5 Furnace Filter Mistakes That Will Cost You Money!

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Cheap Fiberglass Furnace Filters(Various Sizes): amzlink.to/az0UNUP85cWSd
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Merv 13 Furnace Filters(16x25x1): amzlink.to/az0ibsKpzrHch
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[@bm3830]

Love the bloopers at the end! LOL.

[@seen48]

I do it when it’s not running.

[@JorgeGonzalez-yt8sy]

you want to make sure the arrows on the furnace are pointing towards.. the furnace.. xD

[@Rafa-ln9bz]

First KZbin video I've seen with bloopers at the end... LOL

[@wiggwam1]

I change my filter every 30 days in winter. In the summer they don't get dirty as quick running air conditioner. I just turn my thermostat down and wait until unit shuts off and in a couple of minutes i change out the filter. I've never shut the main power off to do it

[@smerchly]

We live at a high traffic street and the usual SW winds blow road dust at the house so the filter gets dirty more often than in the winter when using the AC . We have had two very mild winters so the furnace runs less and no need to change the filter as much . I use both MV6 and the 'angel hair' .

[@TheReflectivePerspective]

A few tips in case they may help someone: 1) If you have an awkward slide in style like that that makes it difficult to retrieve the filter, you can add a "courtesy pull tab" with a folded loop of tape (such as duct, smooshed together at the open portion) on one end of the cardboard to grab it, 2) write the date you installed it on the cardboard in case you forget when you last changed it and to help track how frequently you need to replace, 3) the frequency to change may need to be adjusted, eg 1 month during heavy use seasons/ 3 months during light use seasons.

[@TheFunnyCarpenter]

Excellent tips

[@TheReflectivePerspective]

@@TheFunnyCarpenter Thank you kindly!

[@crabwalk7773]

I was coming to say the same. Great (or lazy? efficient?) minds think alike!

[@TheReflectivePerspective]

@crabwalk7773 I like to think efficient and diligent with a hearty respect for using preventative measures as part of frugality! Also, I don't think any of us need any more hassles in our lives. I can say from experience that neither a dead furnace on the coldest day of the year nor a rusted out air handler in 90°+ are any fun. The salty air along the coast is not kind to these helpful friends!

[@renymullen4582]

YES!!! I Just wrote the same above. I have done this for years! :D

[@chuckhoyle1211]

Mistake #6 Forgetting to use the cheap filter in the summer and your AC coils freeze over forming a block of ice in the duct. Seriously. I was told by the HVAC guy that the good filters restrict air flow too much so that condensation was forming on my AC coils in the duct and were freezing over. I am supposed to use the cheap filters in the summer to avoid this. That is what I do and I have never had an issue since.

[@jovicrazed]

Hmmm, I have never turned the power off to change the filter.

[@vinceferraccioli4661]

Ya, I just lower the temp.😊

[@agcons]

I just wait for the furnace to quit then swap it out.

[@TheFunnyCarpenter]

Ya the most important thing is for the fan to be off.

[@freakerss]

Nah just rip the old one out and ram in the new one. Takes less than 5 seconds

[@STV-H4H]

The temp and blower turned down then off is good news to me. I did not know about the turn temp down thing. That’s solid advice. Makes sense

[@mpasaa]

that's why 20 years ago I bought electrostatic washable filters for my furnace plus the two air handler locations as we have a two zone system. I use hose to wash them twice per year and they've worked perfectly and I haven't had any problems or bought new filters since.

[@davegedeon3767]

I have a washable filter that I have had for 15 years. Best filter that I have ever owned. It gets washed once every month. No wonder you can’t buy this filter anymore. It lasts forever! Great video. Thanks.

[@scoutmaster33]

Had mine for 18 years and it works great….Cost me an extra $50 when they installed the furnace but the math says I’m waaaaaaaaay ahead on that added expense.

[@davegedeon3767]

You can say that again scoutmaster33. I think my filter was about $25.00. How much money have I saved over 15 years and counting. Also, with a washed and clean filter, my furnace has been going strong for 30 years. I really do believe that your furnace does not have to work as hard with a clean filter.

[@TroyQwert]

Same here. Just do one thing: disassemble your washable filter from time to time and wash every layer separately. Just remember to assemble it tge way it was before. 😊

[@srobeck77]

Washable is never as good as a pleated filter. Its kinda like using a fish net to june bugs. more dust build inside the furnace (on the fan and the ac coil) and add more layers of dust on all your furniture in the house.

[@ebenezerservices6363]

Carrier Air handler still comes with a washable filter that last a long time....

[@n2omike]

There are detailed filter tests on the internet that test restriction. The high MERV filters have MANY more pleats (surface area) than the lower ones, and actually flow better. These were measured by testing pressure before and after the filter. Watch the Project Farm video on furnace filters.

