When it comes to air filters, there are two main rating systems that you need to be aware of: MERV and FPR. While they may seem similar, they are actually quite different. The MERV rating system is the industry standard and is used to measure the efficiency of air filters. The FPR rating system, on the other hand, was developed by The Home Depot specifically for brands sold in their stores.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the differences between these two rating systems and how they can help you choose the right air filter for your home. The MERV rating system was established by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) to help consumers understand what type of air filter best fits their home's needs. It uses a numerical scale (1-16) to measure the efficiency of air filters. The higher the MERV rating (between 1 and 16), the more and smaller particles will leak out of the air. However, it's important to note that a filter with a higher MERV rating may cause your central air system to work harder to push air through the filter. The FPR, or filter performance rating, is a rating system developed by The Home Depot for brands sold in its stores, including Honeywell.
It uses a color code and a numerical scale (4-10) that closely resembles the MERV rating. However, it is important to note that the FPR rating system does not directly correlate with MERV ratings. All air filters sold in The Home Depot stores have an FPR rating, but not all air filters have a MERV rating. Fortunately, you won't need to make a long list of pros and cons of MERV vs MPR or spend hours comparing FPR to MERV. Household air filters with higher MERV ratings should also be changed to a higher frequency due to their higher efficiency and particulate trapping capacity.
The MERV 13 air filters even provide additional filtration power against fine particles compared to the MERV 11 filters. In these cases, a MERV 11 air filter can provide additional benefits and capture a wider range of particles that would pass through a MERV 8 filter. When it comes time to choose an air filter for your home, it's important to understand the differences between these two rating systems. While the FPR rating system is only used in Home Depot stores, the MERV rating system is universal, making it much easier for homeowners to compare when looking for an air filter. With this knowledge in hand, you'll be able to make an informed decision about which type of filter is best for your home.
