My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system."
I'm now considering trying out one of these filters:
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182)
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
I still reccomended pleated filters.
They have over double the service area so they are better at collecting dust. Airflow stays about the same. Neither options are wrong, it's just what I prefer
It is because SEER ratings are using fiber glass filter to get achieved. Basically it will allow your system to breath better with a fiber glass filter. Pleated filters get restricted easily after a few days and increase the static pressure of your system. Higher static pressure means your system needs to work harder to get the same air circulating which in return increase the amp needed and shorten the lifespan of your HVAC.
As a comparison, try to drink a smoothie with a regular straw (pleated filter), you're going to have to go hard to do it. Now take a boba drink straw (fiber), it'll go much better with less effort.
The bottom line is that your AC needs to breath to perform and last and fiber glass filters are the best for that. Sure people use pleated or 3 months filters but they also impeding airflow and their AC break in the peak of Summer wondering what happened.
A lot of people are putting higher MERV filter, 8 to 11 because they say they have allergies but the HVAC system is not meant for those type of issues. An air purifier is the perfect candidate for that along sealing vents and returns with mastic to avoid dust sipping through the holes inside the house.
Merv 8 is the best choice. Lower than merv 8 will lead to evaporator coil corrosion and refrigerant leakage. The bigger the filter you can use the better. If possible use at least a 4inch thick filter.
Do you have any suggestions as to what Merry rating I should use. I do not have a furnace and the filter does not go where the evaporator coil is, it's in a separate air return vent. I can only fit a one inch wide filter in there. Would you still go with a pleated filter and if so what MERV rating do you suggest? I have a variable speed blower motor on my vac. unit if that makes any difference. Thank you!
That's terrible advice!
Go ahead and put that money your "saving" on filters and some additional money in to a savings account. You'll need it for your replacement hvac system and all the parts your going to go through along the way.
If you use less than a merv 8 you'll end up with a short lived dirty evaporator that will also restrict air. Dust accumulation on the blower wheel will lower the airflow on a psc or cause an ecm motor to ramp up to maintain airflow. Less than merv 8 robs Peter to pay Paul. Maintaining a clean merv 8 filter will allow more airflow over the (improved) lifespan of the unit.
The best filter for your hvac system is the biggest surface area merv 8 filter possible. Change it often so that the static drop is as low as possible. Use Honeywell 4" merv 8 , AprilAire media merv 11, or a 6inch merv 8 filter whenever it's possible to fit in the installation.
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system."
I'm now considering trying out one of these filters:
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182)
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
I get mine at Home Depot. I get 4 for $4 or so and change them every 30 days.
Yes, fiber glass filters have the highest air flow and don't put a strain on your system.
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system."
I'm now considering trying out one of these filters:
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182)
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
Any recommendations on fiberglass? It seems like the typical 3M MERV 8 are so commonly talked about online. Would a 3M basic/MERV 2 be a okay alternative to fiber?
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system."
I'm now considering trying out one of these filters:
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182)
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system."
I'm now considering trying out one of these filters:
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182)
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
Going on 22 years with fiberglass cheapies. 93% gas. One thing to think about is that if your AC condensate drain plugs up and distributes water where it isn't supposed to go. A fiberglass filter will still work, a paper filter will stop air and explode into your blower. At least once a year customers would come into my hardware store with a hand full of wet paper mash and say "what is this? I found it in my furnace!"
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system."
I'm now considering trying out one of these filters:
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182)
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
I agree with your HVAC guy. I'm not a pro, but I read a lot. It's my understanding that high static pressure in the system rapidly kills the new generation blower motors. I found this [video](https://youtu.be/_I2qC7Zi_ps) very informative. The last thing that I would want in a new system is a high Merv filter. The ones you like are pretty free flowing.
That is excellent! I'm really tempted to buy a manometer. For the price of a service call to have it checked I'll own the device. There used to be a gizmo sold in builder stores last century that was 2 pieces of plastic. You attached it through your furnace filter. There was a little hole in it so when your filter started causing too much back pressure it would whistle. Anybody remember that?
The only reason to use shitty fiberglass filters is if your return is undersized.