[@hscottkarpf3081]

Says the filter salesman 😂

[@n2omike]

@@hscottkarpf3081 Not a filter salesman. Look up Project Farm Filter Test on KZbin and see for yourself.

[@dieterhauer8619]

​@@n2omike Project Farm does awesome & highly detailed reviews!

[@macfady2181]

​@@n2omikeI like project farm, and while I agree a higher MERV filter has more surface area in regards to filtering, the increase surface area doesn't allow more airflow in terms of volume, the hole is the same size. My furnace is only a year old and specifically states not to use pleated filters.

[@n2omike]

@@macfady2181 The high MERV filters has more than twice as many pleats. That means, if you stretch the filter media out, there's twice as much of it. It may have smaller holes, but there are a LOT more of them. With smaller holes, they can be a lot closer to each other. Plus, with twice as much filter paper, there's room for a LOT more holes. The extra pleats is how the high MERV units outflow the lower MERV choices. The Project Farm video explains things, and shows the evidence.

[@chrisgraham2904]

For many years, I used a 20"x25"X4" high end filter for our oil fired furnace. Two years ago, we finally converted to natural gas and installed an ultra high efficiency gas furnace with a variable speed, commutated D.C. motor. Oil furnace motor was replaced 8 years ago for $124 dollars. The gas furnace motor replacement is currently listed at $960 dollars. The technician stated that air restrictions were the biggest killer of these very expensive motors and recommended a change to a basic fiberglass 1 inch thick filter and more frequent filter changes. The 1 inch filter is changed every 2 months during winter and every 3 months during summer. Air flow and distribution has been improved and the 1 inch $8 dollar filters seem to grab more dust that the $65 dollar 4 inch filter ever did. A new gas furnace is never going to enjoy the lifespan of an older oil fired furnace, so it's important to maximize it's lifespan however possible.

[@gobbletegook]

When I had the 1 inch filters on my old furnace, I used to put a loop on the top with duct tape to create a little handle like one of yours had on the video. Made it so much easier.

[@brentscott5130]

Thirty five years in the trade and you are the only other furnace tech that recommends the cheapest angel hair filter that I constantly had to tell my techs , customers and apprentices to use. Pleated filters are a cash grab and a major cause of failures in the high efficiency equipment. Bravo

[@bricefleckenstein9666]

For me, the higher end filters are a MUST - but I'm not running them in my furnace, they're pulling in outside air and I need to get the smoke out or I CAN'T BREATHE. Not a normal situation though.

[@ivanbejar5]

I would say the filters are not a cash grab and angel hair filters are from an old school of thinking. Proper filtration is need but also proper air flow. Home owners need to be educated on air flow and not to use the cheapest filter. If someone recommends using a cheap filter for airflow they are missing the real problem. One thing I will add is yes the most expensive filters are a waste and mid filter is better and simply just need to be changed every month or earlier if need be.

[@user-yl1ko7sg6t]

Those fibre glass ones are pure useless garbage

[@handlesaredumb1]

​@ivanbejar5 He has 35yrs experience and I have 6yrs and currently am a tech, I agree with him. What experience is your comment coming from?

[@steven.events]

Thanks for the temperature lowering tip. Will do.

[@patmash]

Years ago my HVAC guy told me to only use the cheaper filters due to the same reasons stated in this video. I guess he was right! Thank you so much guys for these tips (And saving me $$ lol).

[@cliffm8112]

Only use heavy duty filter for pet and dander. I use the cheap ones and change out often

[@jamesphillips2285]

@@cliffm8112 Also smoke and viruses.

[@desireelococo1747]

Awesome video. So informative. Im a single lady running two houses by myslf. I SO needed this!!!!!

[@coolacadien]

🚨 I’ve cleaned over 15,000 furnaces. Trust me NEVER buy a cheap fibre glass filter that you can see through. All the majority of the dust will go right through and plug up your furnace secondary heat exchanger and your air conditioner coil on top of the furnace. Thats exactly what hvac contractor wants to make money. Your furnace will over heat and instead of lasting 20 years, your heat exchanger will crack sooner. Contractors hope they will double their profit by selling you 2 furnaces in a 20 year period.

[@toybarons]

Ages ago when we moved into our home we tried one of those high end filters on what was then our home original furnace. It literally cause our old furnace to shut down. It over heated. When we had our newer 2 stage furnace put in 10 years ago, we were told to just use a regular 1" filter. We do have birds as pets that cause dust. I just wait for my furnace to stop, then pop out the filter and vacuum it on a regular bases. No worries.

[@kerrygibbs8198]

A refreshing video. Gave good information and facts. I appreciate it being concise and not dragged out!!

