We shouldn’t make an issue of finding the appropriate air filter that you should have at your home; however, with such dissimilar terms such as MERV, MPR, and FPR, it does happen. You have probably heard of FPR, or Filter Performance Rating, in case you have ever bought filters in big box stores such as The Home Depot. This system has been designed to simplify the process of air filter shopping to home owners by converting technical performance data into a simple color-coded rating for homeowners.
Opera realizes what FPR is and how it ranks against other rating programs may allow you to make wiser, more judgmental filter decisions that not only safeguard the air in your home but also your air conditioner.
FPR = Home Depot’s filter rating system.
Higher FPR = stronger filtration (captures smaller, finer particles).
FPR is comparable to MERV and MPR, but easier to understand visually.
Choose FPR 9–10 for allergy or asthma relief; FPR 4–6 for basic dust protection.
Always balance air quality needs with HVAC airflow performance.
Table of Contents
The Filter Performance Rating (FPR) is a proprietary system developed by The Home Depot to measure how effectively an air filter captures dust, allergens, and microscopic particles.
Ratings range from FPR 4 (Good) to FPR 10 (Premium), with higher numbers offering better filtration of fine particles like pet dander, smoke, and bacteria.
FPR considers three key factors:
Particle capture efficiency
Filter lifespan
Airflow impact
In short: FPR helps homeowners compare filters by performance level — no engineering degree required.
The Filter Performance Rating (FPR) system simplifies how consumers choose home air filters. Developed by The Home Depot, it uses a color-coded scale and ratings from 4 to 10 to represent filtration strength and airflow resistance.
FPR 4 (Green): Basic dust and lint protection.
FPR 6 (Blue): Standard protection against dust and pollen.
FPR 8 (Purple): Stronger filtration for households with pets or mild allergies.
FPR 9–10 (Red/Gold): Premium performance for allergy sufferers and high-sensitivity homes.
While MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) and MPR (Microparticle Performance Rating) are widely recognized across brands, FPR simplifies this data into a user-friendly retail scale.
MERV 8 ≈ FPR 6–7 – Standard home filtration.
MERV 11 ≈ FPR 8–9 – Superior allergen control.
MERV 13 ≈ FPR 10 – High-efficiency, hospital-grade performance.
Bottom line: FPR makes filter selection simpler and more visual, especially for homeowners who prefer a quick, side-by-side comparison.
FPR takes the guesswork out of choosing the right filter by considering not just how well a filter traps particles, but also how long it lasts and how it affects system airflow. A higher rating means a denser filter, which captures more contaminants but may reduce airflow if not properly matched to your HVAC system.
FPR 4–6: Great for renters or homes without pets/allergies.
FPR 8–9: Best for families, pet owners, or allergy-prone households.
FPR 10: Ideal for high-sensitivity environments or homeowners who prioritize premium air quality.
Using the right FPR filter means:
Cleaner indoor air with fewer irritants.
Lower energy bills from efficient airflow.
Fewer HVAC repairs due to less dust buildup.
“After years of testing and installing air filters across hundreds of homes, we’ve seen how much confusion rating systems can cause. The Filter Performance Rating (FPR) helps simplify the choice — it focuses on what truly matters: how efficiently a filter captures dust, allergens, and microscopic particles that impact real-world air quality. It’s not just a number on the box — it’s a reflection of comfort, health, and system efficiency working together.”
✅ EPA – Indoor Air Quality Basics
https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq
Learn why filter efficiency directly impacts your home’s air quality.
✅ ASHRAE – Understanding MERV Ratings
https://www.ashrae.org
Technical breakdown of air filter standards and their applications.
✅ EnergyStar – Maintaining HVAC Efficiency
https://www.energystar.gov
Explains how clean filters help save energy and improve airflow.
✅ Filterbuy – Comparing FPR, MERV, and MPR Ratings
https://filterbuy.com/resources/
A practical guide for homeowners to understand rating systems side by side.
✅ Home Depot – Filter Performance Rating Guide
https://www.homedepot.com/
Official overview of how FPR ratings work and what they mean for air quality.
✅ CDC – Air Quality and Health
https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/airpollution/indoor_air.htm
Data on how cleaner air reduces allergy and asthma symptoms.
✅ American Lung Association – Benefits of Clean Air
https://www.lung.org/clean-air/at-home
Highlights how improved filtration promotes better respiratory health.
Indoor Air Pollution Levels
Americans spend 90% of their time indoors.
Indoor air can be 2–5× more polluted than outdoor air.
Source: EPA
High-Efficiency Filtration Benefits
FPR 9–10 filters capture up to 95% of airborne particles.
Includes dust, pet dander, smoke, and allergens.
Source: ASHRAE
Energy Savings and System Efficiency
Replacing dirty filters reduces HVAC energy use by 5–15%.
Clean filters improve airflow and extend system life.
Source: Energy.gov
FPR simplifies filter shopping.
The Filter Performance Rating (FPR) system makes choosing the right home air filter easier by translating complex data into an easy-to-read scale. It’s especially useful for homeowners who want quick, confident decisions without getting lost in technical specs.
Real-world performance matters.
In our experience at Filterbuy, homeowners who understand their FPR ratings choose smarter filters, leading to cleaner air and better HVAC performance. We’ve seen that even small upgrades — like moving from FPR 6 to FPR 9 — make a visible and breathable difference.
Balance is key.
FPR 4–6: Great for light dust and general maintenance.
FPR 8–9: Ideal for families or pet owners.
FPR 10: Perfect for allergy-prone or high-sensitivity homes.
Our Perspective:
After years of testing filters and supporting homeowners, we’ve found that understanding FPR helps prevent both under-filtering and over-spending. The goal isn’t always the “highest number” — it’s the right match for your home’s air quality needs and HVAC system capacity.
Bottom Line:
FPR empowers you to make informed, efficient, and effective choices. When paired with regular replacements, it ensures your home air stays cleaner, fresher, and healthier — every single day.
Check Your HVAC Filter Requirements
Confirm your system’s filter size and airflow capacity.
Look for your current filter’s label to identify the specs.
Select the Right FPR Rating
FPR 4–6: Basic protection against dust.
FPR 8–9: Balanced filtration for families and pets.
FPR 10: Maximum defense for allergies and fine particles.
Replace Regularly
Swap filters every 60–90 days.
Replace sooner in high-use or allergy seasons.
Monitor Airflow and Energy Use
Check vents and air circulation monthly.
Clean filters prevent 5–15% energy waste.
Stay Consistent with Maintenance
Set reminders or subscriptions to avoid forgetting.
Keep your air fresh, efficient, and worry-free year-round.
Q1: What does FPR mean?
FPR = Filter Performance Rating.
It measures a filter’s ability to capture dust, allergens, and particles.
Developed by The Home Depot for easy comparison.
Q2: How is FPR different from MERV or MPR?
FPR is a retail-friendly scale (4–10).
MERV/MPR are industry standards with more technical data.
FPR simplifies the process for homeowners.
Q3: Which FPR should I choose?
FPR 4–6: Basic dust protection.
FPR 8–9: Great for homes with pets or allergies.
FPR 10: Best for maximum air purity and odor control.
Q4: Does a higher FPR mean better air?
Yes, higher FPR filters capture smaller and more particles.
Always balance efficiency with proper airflow.
Q5: How often should I change FPR filters?
Replace every 60–90 days.
Change more often if you have pets, allergies, or heavy system use.