I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Merv Rating For Furnace Filter (2023)

I have been dealing with allergies for as long as I can remember, and I have tried numerous high-rated filters to alleviate my symptoms. However, after moving into a new construction house, I decided to give the Nordic Pure MERV 8 filter a try based on the recommendation of the HVAC installation crew. I must say, I have been pleasantly surprised.

While the higher-rated filters initially seemed to do a better job at filtering out allergens, they quickly became clogged, resulting in reduced airflow and increased energy costs. This can also put a strain on your HVAC system. After doing some research, I discovered that the HVAC crew was right – the Nordic Pure MERV 8 filter is a cost-effective alternative.

I have been using these filters in my home for the past two years, and I have not noticed any significant difference in my allergies compared to when I was using more expensive allergy filters. To be safe, I change the filters monthly, although some online sources suggest they can last longer depending on usage. The filters fit perfectly in my 16x25x1 furnace housing, and I have never encountered any issues with them.

One thing to note is to ensure that the airflow arrow is pointing in the correct direction when installing the filter. This simple step ensures optimal performance. I highly recommend this filter for anyone looking for an affordable option that still provides effective filtration.

On a side note, I have noticed that these filters are sometimes available at a discounted price on the Amazon marketplace. However, I would caution against purchasing from there as I have experienced inconsistencies with the MERV rating. It is better to be safe and purchase directly from a trusted source.

In terms of performance, I have found that these filters provide better airflow compared to the higher-rated pleated filters I was using previously. The increased airflow not only catches more dust particles but also reduces strain on my furnace. After a couple of months of use, I changed the filters for the first time and noticed that they were not warped like my old filters, indicating a better fit for my furnace.

The only downside I have found with these filters is the blue color. Personally, I prefer white filters as it allows me to easily judge their dirtiness. The blue color makes it slightly more challenging to assess how dirty they are before replacing them. However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the overall effectiveness of the filters.

Thank you for taking the time to read my review.

– Becky Brooks

After conducting an experiment to test the higher quality filter in our home HVAC system, I can confidently say that the upgrade from a Merv 8 to Merv 12 was definitely noticeable. Initially, I had concerns about increased back-pressure in the system, but to my surprise, this filter made a significant improvement in reducing dust compared to the Honeywell Merv 8 filter we had been using for the past three years.

In fact, we decided to replace our Honeywell Electrostatic Filter Cartridges, which we had been using for six years, with this 4×20 filter (Honeywell size). We had experienced several issues and poor performance with the Electrostatic Unit, as it didn't effectively remove typical dust or odors. While the switch to a Merv 8 filter had provided a slight improvement, we were still looking for more.

Our HVAC system is rated to handle up to a Merv 13 filter without causing any harm, so we decided to give this higher quality filter a try. The challenge was finding a filter that balanced cost, performance, and longevity, especially with so many manufacturers claiming to have the best product. Fortunately, I got lucky with this filter.

Not only does it deliver excellent performance, but it also lasts longer than the previous filters we used. With our usage pattern, we can easily go six months before needing to replace the filter, and it could potentially last even longer without any concerns. Considering a three-year usage pattern and factoring in the overall improvement in dust reduction and odor control, the extra cost of this filter is definitely worth it.

Moving on to the second review, the customer expresses satisfaction with purchasing these filters for their Lennox air system for the second time. They have found that replacing the filters every six months provides good value for the price.

Lastly, the reviewer shares their positive experience with the Nordic Pure filters. They had previously relied on their HVAC company for filter replacements but found that these filters offered superior quality at a more affordable price. Compared to the flimsy boxes provided by the HVAC company, the Nordic Pure filters come in sturdy, non-crushable boxes, which impressed the customer. They appreciate the extra shipping protection provided by Amazon and have even subscribed to receive these filters regularly through Amazon's Subscribe & Save program.

I highly recommend these filters for anyone who is facing the same issue as me with their HVAC duct work. Our house was built with cheap shortcuts, and the builders simply cut a hole in the duct work and inserted a filter. However, a standard-sized filter does not fit in this slot. That's why I am glad I found these filters that are designed to be 1/2" undersized.

It is important to note that these filters are specifically made to fit into the inside of the metal ducts, which are measured on their outside. They are often referred to as "American" sized filters. If you have a quality home with a fully manufactured filter housing, then you may require full-sized filters. In that case, filters made overseas, such as those from China, are measured to the exact size as labeled and work well with a "REAL" filter housing.