[@user-ux1zr4ue7e]

I got this video because i sent my landlord a text asking for a filter....i hate being spied on!

[@andrewgeorgelang]

Excellent video. Thanks for sharing this. Greetings from Ontario 😊

[@SgtMjr]

The best thing you can do is have a 4" filter track. The 4" MERV 8 filters will do a much better job. More surface area, increased dust holding capacity ( if you want to know if your filter is near the end of it's usefulness look on the back side and see if there is any dust bleed thru, if not it's still working, if it's discolored time to change it, don't go on what the up-stream side looks like, a good quality high capacity filter will look pretty horrendous before it has reached it's dust holding capacity) and consequently longer life, probably a year. Don't use the ultra cheap fiberglass filters, they are crap, we used to say they are good for dead birds and golf balls. MERV 11,12,13 pleated filters only get a high MERV rating because they are statically charged, once the charge dissipates after the filter is loaded with some dust it's no better than a MERV 8 and probably not even that good. Stick with a good quality MERV 8 and save your $. There is nothing stopping a filter mfg labeling their product with whatever MERV rating they want, it's the wild west when it comes to regulation, HEPA gets thrown around willy nilly too and it's all BS. Stick with the top brands in industrial filtration, I'd recommend Camfil.

[@shopart1488]

This guy knows what he’s talking about especially regarding the filters. Spot on!!!

[@n2omike]

Not really. The high MERV filters actually flow better than the low ones due to having far more pleats (surface area). It's been tested numerous times using pressure differential before and after the filter. Look up filter tests on KZbin. Project Farm has a great video on Furnace Filters.

[@rstjohnw]

@@n2omike No, you're wrong. I don't care what your "tests" say.

[@Kate-cz2sv]

Our furnace person said go with Merv 7 & check them monthly

[@gadgethunter5732]

@@n2omike Test it yourself and let us know what you learn. Lots of channels to walk you through it. I do it every furnace install. Fiberglass filters always result in lowest external total static pressure across the furnace. Most furnaces are approved for only 0.5" total. That's return restriction PLUS supply restrictions. A lot of pleated filters tell you their static pressure drops approach .3 or .4" across ONLY the filter, when it's clean. Add the rest of the return, then supply system restriction to that and the furnace is now running over the 1/2" rating. Replacing ECM motor modules out of warranty can be pricey.

[@n2omike]

@@gadgethunter5732 Watch the video. I've had best luck with the drastically increased surface area of filters with a lot of pleats. A fine filter that is twice as big has more room to hold contaminants before it gets restrictive. It's why the 2" and 4" thick filters work so well. Watch the video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJzNg35_h9uUa5o

[@philipstaite4775]

Great info. In my case changing the filters (we have two) is *easier* when the system is running. Our HVAC system is in the attic (1 story home) and has two returns - both located in the ceiling. The access covers swing down and the filters fall out. To replace them you have to align them just right as you close the cover. That is, unless the system is running. Then it holds them in place and you can pull the old one out easily, and it will hold the new one exactly in place while you close the cover. I use FilterEasy subscription service - they send me filters on schedule. I had to check - I'm getting MERV 8s now. There is some dust in the house, but we have a dog, and construction going on in the area so that's to be expected.

[@commonsense5105]

I have been around this industry for decades. If you have a 1" filter, the biggest problem at 1", is if you use anything that really does a good job at trying to clean the air, even a pleated filter, it can be enough to restrict the air too much. The end result is the equivalent of a dirty filter, too much restriction. When air flow is restricted, not enough heat is picked up in the air across the heat exchanger, which means more heat is exhausted outside and less heat goes into the house/building. A similar thing applies to cooling. That means the furnace or AC runs longer to keep the thermostat satisfied. This also can cause the heat exchanger to get hotter than designed or the head pressure on the AC compressor to get too high, leading to an unsafe condition where the heat exchanger can crack, leaking exhaust inside, or compressor failure. The ideal solution would be to replace the 1" filter housing with a 4" filter housing, but in many cases, may be cost prohibitive. If your stuck with a 1" filter, even a 1" pleated merv 8 filter will cause some restriction on your system over a 1" fiberglass filter. However, for a 1" filter, its not advisable to exceed a merv 8 filter rating. And unfortunately, fiberglass filters do a very poor job at removing particulate from the air, but are better than a dirty filter or nothing. One thing you can do to help a fiberglass filter do its job better is spray "End Dust" on it, normally used on furniture for dusting, to help catch more particulate on the filter. And since there is not much filter media in a 1" filter, its wise to change the filter often, sometimes even when it looks clean, as it can still restrict airflow and do a much better job at cleaning the air when using a new filter. A monthly 1" filter change is not too often if your interested in maintaining better air quality. And as recommended by another person making a comment here, Project Farm's evaluations on most anything are first rate, including his review on air filters, and worth the time to watch. One last thing, if your furnace filter is similar to the setup shown in this video, look at the opening on the side of the filter closest to the furnace when the air handler is running, (for heating or cooling). See that there are no gaps between the filter and the ductwork on this side where air could be drawn in from the room after the filter. If there are gaps, unfiltered air goes through these gaps into the furnace and A coil of the air conditioner, which over time clogs things up and creates serious problems. Consider using a removable tape, like blue or green painters tape, to seal the area between the filter and the ductwork off, to prevent this unfiltered air from entering the unit. Most people don't realize that these filters weren't installed originally to improve indoor air quality, it was to help keep the furnace and AC clean, to maintain its peak efficiency.

