SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS

Asset Classes

Focus Area

Indoor Air Quality and Hazards

Topic

Filtration

Question #

I3.2 – MERV Filter Rating

Question

Are filters with a MERV 13 rating or higher installed on Air-Handling Units (AHUs)?

Applicability

All asset classes
Owner/landlord occupied building
Tenant occupied building – systems managed by the owner/landlord

Answer & Scoring

  • Yes = 4 points
  • No = 0 points
  • Not applicable – Tenant occupied building: No systems managed by the owner/landlord = 0/0

Max of 4 points

Requirements

    1. Provide evidence of the MERV filter rating or equivalent. All filters must be rated as per ASHRAE 52.2
    2. Filters must be replaced at or before the pre-determined pressure drop or timeframe, not exceeding the manufacturer’s specifications and ASHRAE Standard 180 (Maintenance Standard)

Documentation

  • Filter rating (MERV 13 to 16) or equivalent, such as via inventory list, product box, photos
  • Filter replacement schedule

Suggested Lead

In-house

Value

  • Filters are used in air handling systems to trap air contaminants such are dust, pollen, and mold spores. Filters ensure that clean air is provided to indoor spaces
  • Filters have a MERV rating that reflects the filter’s efficacy. The higher the MERV rating the smaller particulates the filter can capture.
  • MERV 13 – 16 filters prevent up to 90% of outdoor air contaminants from entering the HVAC system
  • Install higher rated filters in HVAC systems to improve indoor air quality at their building
  • Before installation ensure the building’s HVAC systems can support higher rated filters

Description

Installation of filtration systems that meet ASHRAE Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) 13 or equivalent prevent larger outdoor air contaminants, such as mold spores, pollen, some dusts, and aerosols from entering the HVAC system. Installation of filtration systems that meet ASHRAE MERV 13 to 16 prevent up to 90% of fine outdoor air contaminants, such as mold spores, pollen, dust, and aerosols from entering the HVAC system.

References

Adapted BB 3.0 Question

Question 03.04.01 – What MERV filters are in use for all outdoor air and return air (i.e. circulating air) systems?