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MERV 13 Pleat vs. MERV 8 Pleat vs. Mech 8

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CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) has come out with a new recommendation of MERV 13 pleated filters in commercial buildings. Is this a good idea for you to switch?

Let‘s compare three different filter types available in the market.

We have made an estimated cost for 3 years. During these challenging times does it make more sense to spend more money? Comparing the pressure drop or W.G. (water gauge) filters with a higher pressure drop or W.G. will incur higher energy costs due to longer run times to achieve desired interior temperatures and to HVAC motors having to work harder to move the same amount of air.

  • Infinite Gold 8 24 x 24 x 1 – MERV 8 with a .14” WG – $48.87*
  • MERV 8 Pleat 24 x 24 x 1 – MERV 8 with a .21” WG @ 500 FPM – Average cost of $127.80*
  • MERV 13 Pleat 24 x 24 x 1 – MERV 13 with a .38” WG @ FPM – Average cost of $180*

*3-year cost based on the recommended 4 change–outs each year.

Looking at the particle diameter (MERV Ratings) you will notice viruses are the size of .01-.05 microns. The recommended MERV 13 pleated filters only filter about 67.5% of E1 on an official independent ASHRAE 52.2 test report. During an E1 test report, they test particle sizes of 0.3-1 µm (micron). During an official ASHRAE 52.2 test, they do not test under .3 microns for MERV 13 pleated filters or a lower MERV rating. This CDC recommended MERV 13 pleated filter is not even testing for viruses essentially. It is not recommended to install a HEPA filter since these MERV 13 pleated filters do not capture viruses. It is recommended to have an air purifier in populated areas of a room that contains an official HEPA filter. After learning this information, our new goal is not to capture a virus in an HVAC unit, it should be geared towards cost efficiency. The cost of an Infinite Gold 8 over 3 years is about 3 times cheaper than the next option. Plus with its low-pressure drop, the HVAC motors will not have to work as hard which results in lower energy costs.

If you do not see your size available please contact us for a quote. We can make just about any size!

 

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