[@mcbeezee2120]

I've used those higher merv filters since 2002 in the same HVAC system, and have never had to replace ANY components or parts, except for an AC capacitor. I DO change the filter monthly, but purchasing them on sale at Costco, comes out to about $9 a filter, and I'm ok with that, especially when it results in more highly-filtered air in my house.

[@ronh9384]

Good information. Thanks. My furnace uses a 4 inch filter. I use a piece of duct tape folded over at the top and bottom of the filter as handles to aid in removal.

[@craigk965]

That 4 inch filter should last 1 yr,..

[@1227Masher]

If putting in a MERV 13 filter causes restrictions - then more than likely you have insufficient returns. I have ceiling mounted filter grills for my 5-ton HVAC system and I have four dedicated returns with total grill area of 1,500 square inches. That keeps them quiet and effective. Lowers the speed of the air going through the filter. I also use 3” pleated filters in all my ceiling mounted filter grills. After 15 years - my inside coil looks shiny and new - and I have never had to have it cleaned.

[@nedcramdon1306]

Changed every month that set up would cost me over 2000 bucks a year.

[@1227Masher]

I get about four months out of my filter set up. Also - I buy them online from supplywarehouse. Cheaper than doing filters from Home Depot.

[@craigk965]

3 inch filters merv 8 should last you a full year... especially since they are in the ceiling.. they don't collect dust unless the air is circulating.. dust and dirt don't fall up.. you are shuffling the dust around with your feet.

[@handlesaredumb1]

Being in the ceiling where it's harder for large debris to reach is the biggest advantage of your set up. Floor returns are the worst.

[@1227Masher]

@@nedcramdon1306 I purchase them online for about $300/year. I get six months out of them at a time. Far cheaper than the old 1” pleated filters than maybe lasted two months.

[@naranjolovo6292]

Excellent information. In my case I'm always confused. Now I'm sure how i have to do it

[@lebaroncars]

Great video see you are showing my exact furnace , one thing I learned is a furnace is not designed to be an air purifier unit using high merv rated filters , they only make the blower motor work harder and shorten life . I use pleated filters but no higher than merv 4 used , wish they had a lower rated merv pleated filter , like a merv 2 . Less air restricton .

[@j.morrison73]

Fantastic tips. Man was I making these mistakes arrow wrong way & 'top of the line' allergy filters. My direction error was because our furnace installer actually placed it wrong at time of install. I did as you suggested on my very first change, marking the direction. I'll scratch that out & relabel right after I hit 'comment' Thanks

[@philipruhland2624]

I love the bloopers at the end of the video:). The video was very informative and it's full of great and very useful tips and information. Keep up the great work. Please will you do a video on how to fix your furnace when it makes a loud thump or bang noise when it turns on then:)?

[@FlyingMonkeys69]

This is fantastic information, and so well communicated !

[@perniciouspete4986]

Really interesting and informative video. Thank you both very much.

[@TheFunnyCarpenter]

Thanks Pete, appreciate you buddy🍻

[@CorvetteAustin24]

ABSOLUTELY DO NOT USE A FIBERGLASS FILTER. Any HVAC tech that says that instantly loses all credibility and hasn't kept up on continuing education. A fiberglass filter will only protect your HVAC, it will not protect you, the occupant. The minimum MERV rating you should use in a house is MERV 8 - if you have a newer system you likely can use MERV 11 or MERV 13. This will improve your indoor air quality and protect your HVAC.

[@weekendwarrior3420]

For a couple of minutes I was thinking "The Funny Carpenter looks funny today."

[@MrWiseinheart]

So I wasn't the only one😅, he sounds like him though.

[@user-hu8fo8gd8t]

Excellent review and enjoyed the bloopers at the end! 😂

[@Violet-ui]

This is one thing I envy American houses for. The houses seem to usually have good air conditioning with air circulation and to some extent dust filtration. Here in Europe houses rarely have that kinda stuff. Even just AC is rare here

[@fdroepman8351]

There's a paper tab bent over and glued to the top of the filter frame. You can see it in the video. Pull the tab up and pull out to remove the filter.