Unfortunately, building codes do not always require a sealed filter housing, which was the case with our expensive tract house. As a result, a large hole was created in the duct side for each of our HVAC systems, allowing air to bypass the filter. This means that dust, fiberglass particles, and other debris from the attic were being sucked into our HVAC system. To combat this issue, we have had to purchase undersized filters and tape them into the openings. It is an ongoing process, but it has made a significant difference in the air quality of our home.

I want to emphasize that these filters have been a lifesaver for us. They are specifically designed to fit our unique situation, and I appreciate that they are available. Without them, we would have to spend time cutting down standard-sized filters from discount stores, which is not ideal. Nordic Pure's "American" size filters have made our lives much easier, and I highly recommend them to anyone facing similar challenges with their HVAC filter housing.

I recently purchased a 6-pack of 18×20 filters for my AC unit on Amazon, and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. This size filter is not easily found in stores, so I was relieved to find them available online. The filters have a high MERV rating, which means they are not flimsy and actually do their job of catching dust, pet hair, and soot from our fireplace. I have noticed a significant improvement in the air quality in our home since using these filters.

What impressed me even more was the price. Similar filters with a high MERV rating can cost upwards of $20 each in stores, but I was able to get them for an average price of $8 per filter on Amazon. Plus, the convenience of having them delivered right to my door with free shipping was a huge bonus. I was so satisfied with my initial purchase that I have already ordered a second batch, and will continue to do so in the future.

I even took some photos to demonstrate just how much dirt these filters are able to trap. With multiple pets and fireplaces in our home, there is a lot of dust and hair in the air, and these filters are doing a fantastic job of catching it all.

While these filters may not be the cheapest option out there, the HVAC technician I consulted assured me that they are the best filters on the market. This gives me confidence that I am getting quality for the money I spend.

In our older home, dust is a constant issue. The cheap filters from box stores didn't seem to make a difference, and the premium filters were overpriced. However, ever since I started using these Nordic Pure filters, I have noticed a significant decrease in the amount of dust settling on our furniture. The MERV 8 rating ensures that more impurities are caught from the air, although it may slightly decrease airflow. However, I have not experienced any issues with my AC unit working harder.

These filters are designed to last up to 3 months, but because they are priced so affordably, I plan on changing them every month during our higher use months.

One of the things I really appreciate about these filters is that they come in a multi-pack. I store them next to my attic HVAC unit so that I have a ready supply and can easily change the filter regularly. When I install the last one, I simply reorder a new pack, instead of putting it off and having to remember to go out and pick them up.

I am extremely satisfied with these filters. Not only are they of great quality, but they also come at an affordable price. I usually change my filters every 2 months, so the 6-pack provides me with a year's supply, which is very convenient.

I recently tested the strength of these filters by placing weights on them. To my surprise, there was almost no deformation at 10 lbs and only a quarter inch at 25 lbs when the weight was placed in the middle of the filter, supported on the edges. This demonstrates the durability and reliability of these filters.

In terms of the performance, these filters have exceeded my expectations. I opted for the MERV 12 filters and noticed a significant improvement in air quality. The dust levels in my house have noticeably decreased compared to when I was using MERV 10 filters from a different brand. The filters fit perfectly into my HVAC unit without any rattling, which was a common complaint among other users.

I appreciate the attention to detail in the construction of these filters. The material used is slightly heavier, which adds to the overall quality and effectiveness. I counted 27 pleats in these filters, whereas my previous MERV 10 filters had only 21 pleats. Despite the higher MERV rating, my HVAC unit did not struggle or experience any flow restrictions.

Regarding the size, I did some research and confirmed that these filters adhere to standard size standards. I compared them to Filtrete filters, which some reviewers claimed to be larger, but found no difference in size. Therefore, any complaints about the size of these filters seem unfounded.

I must address a couple of misconceptions mentioned by other reviewers. Firstly, the notion that these filters will break your air flow is baseless. If you encounter such issues, it may be time to consider replacing your HVAC unit altogether. Secondly, the claim that these filters do not work well because they are not dark grey after 45 days makes no sense. The filters are designed to trap dust and particles, and as long as they are not visibly damaged, they are doing their job effectively.

After extensive research and trying out different brands, we have finally found our go-to AC Furnace Air Filters: Nordic Pure. One of the reasons we chose this brand is because it is made in the USA, which is a big plus for us.

First and foremost, the exact fit of the 20x30x1 filter for our air intake in the wall was impressive. It slid right into place without any hassle. The filter itself is pleated and looks and feels high quality. The white color matches the picture accurately, which is always a good sign.