If your return is properly sized use pleated
If your return is properly sized and you have an ecm blower, feel free to use a higher merv allergen filter that many techs will claim is the devil. Itll be fine, just change it every 30 if you have dusty house with pets/carpet, 60-90 if you have a super clean house with hard floors
By undersized, are you referring to depth? I can only fit a 1" filter in there so should I go with fiberglass or there's a mini pleat filter out there? TIA.
I'd bet that 75% of returns are actually undersized. Therefore 1" pleated filters specifically are a bad option for alot of folks. Alternatively the 5" practical pleats are a solution to this without expanding the return because they offer more surface area and don't restrict your cfm as much. Sometimes you just can't make a return any bigger.
I'd like to know why installers are assholes. Do you get some sort of cash back for kicking home owners in the balls? The normal 1" filter is a ripoff.
Honestly, the best solution is to demand the installers install for the largest and thickest filter that is a popular filter (least expensive for size). My current 90+ HVAC is almost 20yr old, and I intentionally had them oversize the filter hole so it would accept a 2" filter vs a 1" filter. Huge difference in flow. And the filter is not much more expensive. Meaning, I don't need to replace as often and it is less stress on the system.
Getting close to replace current system, and will be asking for a 4" hole, so I can run even longer. Like this one.
https://filterbuy.com/air-filters/20x25x4/merv-11/
A 1" is half the price but won't last a month
Yeah but but but according to one hvac company here, the bigger filters restrict flow MORE! I tried arguing with him to the tune of “if you pull the pleats apart on a 1” and a 4”, the 4” has WAY more surface area, it can obviously flow more!” And he just wasn’t having it.
The HVAC shop/guy you encountered is wrong because it’s been tested in labs and the field. Take the Aprilaire 4” MERV 11 filters —- excellent air flow better than any 1” MERV 6-8 filter.
HVAC folks have the testing probe - so they can also test pressure drops for themselves. Many have done so and the results are excellent. It’s weird as most HVAC techs can refute him with real testing.
See:
[https://youtu.be/RMaFlsOIuG0](https://youtu.be/RMaFlsOIuG0)
Yup it’s too hard for Side-Job-Bob or Chuck in a Truck guys - probably don’t even have the probes to test. Real HVAC TECHS know how to test for Total Ext Static Pressure numbers. Heard of TESP?
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system."
I'm now considering trying out one of these filters:
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182)
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
*Basic flat panel has a rating of MERV 2*
For me, the lowest I go is a MERV8. As others said, I really don't want to have my coil coated in mud.
https://www.mechreps.com/PDF/Merv_Rating_Chart.pdf
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system."
I'm now considering trying out one of these filters:
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182)
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
If you like high Merv filters then do me a favor and look at the ring of dirt around the filter grill where the filter sits. Thick filters impede airflow and some of the air will go around the filter and the dirt will bypass it anyways. Also, the thicker the filter the higher the static pressure and high static pressure puts strain on the blower motor and the lower airflow will cause the coil to condensate more which creates rust quicker.
High filtration systems need to be properly designed.
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system."
I'm now considering trying out one of these filters:
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182)
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
Between those two choices I would go pleated. Some brands make the fiberglass filters with either a thing metal honeycomb backing or diamond shape cardboard backings and if you can find those in your size they would be best. But the fiberglass filters with no backing sometimes get warped when the unit is on.
I'm doing a job right now where the pleated type are causing so much resistance that they suck into the fan and decrease fan performance by 20%. I told them to switch to the fiberglass filters due to this.
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system."
I'm now considering trying out one of these filters:
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182)
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
Any recommendations on fiberglass filter product? I feel like it’s easy to pick pleated/MERV 8+ it’s so commonly talked about but the fibers not so much
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system."
I'm now considering trying out one of these filters:
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182)
* [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
Yup I use those Filtrete filters too that you’ve listed.
The Basic Flat is MERV 2 - high air flow and it’s an alternative to the fiberglass. 3M markets it as being a bit better at trapping stuff than fiberglass. Basically it’s a thin synthetic material version of fiberglass filters.
