These Filters Are Killing You Slowly... Do This Instead.

[@Dav5049915]

I upgraded my intake from 1 inch to 4 inch filter and then increased the merv to a higher number. Best of both worlds. People in comments recommending the merv 1, you're allowing the smaller particulate to flow through into the radiators on your indoor unit. It's 100x easier to service the air filter than it is the blower motor area. Also, it's will allow mold to grow in there since it's constantly wet from condensation.

[@jackharle1251]

This is BS. Manufactured Carrier units. Want to kill your furnace every seven years .... listen to this genius. Buy the cheap ones, replace them once a month. You should be more worried about the plastics in your life.

[@RandomAxeOfKindness]

This is exactly what I did. It was especially easy with the setup of my furnace, but it's actually pretty easy to do with a LOT of furnaces. The system's quieter, the air's cleaner, better air pressure from the vents, and the filters last much longer.

[@ZERO-F2G-]

I have been in HVAC for 36 years and if you ask me what MERV to run I will tell you 1 to 2 if you cannot tell me what your system static pressure is with no filter in place. Airflow is more important than filtration as for as system performance. If your system has undersized/poorly designed/poorly installed duct distribution system, and has no room for a higher pressure drop filter, the higher the MERV the higher the pressure drop. Then you need to fix your duct system if to want better filtration, otherwise run the basic MERV 1 to 2 filters. You should only run a filter with a pressure drop your system can safely handle. MERV ratings directly equate to pressure drop, higher the MERV the higher the pressure drop. The very sad reality is that many systems already suffer from low air-flow do to static pressure issues even with no filter in place. If you have a system suffering those issues, a higher MERV filter will only make things worse. It is key to take proper static pressure measurements, to determine if your system can handle higher pressure drops across more restrictive filters. Having installed true HEPA filtration systems in the medical field, I personally believe those little magical boxes, are not true HEPA, and just a marketing ploy. Not a fanboy of UV lights either, I don't believe the costs of initial install plus ongoing bulb replacement are worth the tiny gains. Germs don't die under short term UV exposure, I don't believe most of the claims made on these devices. In summary, if you want better filtration, first determine if your system can handle the pressure drop of that filtration, if not you need to address that first. And second, while more expensive, I recommend a whole house HRV/ERV depending on climate or at least just a fresh air intake system, as a better option than UV lights and portable HEPA? filtration units. Outside air is cleaner than inside air period. UV and portable HEPA units are not guaranteed to reduce VOCS in your home, fresh air exchange is the best way to do so.

[@badjuju98]

What about what he says with a 5 inch filter. Is that best of both worlds, filtration and airflow?

[@chriso9811]

Amen, I agree with you. I have learned and figured out that my oversized system also has verrry undersized return ducts. Total ESP in the 0.75 range already with a Merv 2 fiberglass filter. It was another .15-.20 added when I had been running with normal MERV 7 pleated filters, unknowingly for many years. Yes I could pay for duct work or to have someone retrofit a 4 or 5 inch filter rack instead of 1 inch, but that is a lot of money (and the filters are also very expensive!)

[@free_electron]

A higher R13 rated filter contributed to so much decreased airflow across our evaporation coil that it caused it to freeze over rock solid with ice. We learned the hard way that the first filters you showed are actually better for your blower motor and system as a whole.

[@KPHVAC]

Upgrading your filter can be the fastest way to destroy your system due to blocking airflow! Most homes already have undersized ductwork. Test static pressure first and you probably need to install a whole new return air duct and grill.

[@Luckingsworth]

Only if you dont change your filter

[@KPHVAC]

@@Luckingsworth You need to test your static pressure first. I'm in homes every single day that have a return air duct that is half the size it's supposed to be. This means the fan is running twice as hard and you are getting half the heat or cool. Upgrading the filter will only limit more airflow and cause more problems if your ductwork isn't sized right. Test static first, add a 2nd return air duct if needed, then you can upgrade to better filters. If your static pressure is high you will cause your HVAC system to die prematurely.