We were particularly amazed by the dust collection capabilities of these filters. Even though we were using a Merv 8 filter from a different brand before, the Nordic Pure filter managed to trap significantly more dust and dirt within a 30-day period. This is especially important for us, as we live in an area with a lot of dust from farming activities.

We also appreciate the attention to detail in the design of the filter. There are arrows on the side indicating the direction in which the filter should be placed in the intake. This makes installation much easier and hassle-free.

Furthermore, the packaging of the filters is excellent. They come in a solid thick wall box that ensures the filters arrive intact and undamaged. This is a significant improvement compared to other vendors we have tried in the past, where we often received damaged filters.

In terms of durability, we have been using Nordic Pure filters for several years now, and they have never failed us. They maintain their integrity and do not require any adjustments or bending to fit properly, unlike some of the filters we have bought from big box stores. Moreover, they appear to be better made and more sturdy, giving us confidence in their performance.

I recently made the switch from 3M Filtrete MPR 2200 and 2800 1" filters to the Nordic Pure MERV 13+ carbon filters, and I must say, I am quite impressed. One of the main reasons I decided to try these filters was because of their carbon component, which I hoped would help reduce odors in my home. And I wasn't disappointed – the carbon component made a noticeable difference in eliminating odors.

In terms of performance with particulates, I didn't notice a significant difference compared to my previous filters. My allergies seemed about the same, and the dust levels in my house remained similar both in the air and on surfaces. However, it's worth noting that my main goal in switching to a 2" filter was to reduce stress on my furnace fan. With the high-end 1" filters, I found that they would clog up quickly and significantly reduce airflow. This was a concern for me, as I had experienced a furnace fan failure in the past, which the HVAC technician attributed in part to not changing the filter frequently enough. While it's unclear whether the switch to these filters completely solved the airflow issue, I did notice that they seemed to clog up less quickly and still cost less than the 3M filters.

Before purchasing the Nordic Pure filters, I did some research and found that the MERV 13 rating was the highest recommended for use with a standard furnace like mine. This gave me confidence that I was making the right choice.

One thing to note is that the filters can be a bit expensive on Amazon compared to purchasing directly from the Nordic Pure website. The price difference can be significant, so it's worth checking both options before making a purchase.

Now let's talk about the Nordic Pure MERV 12 filters. I am extremely satisfied with my decision to switch from Honeywell or big box store filters to these. Here are the pros and cons I have observed:

Pros of Nordic Pure MERV 12 filters:

1. The filters are true to their stated size (16x25x2), with only a small discrepancy of about 1/16 inch on all dimensions.

2. They stay in place without folding or falling out, ensuring proper filtration.

3. The price is great, especially compared to MERV 12 (1") filters.

4. These filters are a nice upgrade from stock or generic filters, providing better performance.

5. They are a cost-effective option compared to 1" filters available at big box home improvement stores.

6. The filters come in sturdy packaging, which can be used to store them until it's time to change.

7. The filter material appears to be absorbent, effectively capturing particles.

Cons of Nordic Pure MERV 12 filters:

1. One downside is that the MERV rating is only printed on the big box that the 3 filters are shipped in. There is no labeling on the individual filters themselves.

Nordic Pure Air Filters offer exceptional filtration performance, effectively removing dust, pollen, smoke, pet dander, bacteria, and viruses from your indoor air. With a range of MERV ratings to choose from, these filters provide optimal protection for your HVAC system while promoting a healthier living environment. This review will delve into the notable features and benefits of Nordic Pure Air Filters, highlighting their superior filtering efficiency and longevity.

Superior Filtration Efficiency:

The MERV rating system categorizes air filters based on their effectiveness in removing airborne particles. Nordic Pure Air Filters excel in this regard, with their range of MERV 6, 8, 11, and 13 options. The MERV 6 filters are basic yet efficient, preventing dust and pollen from circulating in your air system. The MERV 8 filters offer even better protection by capturing dust mites and mold spores. With MERV 11 filters, smoke and pet dander are effectively filtered out, enhancing the overall air quality. Finally, the MERV 13 filters provide hospital-quality filtration, removing most bacteria and viruses. These filters ensure that you and your loved ones can breathe easier while minimizing the risk of airborne contaminants.

Elimination of Smoke Odor:

One user, who happens to be a smoker, noted that Nordic Pure Air Filters successfully eliminated the smoke odor that was left behind by another filter. By channeling the filter output through the whole house fan system, the smoke odor became undetectable throughout the house. This demonstrates the exceptional odor-capturing capabilities of these filters. As a result, the user now incorporates the Nordic Pure Air Filters into their local filter system, eliminating the need to run the whole house fan for smoke filtration. This positive experience highlights the reliability and efficiency of these filters, making them an ideal choice for smoke reduction.

