Dual Filter (MERV 8 + MERV 13)

Product Description

A Dual Filter System combining MERV 8 and MERV 13 filters is a multi-stage air filtration solution designed to deliver enhanced indoor air quality and prolonged equipment performance. The system includes a MERV 8 pre-filter to capture coarse particles and a MERV 13 secondary or final filter”often in a mini pleat design”to remove finer particulate matter such as bacteria, smoke, and allergens.

This configuration is widely used in commercial buildings, hospitals, schools, data centers, and industrial HVAC systems, where both energy efficiency and filtration performance are important. The MERV 8 filter protects the MERV 13 filter from premature loading, thereby reducing maintenance frequency and operational costs.

📌 Key Features

• Filter Stages:

  • Stage 1 “ MERV 8 Pre-Filter:
    Captures large particles (3“10 µm) like dust, lint, pollen

  • Stage 2 “ MERV 13 Filter (Mini Pleat Optional):
    Captures fine particles (0.3“1.0 µm) such as bacteria, smoke, and fine dust

• Media:

  • MERV 8: Synthetic or fiberglass pleated media

  • MERV 13: Electrostatic synthetic or glass fiber (often in mini pleat design)

• Frame Options: Galvanized steel, aluminum, or rigid cardboard

• Configuration: Separate filters or integrated filter cassettes

• Benefits:

  • Improved indoor air quality (IAQ)

  • Reduced strain on HVAC systems

  • Extended life of final filters

  • Ideal for LEED and WELL-certified buildings

• Applications:

  • Hospitals & clinics

  • Cleanroom pre-filtration

  • Office buildings & schools

  • Industrial ventilation systems

“ FAQs “ Mini Pleat Filters (in Dual Filter Systems)

1. Why use MERV 8 and MERV 13 together?

Combining these filters creates a two-stage filtration system. MERV 8 captures larger contaminants, extending the life and performance of the MERV 13 filter, which captures finer airborne particles.

2. What role does the mini pleat filter play in this setup?

Mini pleat filters are often used for the MERV 13 stage due to their compact size, high surface area, and low pressure drop. They offer efficient fine particle capture without requiring bulky housing.

3. Can a dual filter system replace a HEPA filter?

Not entirely. MERV 13 filters remove up to 90% of particles down to 1 micron, but HEPA filters (99.97% @ 0.3 microns) are needed for critical environments like cleanrooms. However, MERV 13 is sufficient for most commercial IAQ needs.

4. How often should each stage be replaced?

• MERV 8 Pre-Filter: Every 1“3 months

• MERV 13 Mini Pleat Filter: Every 6“12 months, depending on use and environment

5. Are dual filters energy efficient?

Yes. Using a MERV 8 filter upstream reduces dust loading on the MERV 13, helping maintain a lower pressure drop and more consistent airflow, which leads to energy savings over time.

6. Are MERV 13 filters always mini pleat in design?

Not always, but mini pleat versions are preferred when space constraints or high airflows are factors, especially in retrofit systems or tight air handling units.

7. Can I use a combo filter instead of two separate filters?

Some manufacturers offer integrated dual filters in a single housing for easy installation. These typically have layered media (MERV 8 + MERV 13) in a dual-density configuration