What is FPR in Air Filters?

by Kevin King January 03, 2025

Air filters are crucial for keeping indoor air clean by catching particles like dust, allergens, and pollutants. The choice can be tricky with different ratings available. FPR air filter ratings simplify this, helping users pick effectively based on filter performance.

Below we’ll go over the specifics of FPR, including its operation and how it compares to other systems like MERV and MPR. If you're upgrading your HVAC system or searching for filters that alleviate allergies, knowing these ratings will guide your choices.

Highlights of What You’ll Learn:

What FPR (Filter Performance Rating) means and how it works.
How FPR compares to MERV and MPR ratings.
Why FPR simplifies the air filter selection process.
How to choose the right air filter based on your home’s needs.
Where to find high-quality air filters for your home.

What is FPR?

FPR is a proprietary system created by The Home Depot. This primary rating system categorizes residential filters based on their ability to trap particles, ranging from dust and pollen to odor-causing particles like smoke and bacteria.

Unlike more technical systems like MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) or MPR (Micro-Particle Performance Rating), FPR uses a simple scale from 4 to 10. Filters rated 4 offer basic filtration against larger particles, while filters rated 10 deliver finer filtration, capturing even the smallest pollutants. This scale ensures that homeowners can easily match filters to their specific air quality needs without extensive technical knowledge.

How FPR Compares to Other Ratings

FPR isn’t the only rating system available, but it stands out for its simplicity. To better understand the differences, here’s a comparison of the different air filter ratings:

Rating System	Full Name	Scale	Focus	Usage
FPR	Filter Performance Rating	4 (Good) to 10 (Premium)	Simplifies consumer choices; measures large and small particle filtration	Proprietary to The Home Depot
MERV	Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value	1 to 16	Measures particle capture efficiency by size; widely recognized in the HVAC system	Industry standard in commercial and residential systems
MPR	Micro-Particle Performance Rating	300 to 2800	Focuses on filtration of smaller airborne particles like allergens and fine dust	Proprietary to 3M filters (e.g., Filtrete)

MERV filters , guided by the MERV rating system, are widely recognized in the HVAC industry and supported by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers.

FPR-rated air filters, on the other hand, are designed for simplicity, while the MPR rating system offers detailed insights into the filter's capacity to remove finer particles.

Choosing the Right Filter for Your Home

Understanding air filter ratings like MERV MPR and FPR can make it easier to select the ideal filter. For homes with pets or high pollen counts, consider a filter rated 9 or 10 on the FPR rating system, as these provide high filtration for allergens and dust mites.

For general use, a rating of 4 or 7 may suffice, offering moderate filtration against dust and lint. Individuals with intense allergies might consider a HEPA filter, known for its superior ability to capture tiny airborne pollutants.

Be sure to assess your home's specific needs, and remember: not all filters are created equal. For premium options, visit Atomic Filters’ furnace filters collection , where you can find filters designed to meet industry acknowledged performance standards.

Why FPR Matters for Cleaner Indoor Air

FPR offers a straightforward way to assess air filters, aiding homeowners in improving their air quality. By grasping the rating system, you can select a filter that optimally suits your home, keeping it fresh and pleasant.

Visit our site to learn more about improving your indoor air quality and finding the best air filters for your home.

FAQ: Common Questions About FPR and Air Filters