Breathe Easy This Fall: Why MERV 11 and MERV 13 Filters are more important than ever!

Fall is in the air—literally. Leaf mold, temperature swings, and closing windows are just a few of the ways that your indoor air quality can get thoroughly trashed this time of year. If you find yourself sneezing more often or your house is feeling a bit stuffer than usual, your air filter might be due for an upgrade.

Enter: MERV 11 and MERV 13 filters—the dynamic duo of cleaner, healthier indoor air.

So, What's the Story with MERV Ratings?
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, and it's another name for the efficiency at which a filter traps particles. The larger the number, the more it traps. But you don't need to be an HVAC technician to see the difference:

MERV 11: Ideal for everyday homes. Traps dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. In short, it's your best bet for everyday indoor air quality.

MERV 13: Steps it up. It's everything MERV 11 traps, plus smoke, bacteria, and even a few viruses. Ideal if you have asthma, allergies, or desire above-and-beyond filtration near bedrooms or nurseries.

Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Switch
Think of your HVAC system like your home’s lungs. During summer, windows are open, and air circulates more freely. But once the temperatures drop, your home seals up—and that means air (and whatever’s in it) recirculates more often.

Leaves, dust, seasonal pollen, and indoor allergens all ramp up, and if your filter is clogged or outdated, you’re just recycling those irritants.

Changing your air filter now means:

Less sneezing and congestion

Cleaner-smelling air

Better sleep

Break for your HVAC (and save you money)

How to Choose Between MERV 11 and MERV 13
Still not sure? Here's a convenient cheat sheet:        

Pro Tip: Don't Just Replace. Remember.
Life gets busy—we get it. That’s why Filter-Monster’s MERV 11 and MERV 13 filters are designed with bright yellow interiors that act as a visual reminder. Plus, each filter comes with a date sticker so you’ll always know when it’s time to swap it out. No more guessing games.

Final Thoughts
A clean air filter isn’t just a maintenance task—it’s a simple way to improve your daily life. If you’re closing up the windows for fall and getting cozy indoors, don’t forget to prep your air, too.

Your lungs will thank you.