[@alfredoalvarez1510]

I have been using them in my house for over fifteen years. I have never been sick because Flanders air filters from HD. Here in AZ those air filters do wonders when it comes to air circulation and most people don’t use their comfort systems when it’s cold. Those air filters that have been used before you were born and no one has died for breathing dust here in AZ. We just needed you to be born to tell us that those air filters are garbage, lol. I agree with you that maybe those filters are not the best for people with very bad allergies, but man! Garbage?

[@michaelzang9739]

I think you’re better off with good airflow. I’ve been buying the cheap filters and spraying them with a coating of vegetable cooking spray for years. Seems to work just great.

[@diyhvacguy]

No offense but this just sounds gross but to each their own 👍🏼

[@NurseAcrobat]

I finally modified my return grilles to accept 4 inch rather than 1 inch deep filters by bending down the metal that held the 1 inch filter in place and adding standing s cleat duct fittings around the perimeter to hold the new deeper filter. Now I no longer need to rely on special honeywell return grill media filters that cost $50+ each in order to use a larger filter, and can instead use any 16 by 20 by 4 filter I want at less than half the price. The s cleat pieces for both returns were less than $20 total online at menards and install took under 30 minutes.

[@zunar_j5_933]

Use the cheapest pleated has always been my method. Less strain on the system and still decent filtering.

[@diyhvacguy]

To each their own. 👍🏼 I just give my opinion, take it for what it’s worth

[@rcstl8815]

@@diyhvacguy Your opinion is leading people to problems that you won't have to pay for.

[@lanceditzler]

Your hvac system was not designed to filter air for your breathing. The filter is only to keep debris from the coil.

[@jimgemm1]

New home, hvac installer informed us that we need to use the cheap ones for warranty reasons. Had some issues with the hvac after 3 years, not related to filters, asked the service tech about filters and he said the same thing, use the cheap ones!

[@raybieze]

I use the green ones too. Took a look at the coil a week ago. Clean as a whistle.

[@economicprisoner]

Home depot used to sell those for price-bracketing purposes. Those being the cheap filter you are not expected to buy. I bought a package when I was using reuseable filter (to put in while the reuseable filter dries). Since the pandemic I have been using MERV13 filters. Re stress on the system: the 3M filters add extra pleats to the high MERV filters in order to mitigate the extra restriction somewhat.

[@countysecession]

In a previous house, the technician told me to use the cheap air filter because the system didn't have adequately-sized return air.

[@diyhvacguy]

That’s because he didn’t know anything

[@KRTube75]

That technician was correct.

[@MikemMartinez]

@hvac how do you know?

[@rcstl8815]

@@diyhvacguy You are not a professional tech and have no place insulting a professional tech. We live the problems you are supporting every day.

[@rcstl8815]

@@MikemMartinez We have tools to measure airflow and can measure the restriction and damage. That's how.

[@heatherakagamermom7790]

Thicker filters make my machines work harder and they run constantly. I put the cheaper ones in and they run just fine. I use air purifiers in the rooms. I appreciate this video. It’s nice to hear someone really break it down.

[@youdontknowme5969]

We use the cheapest pleated filters (MERV 3) most of the year. We have bad fall allergies (regweed) so we'll use a pollen/allergen-rated filter (usually MERV 7) from around September to first freeze. We also keep on hand a MERV 11 carbon filter just for when outdoor air is smoky from distant wildfires---it's used only when needed and stored otherwise. Our system takes only 1" filters... it could take 2" with some "unapproved alterations," but there's no room in the closet to fit a 4 or 5" filter box 😕.

[@7x779]

I changed my diet and all my spring allergies and hay fever completely went away something I never thought was possible since I had them since my youth

[@BryanTorok]

@@7x779 What specific changes did you make to your diet? I used to get yearly steroid shots but they don't approve of those any more. Now I take medication daily and often I still have trouble breathing.