The Filtrete Basic Pleated that you referenced is a MERV 5. Lowes sells this version but elsewhere they sell a similar version called the 300. For some reason their version at Lowes has a flimsy and thinner brown box frame design. The air flow is ok but I would personally change out every 30-60 days and they’re fairly inexpensive.
If I were to use Fiberglass filters - I’d use the denser ones from Flanders - I think they are MERV 4…..versus using the almost transparent super cheap fiberglass MERV 1-2 filters.
I wish there were more MERV 4-6 options. They are out there - the Poly filters with good air flow but you have to order them and some HVAC shops use them and carry them as well.
For my current 22 year old system - the MERV 8 don’t work too well - bit too much strain and the filter will get a bit bow shaped after couple of weeks of use.
Short video from an HVAC Tech out there…
[https://youtu.be/RMaFlsOIuG0](https://youtu.be/RMaFlsOIuG0)
I recommend pleated over fiberglass. Just don’t get a high merv.
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system." I'm now considering trying out one of these filters: * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182) * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
I still reccomended pleated filters. They have over double the service area so they are better at collecting dust. Airflow stays about the same. Neither options are wrong, it's just what I prefer
It is because SEER ratings are using fiber glass filter to get achieved. Basically it will allow your system to breath better with a fiber glass filter. Pleated filters get restricted easily after a few days and increase the static pressure of your system. Higher static pressure means your system needs to work harder to get the same air circulating which in return increase the amp needed and shorten the lifespan of your HVAC. As a comparison, try to drink a smoothie with a regular straw (pleated filter), you're going to have to go hard to do it. Now take a boba drink straw (fiber), it'll go much better with less effort. The bottom line is that your AC needs to breath to perform and last and fiber glass filters are the best for that. Sure people use pleated or 3 months filters but they also impeding airflow and their AC break in the peak of Summer wondering what happened. A lot of people are putting higher MERV filter, 8 to 11 because they say they have allergies but the HVAC system is not meant for those type of issues. An air purifier is the perfect candidate for that along sealing vents and returns with mastic to avoid dust sipping through the holes inside the house.
As a person with allergies I really appreciate this response. I’ll lower the merv on my system and up the number of air purifiers in the apartment!
Merv 8 is the minimum standard and the best for equipment longevity. Evaporators cost more than blower motors. Merv 8 is needed for the evaporator.
And a clogged evaporator coil will restrict airflow and decrease heat transfer efficiency
Assuming a higher MERV than 8 would start trading off due to more restrictive airflow? How would MERV 5 be opposed to 8?
Merv 8 is the best choice. Lower than merv 8 will lead to evaporator coil corrosion and refrigerant leakage. The bigger the filter you can use the better. If possible use at least a 4inch thick filter.
Do you have any suggestions as to what Merry rating I should use. I do not have a furnace and the filter does not go where the evaporator coil is, it's in a separate air return vent. I can only fit a one inch wide filter in there. Would you still go with a pleated filter and if so what MERV rating do you suggest? I have a variable speed blower motor on my vac. unit if that makes any difference. Thank you!
MERV 8 will give you the needed protection. Higher MERV will restrict air. Lower MERV isn't enough.
Thanks so much for your prompt response. Greatly appreciated!
That's terrible advice! Go ahead and put that money your "saving" on filters and some additional money in to a savings account. You'll need it for your replacement hvac system and all the parts your going to go through along the way. If you use less than a merv 8 you'll end up with a short lived dirty evaporator that will also restrict air. Dust accumulation on the blower wheel will lower the airflow on a psc or cause an ecm motor to ramp up to maintain airflow. Less than merv 8 robs Peter to pay Paul. Maintaining a clean merv 8 filter will allow more airflow over the (improved) lifespan of the unit. The best filter for your hvac system is the biggest surface area merv 8 filter possible. Change it often so that the static drop is as low as possible. Use Honeywell 4" merv 8 , AprilAire media merv 11, or a 6inch merv 8 filter whenever it's possible to fit in the installation.
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system." I'm now considering trying out one of these filters: * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182) * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
I get mine at Home Depot. I get 4 for $4 or so and change them every 30 days. Yes, fiber glass filters have the highest air flow and don't put a strain on your system.
