I have been shopping for a MERV 11 or 12 or better filter for my air conditioning unit on Amazon, and narrowed it down to two competitive products: 1) 3M Filtrete Micro Allergen Reduction Filters, 20x25x1 1000 MPR, 6-pack, $70.49 2) Nordic Pure 20x25x1 AC Furnace Air Filters MERV 12, Box of 6 (This product), $58.20 In order to compare these products, I collected the following info for myself and for others that read my reviews: MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It is a number from a test method designed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). The number is intended to help people compare filters. Generally speaking, a higher MERV rating indicates better filter performance. Filters with a merv rating of 9 to 12 are used in commercial and industrial applications and will stop particles in the 1 to 3 micron range. These filters are a great choice for home owners who want the best dust control possible. 1000 MPR is equivalent to MERV 11. 1000 MPR Performance Rating captures: 1) Airborne micro particles, including smoke. 2) Airborne allergens, including pollen, pet dander, mold and bacteria. 3) Large particles like dust and lint. MERV 12 is a better rating than 1000 MPR. It captures: 1) Legionella, 2) Humidifier Dust, 3) Smoke, 4) Copier Toner, 5) Rigid Cell Filters, 6) Face Powder, 7) Paint Pigments, 8) Insecticide Dust Pleated Air Filters Are Among The Top Performers In The Heating, Ventilation And Air Conditioning industry. Electrostatic furnace filters are becoming very popular with home owners who want to achieve better air quality in their homes. These air filters are designed to replace any type of panel filter or frame type air filter you currently use in your heating and air conditioning equipment. Nordic Pure manufactures pleated air filters with MERV 12 and MERV 13 ratings which means it is over 97 percent efficient. This is a very high rating for pleated filters. They are able to attain this very high rating by incorporating electrostatic characteristics in the pleated design. Another factor that makes their filters appealing is they don't support the growth of bacteria, fungi or mold and they capture 97.8% of the microscopic airborne dust, pollen, allergens, mold spores, pet dander, bacteria and particulates carrying bacteria and viruses in the air. On top of that, if you compare the prices, this product is a winner. After installation I feel my indoor air is fresher, and air quality is better. Also seemed like the AC unit didn't have to run as long before it stopped. This is to compare my memory of the old and probably semi-clogged filters. I am happy with this product. No regret. I am planning to replace it every 6 months.
