The filter uses mechanical filtration and electrostatically charged Filtrete fibers that act like tiny magnets to attract and capture small particles without restricting air flow, allowing a higher volume of clean air to pass through the filter.

These electrostatic pleated filters attract and trap allergens like dust, lint, mold spores, pet dander, and more. The 3M Filtrete 1000 offers a MERV rating of 11 and MPR of 1,000, so they're perfect for people looking for above average filtration at an affordable cost.

MERV 11 rating Designed with exclusive Filtrete 3-in-1 technology, including an MPR 1085 and MERV 11 rating, your AC filter will help pull and capture countless particles – such as particles such as pet dander, smoke and smog – while letting cleaner air flow through.

Stay away from the 3M Filtrete filters. They are too restrictive for the average system. A media filter is better. More surface area and less restrictive to airflow.

All filters will restrict the air flow to some extent because, in every case, the air has to move through the filter for the unit to be able to remove the particles in the atmosphere. The higher the MERV rating, the denser the filter is going to be, and so the more restricted air flow will become.

MERV 11 furnace filters have a particle arrestance of a little over 90%. In comparison, MERV 13 HVAC filters have a particle arrestance of around 98%. Naturally, it is significantly more efficient. MERV 11 rated air filters are ideal for those who live in a moderately polluted area, have mild allergies, or own a pet.

MERV 13 is the highest MERV value safe for residential furnaces; the higher ratings are used primarily in commercial units. If you are wondering what MERV to try, keep these recommendations in mind; ASHRAE recommends MERV 6 or higher. US Department of Energy recommends MERV 13.

In most cases, a MERV 11 air filter isn't too high for residential use. Generally speaking, anything under a MERV 13 air filter should provide very efficient air purification in a home without impacting airflow.

Is the MERV 11 Air Filter for You? These air filters do not allow particles in the 1.0 to 3.0-micron size range to pass through them. Because they are more efficient, MERV 11 filters are a bit expensive, but they are certainly worth every penny. They filter more than 85% of airborne pollutants.

Stay away from the 3M Filtrete filters. They are too restrictive for the average system. A media filter is better. More surface area and less restrictive to airflow.

CR's take: The Filtrete 1900 Maximum Allergen Reduction filter is impressive at removing dust, pollen, and smoke from the air when the HVAC system is running on its highest fan speed, earning an Excellent rating in that test. But at the lowest speed, the filter is only average at removing those same airborne particles.

Although allergen-blocking AC filters cost a little more and may cause your HVAC system to work harder, they can also save you money in the long run. You won't be paying as much for allergy medication or sleep aids, and your indoor comfort level will improve dramatically.