[@ssteel8401]

Usually I simply adjust the thermostat a few degrees cooler, wait for the blowing to stop, then change the filter in 2 seconds. Thank you about advising against hi cost filters which strain the system.

[@trinaroe5132]

Thanks for the suggestion to add reminders on my phone! I hate that there is no audio reminder on the thermostat, just a visual one. But I have to look closely at the thermostat and since it’s programmed I rarely do.

[@JeanPierreWhite]

I use the reminder function in my thermostat. It reminds you after a fixed number of run hours. So during winter and summer replacements are almost monthly, in spring and fall maybe every 2-3 months. Calendar time doesn't account for how much air the filter has had to process.

[@markn0024-lf3ek]

Holy hell I didn't know about the cheap vs expensive filter thing. Ordering some cheap ones now!

[@srobeck77]

Make sure its the cheapest pleated. Those fiberglass leaf catchers are complete junk.

[@user-db8pl9kd1z]

Very informative. Thank you so much for that.

[@TernaryHound]

I was convinced Jason was your brother until you introduced him! You guys have a very similar chill, knows what he’s doing, vibe. Anyway loved this video, thanks!

[@bertford8785]

Great clear video. Thank you! Question - how about K&N reusable air filters. Are you a fan?

[@billbaber6653]

Thanks for the tips

[@CU-gf7yi]

Great video, I always use Merv 8 filters and replace them at a maximum 3 month intervals, keep a reminder on my iPad calendar.

[@billredding2000]

I use FPR-5 filters (Home Depot's brand) which are ~equivalent to MERV 8. A HVAC guy once told me (YEARS ago)< if you can see though a filter, it's ain't filtering much. True, and pretty obvious isn't it. For me, FPR5/MERV 8 are WAY better than see-through (useless) cheap fiberglass filters, yet they don't compromise/redistrict airflow. Win-Win. And my size filters (16x25x1) are only $11.96/5-pack. Nice. My apt complex uses the cheap fiberglass ones (seems like ALL complexes do), but I go with the better ones. And replace them every 90 days. -- BR

[@phillyfathead]

Nice change and very informative!

[@TheFunnyCarpenter]

Cheers buddy🍻

[@WNCRod]

Thanks for this. I learned a lot!

[@jimjim2822]

Thanks for this… excellent video👍👍

[@geraldinefields1730]

Thank you and Jason.

[@garbo8962]

The service tech told me that I was running too high of a Merv filter in the summer guess because duct work in 60 year old house are undersized. Like to use 2" wide painters tape to seal filter. Just wish all the filter manufacturers used one standard filter rating system like Merv. Best to purchase two or four at a time. As soon as I only have one left will pick up more on next trip to big box store.

[@trinaroe5132]

I’ve never turned the power off, but I do wait for the blower to stop running when I change. Fortunately my filter is easier to get to so it’s a pretty quiet change.

[@joewenzel5142]

Excellent info. Definite bookmark this video.

[@TheFunnyCarpenter]

Glad you think so!

[@thenexthobby]

Tip # 6, have your HVAC tech buy a pair of tin snips and slot in a thicker 3", 4" or 5" pleated filter. Now you can increase the MERV rating *without* added restriction. The $1 fiberglass filters basically last forever because they let everything through.

[@mrsmucha]

This was a great and really helpful video.

[@TheFunnyCarpenter]

Thanks for watching:)

[@twosawyers]

Those one inch merv 13 filters use specialized materials that reduce static pressure very little. A KZbinr tested this after talking bad about these filters just to find the opposite. The static pressure between the merv 10 was actually higher than the merv 13.

[@n2omike]

They make the Merv 13 filters less restrictive by adding surface area via more pleats. Some people cannot grasp that concept. The extra area also allows them to hold more dirt before becoming restrictive. Check out the Project Farm video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJzNg35_h9uUa5o

[@GuitarPlayer42]

Except that the 3M Filtrete 1900 model you have in your hand has one of the best air flow ratings of all filters. Due to the extreme number of pleats (thus why it's more expensive), even though it's a MERV 13 filter it has significantly better resistance ratings at any CFM than the majority of air filters, even ones of a much lower MERV rating.

[@majortom2224]

I have put a Filtrate 1900 in changing out every 3 months which is excessive given I live alone, have no pets, and vacuum twice a month. I started using the 'charcoal' Merv 11 filter as activated charcoal (claim) filters out odours etc. It's cooking odours that drive me nuts because they seem to linger so long. This is very subjective and I've only had it had for a couple of weeks. I have a high eff furnace ( brings in outside air for combustion not recirc indoor air) and for all I can read a Merv 11 will satisfy most needs. If I had pets, kids, etc I would go back to the 1900 changing more frequently i.e. holding it up to a light to get an idea of how dirty it has become.