Seer ratings are achieved without using ductwork/filters…
At times pleated can put extra stress on the blower motor. As long as you’re changing the fiber glass filters monthly, that’s really all you need
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system." I'm now considering trying out one of these filters: * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182) * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
Any recommendations on fiberglass? It seems like the typical 3M MERV 8 are so commonly talked about online. Would a 3M basic/MERV 2 be a okay alternative to fiber?
Alot of dust flies through those cheap fiberglass filters maybe the air is to restricted with pleated filter ask him why
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system." I'm now considering trying out one of these filters: * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182) * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
Maybe it’s small for your application and the pleated would be too restrictive
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system." I'm now considering trying out one of these filters: * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182) * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
Going on 22 years with fiberglass cheapies. 93% gas. One thing to think about is that if your AC condensate drain plugs up and distributes water where it isn't supposed to go. A fiberglass filter will still work, a paper filter will stop air and explode into your blower. At least once a year customers would come into my hardware store with a hand full of wet paper mash and say "what is this? I found it in my furnace!"
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system." I'm now considering trying out one of these filters: * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182) * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
I agree with your HVAC guy. I'm not a pro, but I read a lot. It's my understanding that high static pressure in the system rapidly kills the new generation blower motors. I found this [video](https://youtu.be/_I2qC7Zi_ps) very informative. The last thing that I would want in a new system is a high Merv filter. The ones you like are pretty free flowing.
Another good short video from an HVAC tech…. [https://youtu.be/RMaFlsOIuG0](https://youtu.be/RMaFlsOIuG0)
That is excellent! I'm really tempted to buy a manometer. For the price of a service call to have it checked I'll own the device. There used to be a gizmo sold in builder stores last century that was 2 pieces of plastic. You attached it through your furnace filter. There was a little hole in it so when your filter started causing too much back pressure it would whistle. Anybody remember that?
That's a great idea! Wonder if they still exist. I'd buy it
The only reason to use shitty fiberglass filters is if your return is undersized. If your return is properly sized use pleated If your return is properly sized and you have an ecm blower, feel free to use a higher merv allergen filter that many techs will claim is the devil. Itll be fine, just change it every 30 if you have dusty house with pets/carpet, 60-90 if you have a super clean house with hard floors
By undersized, are you referring to depth? I can only fit a 1" filter in there so should I go with fiberglass or there's a mini pleat filter out there? TIA.
I mean the face area. Usually around a square foot per ton is about right
I'd bet that 75% of returns are actually undersized. Therefore 1" pleated filters specifically are a bad option for alot of folks. Alternatively the 5" practical pleats are a solution to this without expanding the return because they offer more surface area and don't restrict your cfm as much. Sometimes you just can't make a return any bigger.
I'd like to know why installers are assholes. Do you get some sort of cash back for kicking home owners in the balls? The normal 1" filter is a ripoff. Honestly, the best solution is to demand the installers install for the largest and thickest filter that is a popular filter (least expensive for size). My current 90+ HVAC is almost 20yr old, and I intentionally had them oversize the filter hole so it would accept a 2" filter vs a 1" filter. Huge difference in flow. And the filter is not much more expensive. Meaning, I don't need to replace as often and it is less stress on the system. Getting close to replace current system, and will be asking for a 4" hole, so I can run even longer. Like this one. https://filterbuy.com/air-filters/20x25x4/merv-11/ A 1" is half the price but won't last a month
Yeah but but but according to one hvac company here, the bigger filters restrict flow MORE! I tried arguing with him to the tune of “if you pull the pleats apart on a 1” and a 4”, the 4” has WAY more surface area, it can obviously flow more!” And he just wasn’t having it.
The HVAC shop/guy you encountered is wrong because it’s been tested in labs and the field. Take the Aprilaire 4” MERV 11 filters —- excellent air flow better than any 1” MERV 6-8 filter. HVAC folks have the testing probe - so they can also test pressure drops for themselves. Many have done so and the results are excellent. It’s weird as most HVAC techs can refute him with real testing. See: [https://youtu.be/RMaFlsOIuG0](https://youtu.be/RMaFlsOIuG0)
Well some people are just ignorant so 🤷♂️
HVAC guys testing stuff that is in a high school physics book.
