Introduction

Air conditioning filters play a decisive role in indoor air quality and air conditioning energy efficiency. However, the wide variety of filter products on the market often puts consumers in a dilemma. This article will start with core parameters such as MERV ratings and CADR values to analyze the performance differences of various filters and provide targeted purchase suggestions to help you achieve energy saving and consumption reduction while improving air purification effects.

1. Key selection indicators for air conditioning filters

① MERV rating (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value)

MERV ratings measure the ability of filters to capture particulate matter, ranging from 1 (least efficient) to 20 (most efficient). Common grades and applicable scenarios:

MERV 1-4: Provides basic filtration, capturing only larger particles like dust and pollen. Best for low-pollution environments with minimal air quality concerns.

MERV 5-8: Can filter mold spores and pet dander, suitable for ordinary families.

MERV 9-12: High-efficiency filtration, can capture fine particles (such as PM2.5, smoke), recommended for people with allergies.

MERV 13+: Close to HEPA standard, used in high-standard places such as hospitals and laboratories.

Note: The higher the MERV value, the greater the wind resistance may be. Make sure that the air conditioning system supports it, otherwise the cooling efficiency may be reduced.

② CADR value (Clean Air Delivery Rate)

CADR represents the speed at which the filter purifies the air, and the unit is CFM (cubic feet per minute). The higher the value, the better the purification efficiency. When choosing, you need to match the room area:

• Small room (<200 sq.ft): CADR 100+

• Medium and large rooms (200-400 sq.ft): CADR 200+

③ Filter resistance and energy consumption

High-density filters (such as HEPA) may increase the burden on air conditioning and lead to increased power consumption. When choosing, you need to balance the filtering effect and energy saving needs.

2. Common types and applicable scenarios of air conditioning filters

3. How to Select the Best Air Conditioner Filter for Your Needs?

① Allergy or asthma patients

Recommendation: HEPA or MERV 12+ filter, which can efficiently filter allergens such as pollen and dust mites.

Note: Check whether the air conditioner supports high wind resistance filter to avoid affecting the cooling effect.

② Pet-raising families

Recommendation: Activated carbon + pleated filter combination, adsorb hair, dandruff and odor.

Tips: Clean the filter every month to prevent hair from clogging.

③ New decoration or high-pollution area

Recommendation: activated carbon filter (adsorbs formaldehyde) + high MERV filter (filters PM2.5).

Alternative solution: Use with independent air purifier to enhance the effect.

④ Energy-saving priority users

Recommendation: low resistance filter (MERV 6-8) to reduce air conditioning load and electricity bills.

4. Common purchase misunderstandings

• “The higher the MERV value, the better” → Too high may reduce air volume and increase energy consumption.

• “The more expensive the filter, the better the effect” → Need to match actual needs, such as ordinary families do not need HEPA.

• “No need to change frequently” → Dirty filters will breed bacteria, it is recommended to check every 1-3 months.

5. Conclusion: How to buy the most suitable air conditioning filter?

• Look at the MERV/CADR value: Choose the appropriate filtration level according to your needs.

• Select type: HEPA (high filtration), activated carbon (deodorization), electrostatic (reusable).

• Match the air conditioner model: avoid performance affected by excessive wind resistance.

• Replace regularly: maintain the best filtering effect and extend the life of the air conditioner.

Tip: Check the air conditioner manual or measure the size of the old filter before purchasing to ensure compatibility!