[@7x779]

@@BryanTorok I was on two different steroid injections, two different steroid inhalers, two different prescribed pills, and my allergies and breathing only kept getting worse even in the offseason and was becoming all year The allergist told me there's no cure for this and if you can move somewhere else where it doesn't happen and she would recommend moving, as it will only get worse and you can even die from it Then while watching a Christian television station they had on a few different holistic doctors as well as some pastors who gave their testimony on how they were healed from the same thing so I applied as much of it as I could One of them who was not a doctor said that he realized when his allergies first started there was a particular species of tree and heavy Bloom that coincided with the same time he went through a traumatic and debilitating experience and he had held resentment bitterness and unforgiveness toward what had happened to him When he learned to forgive from his heart, his allergies went away And the doctors we're mainly about changing the diet which one of them had a top 10 list of foods never to eat and I think number one on there was anything with the word hydrogenated in it So I cut out all things with anything hydrogenated and as well as all seed oils and anything fried in it like vegetable oil, soybean oil, canola oil, and all fried fast foods which all use the worst possible oil, usually soybean oil Then I also cut way back on processed foods, sugar, carbs, starches Etc And after less than a year of doing this and some other things I may have forgotten, when allergy season came again, and the pollen was just pouring off the Mulberry and pine trees so heavily you had to use your windshield wipers to get it off , instead of me getting afraid and impressed by this and expecting the allergy to trigger me again I practice being calm and not thinking about it and diverting my thoughts and saying to myself, this isn't going to happen, I'm just going to be still in my thoughts and mind and ignore it and expect nothing to happen I also remembered and brought to my mind a scripture that says, be still and know that I am God And I had a little sniffle a couple times, the fear started to come up on me, but I kept resisting it, and the first couple times I did take a contact pill that spring, and after that, nothing ever happened again And that's been about 20 years ago in spite of what the specialist told me of there being no cure, I haven't had an allergy attack since then. Put prior to doing all of these things, my allergies for horrible since I was a young teenager probably about 13, and they were only getting worse over time Bringing the subject up has caused me to remember how bad they used to be and how grateful I am that I learned this information and was able to be healed. I think it was a combination of the physical nutritional and dietary things I did, plus the psychological emotional mental and spiritual application as well as faith in god, that he's a Healer and that he's a god of peace and Harmony and wholeness and wants to cure and heal people and make them at peace with their bodies themselves and their creator

[@BryanTorok]

@@7x779 Tnx for sharing the information.

[@edwardmissouri2216]

Those five inch filters are amazing. I wish I had room for one. I just use the cheap one inch and keep it changed every couple of months. You definitely don't want to block airflow, especially with the variable speed (expensive) blower motors. Keep filters changed, BEFORE they get really dirty.

[@ZRXBILL]

Those you say not to use are the exact ones I use. I have an air purifier in my home to filter the air I breathe . I use those to keep my HVAC system running good.

[@KeithConley]

We have a lot of pets and I use those cheap green things as a prefilter to catch the pet hairs before they get to the 20x25x4 pleated filter. Probably not needed, but it makes me feel better.

[@brothermine2292]

Something else to consider is whether the HVAV air intake has air paths that evade the filter or that let in unconditioned air from outdoors. If so, eliminate those undesirable paths. I bought a 12 foot roll of 1" wide magnetic white board, which I use like weather stripping to seal the gaps in the HVAC's filter cabinet. After I sealed the gaps, the filter stayed much cleaner, because I sealed out the dirty outdoors air. Alternatively, you could use painter's tape to seal the gaps. That's what I used to use before I bought the magnetic "tape," which is easier to remove and can be reused many times.

[@NurseAcrobat]

Thanks. Ordering the magnetic tape now. I'd been using painter's tape.

[@brothermine2292]

>NurseAcrobat : There's another kind of product also called "magnetic tape," which has an adhesive glue on one side. Don't get the kind that has the adhesive glue. Be sure to get the kind that's called a "white board" (which the ad says is for writing on, but that's not our intended use). Use the magnetism (not an adhesive glue) to stick the segments of the roll to the metal around the gaps, after cutting segments of appropriate length.