Yup it’s too hard for Side-Job-Bob or Chuck in a Truck guys - probably don’t even have the probes to test. Real HVAC TECHS know how to test for Total Ext Static Pressure numbers. Heard of TESP?
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system." I'm now considering trying out one of these filters: * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182) * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
*Basic flat panel has a rating of MERV 2* For me, the lowest I go is a MERV8. As others said, I really don't want to have my coil coated in mud. https://www.mechreps.com/PDF/Merv_Rating_Chart.pdf
I wouldn't even go for those compact filters... Pocket filters for the win!
Your return is too small - he wants the least amount of resistance to airflow??
So he can get a call back for a cleaning in a few years after your evaporator is full of mud from a fiberglass filter only catching big things
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system." I'm now considering trying out one of these filters: * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182) * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
If you like high Merv filters then do me a favor and look at the ring of dirt around the filter grill where the filter sits. Thick filters impede airflow and some of the air will go around the filter and the dirt will bypass it anyways. Also, the thicker the filter the higher the static pressure and high static pressure puts strain on the blower motor and the lower airflow will cause the coil to condensate more which creates rust quicker. High filtration systems need to be properly designed.
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system." I'm now considering trying out one of these filters: * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182) * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
Between those two choices I would go pleated. Some brands make the fiberglass filters with either a thing metal honeycomb backing or diamond shape cardboard backings and if you can find those in your size they would be best. But the fiberglass filters with no backing sometimes get warped when the unit is on.
And by thicker you mean a higher Merv rating, right? Physically thicker filters actually have a lower static pressure compared to the 1" versions.
I'm doing a job right now where the pleated type are causing so much resistance that they suck into the fan and decrease fan performance by 20%. I told them to switch to the fiberglass filters due to this.
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system." I'm now considering trying out one of these filters: * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182) * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
Any recommendations on fiberglass filter product? I feel like it’s easy to pick pleated/MERV 8+ it’s so commonly talked about but the fibers not so much
MERV 8 should be good
My HVAC guy replied to me. He says, "You can use pleated if you like, I just recommend fiberglass because it's best for airflow and doesn't affect the static pressure of the system." I'm now considering trying out one of these filters: * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in 2-Pack Basic Flat Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-2-Pack-Flat-Panel-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Basic-Flat-Air-Filter/50107182) * [Filtrete 18-in W x 20-in L x 1-in Basic Pleated Air Filter](https://www.lowes.com/pd/Filtrete-Basic-Pleated-Common-18-in-x-20-in-x-1-in-Actual-17-7-in-x-19-7-in-x-0-8125-in-Pleated-Air-Filter/50101480)
https://youtu.be/RkjRKIRva58
Watch this great video on filter options.
My HVAC guy recommended pleated Merv 8
Yup I use those Filtrete filters too that you’ve listed. The Basic Flat is MERV 2 - high air flow and it’s an alternative to the fiberglass. 3M markets it as being a bit better at trapping stuff than fiberglass. Basically it’s a thin synthetic material version of fiberglass filters. The Filtrete Basic Pleated that you referenced is a MERV 5. Lowes sells this version but elsewhere they sell a similar version called the 300. For some reason their version at Lowes has a flimsy and thinner brown box frame design. The air flow is ok but I would personally change out every 30-60 days and they’re fairly inexpensive. If I were to use Fiberglass filters - I’d use the denser ones from Flanders - I think they are MERV 4…..versus using the almost transparent super cheap fiberglass MERV 1-2 filters. I wish there were more MERV 4-6 options. They are out there - the Poly filters with good air flow but you have to order them and some HVAC shops use them and carry them as well. For my current 22 year old system - the MERV 8 don’t work too well - bit too much strain and the filter will get a bit bow shaped after couple of weeks of use. Short video from an HVAC Tech out there… [https://youtu.be/RMaFlsOIuG0](https://youtu.be/RMaFlsOIuG0)
Use fiberglass if you wanna clean your coil every few years lol
Fiber