[@jtomtl]

Very useful tips!

[@mrcryptozoic817]

I have a Heba365 filter. Its change time is normally once a year. But usually I can go 1 1/4 year. But it requires a little work on the cold air duct to fit it in initially.

[@danobrien3109]

As an HVAC contractor/technician I think every home owner needs to watch this informative video. Mr. Holmes made a boatload of money misrepresenting the value of 3M Filtrete filters. Air quality is best achieved by using whole house air cleaners or a hepa whole house system.

[@MrWhatis]

Doesn't the furnace do the whole house as well?

[@danobrien3109]

@@MrWhatis yes the furnace supplies the whole house with heat and air conditioning. 1” high density filters create very restrictive air flow. This is hard on heat exchangers in the heating mode because it causes heat exchangers to get too hot. In the cooling mode it causes evaporator coils to freeze over. It shortens the life of blower motors because of over heating them with restricted air flow. Whole house air cleaners are better because they have more surface area for air movement to occur. HEPA air cleaning for whole house removes a certain amount of air from the return air duct and sends it through the HEPA cleaning filters and UV lights and reintroduces it back into the air stream of the house. Hope this clarifies things for you.

[@MrWhatis]

@@danobrien3109 i have run the 3m filters since the 90s before mike got his picture on it. furnace was installed in 1987. replace the fan motor in 2023. i notice the furnace was cycle on /off to cool heat exchanges, got 36 years out of it. yes there is a certain amount of resistance over nothing or filter that will not catch anything. but a good filter catching more and plugging up to me means it is doing it job. just needs to be change more often. I guess it comes down to want you want. cleaner air or make no difference . I thank you for your reply . 1 more question does the HEPA system run on the same duct work as the heating duct work?

[@danobrien3109]

@@MrWhatis I don’t disagree with anything you have said. Furnaces prior to the 90’s were generally PSC motors ( using a run capacitor) or belted motors. Both good motors and hard working. They both consumed more energy than ECM motors ( constant torque , no capacitor). ECM motors run using much less energy than either of the other two. This was and is one of the reasons ( not the only one ) that furnaces today are much more efficient than previous generations of furnaces. That being said these motors are not as tolerant with air flow restriction because they are not using an energy absorbing capacitor to help in the operation. As for your question on HEPA air cleaning. Yes it is incorporated into the existing duct work system, very much like an HRV . The difference between the two is that the HEPA filtration system does not exhaust stale out to the outside. It simply cleans it and reintroduces it back into the air stream of the duct work. Hope this helps to clarify what I said in my previous post.👍🇨🇦

[@MrWhatis]

it does help. thank you.. i understand it better, thank you, 1 more question , would changing the filter every 30 days (monthly) do you think that would prevent the new furnaces from over heating ? thank you again .

[@ThePhoenix3172]

What are your thoughts on using 1" filters vs the larger 4" filters and the frequency of changing those out? My unit will accommodate both sizes.

[@desireelococo1747]

And thanks so much for posting this video!!

[@phillipjenkins5978]

Air filters have ‘support’ on the ‘back side’ to prevent the filter material from being sucked into your air handler (a/c, furnace, etc.). So, if the arrows point AWAY from the back side ‘support’ always put the back side support towards your indoor unit. Don’t JUST rely on the arrows. This is the most efficient and effective way filters work. Always double check. Get pleated filters, even though they cost more, they have more filter surface area and can catch the smaller/finer things floating around inside your home, office, etc.. This is especially important because, believe it or not, indoor air is DIRTIER than outdoor air.

[@user-iw5wr2sp2u]

Good advice dude

[@cindymcgrath5698]

I turn down the temp on the stat by 2 degrees. I also do this after the furnace cycle is done. Works just fine doing it this way.

[@handlesaredumb1]

Do not leave your fan running 24/7 during cooling season. Your AC pulls the humidity from your home to the evap coil. Once the temp is met the system shuts down and the humidity drains off the coil and out the drain. If the fan stays running it will blow the moisture, thus the humidity back into the home. Heating season, have at it.

[@maxell3655]

No it does not. It runs at a much lower speed which doesn't pull the moisture off. Funny part is that even when running at max speed for cooling, your a/c is still draining properly and the moisture isn't flying around. This comment is false information

[@handlesaredumb1]

@maxell3655 I've been doing HVAC for over 6 years, and yes, leaving your blower on during cooling season will cause humidity issues. I've seen plenty of floors and cabinets ruined due to it.

