All filters will restrict airflow to some extent because, in all cases, air has to pass through the filter so that the unit can remove particles from the atmosphere. The higher the MERV index, the denser the filter will be and, therefore, the more restricted the air flow will be. The short answer is yes, but it's not really a problem, except in extreme circumstances. Most modern air conditioning systems have no problem operating with higher MERV filters, which is why millions of homeowners depend of them.
The main risk of high-efficiency air filters comes from the fact that they are not modified for long periods of time. If you insist on changing the filters, it's unlikely that you'll experience any problems related to the filters in your air conditioning system. Using an air filter with a MERV rating that is too high is just as bad as using one that is too low. Air filters with higher MERV values can filter more, but the thickness of the filter material can restrict the airflow.
Restricted airflow can reduce comfort, increase energy use, and accelerate wear and tear on HVAC components. In particular, using an air filter with a MERV rating that is too high can damage the compressor, heat exchanger, and air conditioning coil. A higher MERV rating means higher resistance, which means less airflow. When researching air conditioning systems, air flow will increase considerably. This is because it is very important for the performance and longevity of your oven or air controller.
Airflow is also the key to a comfortable home. Since there are many different designs of air conditioning systems, there is no one air filter that fits all. The additional amount may vary depending on the home and air conditioning system, but with modern technology, the increased airflow resistance achieved with a high-efficiency filter is often be marginal. MERV 11 air filters are slightly more expensive than a standard filter, but paying a few more dollars per filter is usually worth the extra efficiency.
There is also the possibility that the more expensive air filter with the highest MERV rating will cost more. While the air filter is designed to control the amount of unwanted air particles that enter your home, your filter's MERV rating aims to show you which filter is best suited for your home. Sometimes, filters in this category are called “rock collectors”, since their function is to ensure that the air conditioning unit does not absorb anything too important and devastating at the very least. A MERV rating of 13 to 16 is considered hospital-level air quality, so it's unlikely your home will need more than that.
I bought the wrong size filter and you guys did your best to get me the right ones. If someone has an allergy or respiratory problem, choose a MERV 11 air filter or even a MERV 13 air filter. Some HVAC technicians prefer these low-efficiency filters because of their low efficiency airflow resistance. MERV 11 air filters can filter a large percentage of fine particles, but a MERV 8 air filter cannot.
Because the MERV rating system is standard, it makes it a little easier to compare filters with different MERV ratings. Second, over time, the filter can become so dirty that the system suffers a pressure drop that can burn the fan motor.
