MERV
Science & Engineering abbreviation · Engineering
| Stands for | Minimum efficiency reporting value |
|---|---|
| Categories | Science & Engineering |
MERV stands for Minimum efficiency reporting value, an engineering abbreviation.
Rating from 1 to 16 that describes how well an HVAC air filter captures particles from about 0.3 to 10 micrometers, under the ASHRAE 52.2 standard. Higher numbers catch more fine particles; MERV 13 filters capture a large share of particles that carry viruses and smoke.
Example: Upgrade to MERV 13 filters during wildfire season if the furnace blower can handle them.
Usage notes
ASHRAE developed the rating in 1987. Higher-MERV filters can restrict airflow in some residential systems, so the equipment's limits should be checked. Filters better than MERV 16 fall into the HEPA category. Some retailers use their own rating scales, such as MPR or FPR.
Related abbreviations
More engineering abbreviations
- HSS – High-speed steel
- HVAC – Heating, ventilation and air conditioning
- ID – Inside diameter
- IP – Ingress protection (rating)
- LOTO – Lockout/tagout
- MEP – Mechanical, electrical and plumbing
- MIG – Metal inert gas (welding)
- MTBF – Mean time between failures
- MTTR – Mean time to repair
- NDT – Nondestructive testing
- NPT – National Pipe Thread
- O&M – Operations and maintenance