[@maxell3655]

@@handlesaredumb1 nice! Glad to see someone trying to find solutions to try and help the consumer. Well small background, 2nd generation HVAC tech, highest level of certification to achieve in my country for over 12 years now. Anyways, sure, you could have an extremely small percentage of the water evaporates into the air that didn't drain while it was running. Now metal drain pans always rot, systems that had the drain line plug and the drain pan overflow will cause excessive rotting of everything underneath the coil. Now that you mention the humidity thing. I am sure that you are well aware that as long as it's above zero inside or outside the house that evaporation is always happening. That raises humidity. Houses are not sealed 100% which means they are prone to air exchange from leakage, if it's above freezing, humidity is coming in. Any standing water in a toilet, a cup, bowl, drain is always evaporating inside a house. Water sitting in your drain pan of your evaporator will also evaporate and one could argue that not running the fan would cause that specific areas by the evaporator to eventually go up to 100% humidity until the fan turns on again to move that humid air away from materials that can rust. I have lived in a house that had the fan run constantly as it was a 4 level split to keep all the floors closer to the same temperature. That fan only stopped running the day it died after almost 16 years. Then we replaced it later that day and kept it running.

[@handlesaredumb1]

@maxell3655 How many generations have we had "professionals with the highest certifications" do things wrong? Lead pipes for drinking water and paint, for example. I don't know where you live, but in the southern US having the blower on all the time during the summer will cause issues. Best thing for people to do is try it and see for themselves, instead of listening to two strangers argue online.

[@maxell3655]

@@handlesaredumb1 you aren't wrong. Can't always be right. Have to know your area. I live way way north of you. Been working with equipment that's over 40 years old where the blower has never shut off and it still looks immaculate inside. But where I am, only time that you see a rusty situation is when it is related to a drain pan that has overflowed. Outside of that, don't really see anything unless the house itself has moisture problems that isn't related to the equipment. Maybe you guys down there need to slow the fan speed down in a/c to pull more humidity out of the air to help combat the moisture problems a bit

[@majortom2224]

Metal coat hanger...cut the long piece off, bend a small hook on one end, a larger on the other, use the small hook to pull filter out and leave the 'hook' on the cold air return just above the filter always there when you need it.

[@TypoKnig]

I got a pair of plastic putty knives that I use to pull out the old air filter. I put one on each side of the filter, twist them just a little, and pull the filter out. I keep them in my furnace room.

[@courtneycampden-main7133]

My Trane air handler and filter is set up like you said the basement one should be. However my air handler is on the main floor. Was the air handler and filter placement installed wrong? I don’t have a basement.

[@douglasbaker5949]

i make a loop out of masking tape on the filter with the date of install. makes removing so easy.

[@mariav1274]

🇦🇺 I thought that was you! I had to watch it twice. 😊

[@TheFunnyCarpenter]

It’s close!

[@bobmartin6055]

Very helpful!!

[@winniel6228]

Is this same as apartment furnace? Do I have to turn off the the furnace before I change the filter and how often I have to do this (once a year or twice) my apartment comes with AC and was build in 2020 . My last changed was done on September 2023 Thanks

[@NackDSP]

If you use a cheap filter, dust will clog your air conditioning coil or heat pump coil after a few years. It's very difficult to clean those coils as they have very delicate fins that are hard to reach.

[@srobeck77]

This is why friends dont let friends ever use washable or fiberglass filters. Its also hard on your fan motor to be coated in dust too. More dust on the furniture also.

[@bourne808]

Would you recommend an electrostatic filter with merv 8 polyester filter?

[@louf7178]

I've settled on MERV 5 as optimal. MERV 4 gave dust clumps in areas, higher filtration gave high leaving air temperatures, which I didn't like heating the heat exchanger. Dust is satisfactorily under control with MERV 5.

[@adamsteele6148]

MERV 5 is perfect

[@louf7178]

@@adamsteele6148 Thanks. Was wondering what others think since marketing, I believe, is excessive or slightly fear mongering.

[@adamsteele6148]

@@louf7178 my heat pump quit whining the moment I replaced my merv 11 with merv 5 in the dead of winter when the system works the hardest

[@louf7178]

@@adamsteele6148 Excellent. I really like to warn people against higher filter efficiencies, but that gets rejected because of hyper-health concerns (not undesirable). There are drawbacks that typical residential equipment isn't built to withstand - mainly higher air restriction leading to lower airflow leading to high heat exchanger temperatures or possibly evaporator coil freezing. And the cost of running higher filter efficiencies. (Telling the truth, I've even vacuumed my filter instead of buying a new one each time, and it seems to be fine.)

[@kgillen3202]

Would love a close up of mistake number 2 and also a comparison of the same side of each of the filters for a good visual.

[@jameshorton7496]

I have the same filter setup as in the video. My furnace has such air pull that it nearly pulls the filter into the blower. Sometimes pulling the filter out to check it or change it, the filter is all messed up and hard to get out of the slot.