Extended Lifespan of HVAC System:

In addition to providing cleaner air, Nordic Pure Air Filters also contribute to the longevity of your HVAC system. By capturing dust and other particles, these filters prevent them from entering the blower/handler, reducing the risk of damage and extending the lifespan of the system. This saves you from costly repairs and replacements, making Nordic Pure Air Filters a worthwhile investment.

Positive Psychological Impact:

Using superior filters like Nordic Pure Air Filters not only improves the physical air quality but also has a positive psychological impact. Users have reported feeling better in general about using these high-quality filters, compared to cheaper alternatives. The knowledge that their filters are effectively removing contaminants creates a sense of peace of mind and contributes to a more positive outlook. With the added benefit of carbon filtration, Nordic Pure Air Filters take advantage of a natural element to enhance air quality, further bolstering their effectiveness.

I recently switched to the Nordic Pure MERV 12 air filters after trying an equivalent MERV 12 filter from Lowe's. As someone with chronic health issues, including MCAS, I am highly sensitive to mold and fragrances. Unfortunately, I started experiencing rashes and fatigue after using the Lowe's brand, and I didn't initially attribute it to the filter.

What most people don't realize is that while filters can capture mold spores, they often fail to capture the toxins emitted by mold, which are the real culprits behind health issues. This is where activated charcoal comes in, as it is one of the few substances that can effectively capture mold toxins. After three weeks, I decided to switch back to Nordic Pure, and I gradually started noticing an improvement in my symptoms and overall well-being.

Although I don't have mold in my apartment, mold spores tend to blow in from outside and can even attach to people's clothes when they come indoors. That's how sensitive I am to these allergens. I must say, after using the Nordic Pure filters for 30 days (and changing them frequently), I am amazed by the amount of dust they have captured. It's truly remarkable considering I maintain a relatively clean living environment. I guess I have my dog to blame for some of it!

Another benefit of Nordic Pure filters is that they come in a bigger, rigid box, making it difficult for them to get bent or damaged during transport. This is something that other companies often overlook.

These filters have truly changed my life and improved my health. In fact, my entire family is now planning to switch to Nordic Pure filters as well. I have no intention of trying anything else because I don't want to risk compromising the air quality in my home.

In my mid-sized apartment, the basic mesh filter provided by my landlord every three months does little to filter out allergens. However, after just one night of using the Nordic Pure MERV 12 certified filter from 5 pm to 5 am, the difference was staggering. The attached picture speaks for itself.

Living in Louisiana, where pollen and dust mites are a constant problem, having the Nordic Pure filter has made a noticeable difference. Our home feels fresher, and my wife and I feel better overall. If this is the result after just 12 hours, I can't even imagine how the filter will look after three months. I wholeheartedly recommend Nordic Pure to anyone seeking cleaner, fresher-smelling air, especially those with allergies.

I have been purchasing these filters for a few years now and I always buy them in bulk packages. However, I recently encountered a problem with one of the filters where the pleat was trimmed short and did not adhere properly to the cardboard frame, resulting in a large air gap. Unfortunately, since I bought the pack of 12 a year ago, they are not eligible for return or exchange with Amazon. I would recommend performing a visual inspection of all filters upon receiving them to avoid any similar issues. Other than this one defective filter, I have found these filters to be of good quality and reasonably priced. It's just unfortunate that I don't have the option to get a replacement for the defective filter.

UPDATE: Despite the issue with the defective filter, I decided to purchase another 12 pack after trying a different brand and being dissatisfied with their poor quality. This time, I noticed that the new filters had black marks on the bottom, indicating that the quality control now includes checking the adhesion around the edges. All of the filters in the new pack looked good and performed well.

I had been searching for a set of filters for my AC unit when I came across this one. At first, the price seemed a bit high, but once I realized how thick the filter is, how long it lasts, and how effectively it filters the air, I realized it is worth the investment. If you compare it to the cheaper filters that need to be replaced every month, which cost around $10 each, this filter is actually more cost-effective in the long run. It should last several months unless you have extremely dusty air, in which case, you would have had to replace the cheaper filters more frequently as well.

The supplier delivered the filter within a week, and it was well packaged and exactly as advertised. While there may be cheaper filters available on the market, I would not recommend them unless you are a qualified HVAC design engineer who can evaluate the pressure drop and the effect of particulate size on your heat exchange efficiency. Personally, I switched from using MERV 13 filters for reduced allergies to this carbon filter recently, and I have already noticed a significant improvement in air filtering with less dusting in my apartment.