a completely sterile environment. But MERV 13 will supply you with the purest air quality for your residence. With MERV 16, you will get the supply of the purest air, which is far more refined than that of MERV 13.
Application place
The air filters with MERV 13 pleated are the highest-rated air filters for domestic use. Develop the quality of your indoor air with MERV 13 pleated air filters! It uses an electrostatic rate to dispose of the very best particles out of your air. In simple words, MERV 16 filters aren’t perfect for most residents.
MERV 16 filters are frequently utilized in locations like hospitals, where there may be an excessive degree of unknown airborne viruses and bacteria — which could spread by air ducts.
The efficiency of trapping particles
MERV 13 filters can confine 75 percent of the 0.3-1.0 micron particles. On the other hand, MERV 16 can prevent 95% or more of the smallest particles from passing through. You must consider the efficiency before adding new pleated value to the furnace or HVAC filters.
Price
Air filters of various sizes will be at individual rates; the same goes for the filter’s MERV score. Filters with a better MERV score may be barely extra money than people with a decreased MERV score. Under this condition, the price of MERV13 is $55.02, which is lower than the MERV 16 filter, which is $104.57.
You may also be interested to know about the differences between frigidaire vs ge dishwasher.
What are the Similarities Between MERV 13 and MERV 16 Filters?
There are several similarities between these values because of being high-quality filters.
Trapping capacity
You have to understand the holding capacity because it helps to enhance the air quality better than regular filters. Both can trap the smallest particles like bacteria, dust mites, coral dust, tobacco smoke, pet dander, etc. These values are first-rate for all people with asthma or allergic reactions.
Using system
You have to understand the usage of these filters. It will help the filters to work better and enhance their performance. If you look into the system, you will find both values can be used in the final filter. However, it is one of the significant similarities of these values.
Air filter development
Another essential feature of the filters is the development. It would help if you considered it while buying a filter for your room. Improving the MERV rating in your HVAC air filter can develop the quality of your surrounding air. Plus, it may defend your cooling and heating structures from harm due to dirt build-up.
Quick Ratings of MERV 13 and MERV 16 Filters
|
Factors |
MERV 13 pleated filter |
MERV 16 pleated filter |
|
Features |
5/5 (Winner) |
4.5/5 |
|
Types of controlled pollutants |
5/5 (Winner) |
4.5/5 |
|
Particle size efficiency (0.3-1.0 Micron) |
4.5/5 |
5/5 (Winner) |
|
Applications |
5/5 (Winner) |
4.5/5 |
|
Trapping capacity |
5/5 |
5/5 |
|
Pressure dropping |
5/5 (Winner) |
4.5/5 |
|
Using system |
5/5 |
5/5 |
|
Performance |
4.5/5 |
5/5 (Winner) |
|
Air filter development |
5/5 |
5/5 |
|
Price |
5/5 (Winner) |
4.5/5 |
|
Test Result |
Champion 🏆 |
Runner up 🏃 |
Which One is Better, MERV 13 or MERV 16 Filter?
Most residential cooling and heating gadgets are developed to meet a little defense from the filter. That declares that the higher range of the MERV, the better your chance of stretching the unit. But the lower range of MERV may also allow in too much of the undesirable stuff. If you want a filter for your residence, MERV 13 pleated filter is perfect for use. And if you’ve had continual or extreme breathing problems, a MERV 13 rating might be appropriate.
Anyone in the family who calls for using an inhaler, ventilation machine, or oxygen tank might additionally decline into this group. Some surroundings do need air filters with MERV 16 range. But those are locations like hospitals, not houses. When you’re thinking about what to install in your home, we don’t suggest you move more than MERV 13. This is because MERV 13 is good enough to keep your air clean and fresh— simultaneously as not unfavorable to your HVAC gadget.
You can also read: MERV 13 Vs MERV 10 Filter – A Comparative Analysis on 10 Key Factors
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MERV 16 too restrictive?
An extra-efficient filter may be extra powerful at getting rid of particles that go into your HVAC system from the air. They will enhance the air excellent in your own home as properly and hold your lungs happy. Since the filtration is extra thorough, it’ll take extra electricity and an attempt out of your HVAC unit to apply them. That means using a filter with holes that are not the same as recommended; basically, you’re blocking up your HVAC gadget.
Does MERV 16 filter coronavirus?
ASHRAE presents many hints to assist you with the airborne mediation of COVID-19. One of their guidelines is the usage of air filters with at least a MERV 13 score, or the advanced HEPA score, while possible. Under these conditions, we can say that the MERV 16 filter can prevent coronavirus. A filter is the best and most powerful when air is shifting through. According to this cause, ASHRAE recommends growing the working schedules of airflow systems as much as 24/7 if possible.
Can my furnace handle a MERV 16?
All necessary air furnaces and air-con devices can manage MERV 16 filters; however, because MERV 16 filters tend to be pretty deep compared to conventional filters, the setup of devoted aftermarket housing is needed, which isn’t continually feasible. Some air-handling devices and furnaces are positioned in a decent area. Including some other bulky element and an aftermarket filter, a humidifier, or housing, is impossible, or at the least not cost-effective.
Is MERV 13 too restrictive?
MERV 13 air filters are top-notch air filters for domestic use. Any air filter with a score better than 13 will block airflow to the factor that may reason harm to your HVAC system, ensuing in an introduced cost to restore it. A MERV score of 13 & MERV 16 considers health facility degree air quality, so it’s far not likely your home desires any greater than that.
Final Thought
After all, I think it is easy to understand MERV 13 vs MERV 16 filter. I am suggesting MERV 16 for all purposes. Regardless it can add higher value to your home filter. You can make homemade masks and filters as it comes up in roller form. Don’t try to cross past what you want in your situation. Otherwise, it might be a waste of money and energy and provide unneeded pressure on the HVAC system.
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