[@rtel123]

This video caught my eye because I have the identical furnace. When they installed it, I suggested that they put a row of my concrete bricks under it because a one inch flood of water in the next 20 years is likely, and who wants water in their steel furnace? They raised their eyebrows and decided it was a great idea. Already paid off when the grandkids overflowed the toilet with tissue. :) I see here a water tank beside the furnace. It has a tray but that pressure relief valve.... they do fail!

[@tonyc7352]

I think that is a good idea. I've always wondered why that isn't more common, especially if you have the ceiling height.

[@barbiec4312]

Thanks very much! ❤

[@WiSeNhEiMeR-1369]

Thanks COOP ...

[@DW-ni4xb]

What kind filter would you use for a trailer furnace my furnace uses like carbon one better ones I can get?

[@name.terrie]

Thanks heaps!

[@leofortey7561]

We went from a MERV8 to MERV11 and noticed a massive reduction in dust on everything. What I really want is a larger filter. 16x25x1 is too small! Should be illegal. They get filled too quickly. My sister's house is 3x mine and she has a 20x25x5(She uses a MERV2 or 3 1" as a pre-filter and a 4" MERV11). Changes it 2x a year(pre-filter every 3 months). I have to change mine almost monthly and she has 4x the cats I have ;-)

[@heroknaderi]

Cool tips

[@user-ei9nb6xu1w]

Yes. Always wait for it to cycle through.. then change it.

[@Scubamike4499]

When it comes to the quality, whatever you see on the good filter when you change it would've been in your lungs. I can see clear as day through those blue fiberglass ones Just my 2 cents

[@srobeck77]

friends dont let friends use leaf catcher fiberglass filters

[@wtmayhew]

Great tips. I have an older furnace where the filter sits at an angle behind a cover. I found that I have room for a 2 inch thick filter. There is better air flow because the deeper folds almost double the surface area of the filter material.

[@randybecker8146]

Well Done!

[@adamsteele6148]

MERV 5 is great. That is what I recommend.

[@dorenestrand6106]

I noticed the green light turns off when you open the compartment door to change the filter, there is a button that releases when you remove the door , i think it’s some kind of safety issue. Is the green light supposed to be flashing after you replace the door? I didn’t take note of that when replacing mine. Also, my set up is different and i have the air drawing from the floor area and the filter is directly under the furnace, when I’m watching your video it looks like the filter should be on the top part of the furnace . I’m so confused . Can i send you a picture?

[@Note-dy6yd]

Thanks for the information. The gas furnace had a good space for the filter. For many years I used to make my own filters based on the need, dust and season. The space in the new electric one is tight and unreasonable. The job was done and iIt was too late to find out the stupid design, otherwise I would not accept it. Again I am going to design my filters.

[@averyuslaner4102]

Just changed mine after watching this video :D

[@Julsran]

5:00 "you should have your fan running 24/7" is that only for MV11 - MY13 filters or for all units?

[@gsilcoful]

Thanks

[@MarkBarrettGM]

great video

[@Scxe]

The fiberglass filters, according to some sources and project farm on yt, you really shouldn't use a fiberglass filter if you care about air quality at all. Merv8 has a negligible effect on static pressure and filters almost 4x as many particles out. We use merv12 and definitely can tell a difference in interior air quality over merv8. With fiberglass, ugh... would be allergy city.

[@n2omike]

Exactly. This HVAC expert is 100% wrong in his filter assumptions, and took zero account of the surface area (number of pleats) in the High Merv filter such as the 3M 1900 (Merv 13) Project Farm video is spot on with data collection.

[@alsheremeta]

I agree, I wouldn't even consider using that fiberglass filter.

[@chaseweeks2708]

I think a bigger mistake is homeowners trying to be as cheap as possible when getting a furnace installed. 1in filter cavities is cheap, and dumb. Just throw a few extra bucks at it and spec a 3 or 4 inch filter, maybe a bit more to stack a charcoal prefilter. Less pressure drop, less electricity, less cost for filters over time, and less frequent filter changes at the cost of a few more bucks up front.

[@oldtimefarmboy617]

Fiberglass filters are used to remove lint from the airflow, and not much else, so it does not build up in the furnace. If you are having the HVAC system installed, require that they install a slot that will accept a 2 inch or 4 inch pleated filter. You will get the better airflow and still get dust, pollen, and other allergens removed while getting a good air flow. And they will last a lot longer as well.

[@EdwardBlazek]

Why is no mention made about a filter access cover to prevent unfiltered air from being drawn into the system at the gaps around the filter?

[@margritski]

I’ve heard of you have a filter at the furnace and another filter where suctions occurs inside the house is not recommended either, is this true ?