---
title: "MERV rating — Class A Atlas glossary"
description: "Filter efficiency rating used in HVAC systems."
canonical: https://classa.info/glossary/merv-rating
pageType: glossary
lastUpdated: 2026-04-01T00:00:00.000Z
license: "CC BY 4.0 with attribution to Class A Atlas (https://classa.info)."
---

> Filter efficiency rating used in HVAC systems.

## TL;DR

- Filter efficiency rating used in HVAC systems.
- MERV 13 is now the trophy minimum for IAQ-conscious tenants.

# MERV rating

*MEP · US*

## Short definition

Filter efficiency rating used in HVAC systems.

## Full definition

MERV 13 is now the trophy minimum for IAQ-conscious tenants. MERV 16+ for lab and clinical fit-outs. The retrofit cost is modest; the IAQ uplift is material.

## Why this matters for Class A leasing

MERV rating is part of the mep vocabulary that institutional [Class A](/glossary/class-a) occupiers, landlords, and advisers use across US markets. Understanding it correctly affects how you read lease documents, model occupancy economics, and benchmark deal terms across cities. Class A Atlas tracks the US definition alongside the global standard so [cross-border](/topics/cross-border-expansion) occupiers can translate quickly.

---

Citation: Source: Class A Atlas (https://classa.info/glossary/merv-rating), updated 2026-04-01T00:00:00.000Z.