[@europana7]

I use that cheapie as a prefilter to the main filter

[@Richard-by6br]

Unfortunately the better micron types of filters put much more stress on your AC compressor causing them to conk out sooner.

[@brothermine2292]

That's why the video recommends adapting the HVAC air intake system to use a 5" filter. It has much less resistance against air flow, due to its much greater surface area.

[@z06rcr]

Higher end one inch pleated filters have much increased surface area so they occlude less rapidly than cheaper pleated ones

[@peckerpeter2078]

Older units don’t have room for a 5” filter, The higher the Merv rating the greater the resistance in air flow. I’ve found a Merv 5 filter to be best and highest to use for efficiency.

[@brothermine2292]

>peckerpeter2078 : An older unit not designed for a 5" filter might nevertheless be adapted/retrofitted. That was briefly mentioned in the video. As a last resort, the filter could be mounted inside the intake duct, or mounted inside the home placed over the intake vent. A good DIYer won't give up too easily.

[@peckerpeter2078]

@@brothermine2292 @$33.96 ea must buy 6 for 5”. It’s not even close to a cost effective solution for older units. I use 2 Merv 5 filters @1” thick for $5.97 ea 3m brand replace after three months, which is maximum per year that’s not even including my 10% discount I get. It’s a no-brainer to use the Merv 5, my 2004 carrier unit runs much more efficient. I’ll use this dinosaur for another 10 years and then I’ll think about replacement.

[@rodrigofarruguia1708]

Get an independent air purifier and don't use a high merv on your ac. AC is for cooling and heating, no reason to have it do another task and put stress on the unit. I have an independent air purifier and also a dehumidifier...Florida. Just makes sense to always filter the air without having to have a costly AC running, specially those 5 ton single speed units with low SEER rating.

[@ericgardner5548]

Those purifiers are junk, most dont do what they claim.

[@DirectorRobb]

Wow, felt like I just watched Home Shopping Network and not a KZbin video. It's just a giant ad.

[@diyhvacguy]

Sorry it came across that way. We are sponsored by Filterbuy, but I also try and share good information as far as air quality and filtration. Best, Dave

[@MikemMartinez]

Air quality is set per manufacturer. Read the booklet. Most use for knee pads😂

[@fuzzresponder2225]

Lets face it ACs are to cool your home, not to filter your dirty air from your dirty house!

[@user-ln7of9gs4s]

Yawn. 2:20 explains it. Basically use the 5” and have more air blow and better filtration. Or, get a big filter rack and put two filters in there.

[@superspeeder]

Ok, so how do you clean your air if not with your furnace filter?

[@DJNoMask]

@@superspeederenviroklenz, iQ Air and Dyson big & quiet

[@DJNoMask]

And of course a central vacuum or at least vacuum with hepa filters and bags

[@jacobbarger1427]

@@superspeederbypass hepa air fitration

[@Only60GamesPlayed]

I have allergies and I use the large box filter with charcoal! I change it every 6 months! We don’t run the furnace nor a/c very much anymore!

[@RandallSGregory]

Just installed a reme halo led and love it

[@cejkwo100]

I buy the cheap ones like the first one you showed. I’m more concerned about my system breathing easier than me. Lol

[@middle-agedmacdonald2965]

Exactly. This is bad advice.

[@teknacious]

Keep house clean your s8

[@7x779]

Those are fine if your house is not filthy and you don't have a lot of In-N-Out traffic full of hairy pets in rambunctious kids add Pharisees or idolatrous Artemis worshipers tearing their robes and flinging dust into the air

[@7x779]

Fun fact, The Dangerous Ones he says are going to kill you used to be the only one sold and what everybody used for many decades I remember when the first pleated ones came out and it was an expensive luxury So we need to send out a notice to all those people who grew up with the filters shown in the picture and let them know they should be dead already I guess it's proof that God does exist and it's a miracle that they are alive!

[@q-_-p.d-_-b]

Your condenser prob clogged up with dust.

[@xlerb2286]

I just switched from the better MERV 11 filters to the cheapo MERV 1 filters on the summer house because I was worried about the extra stress being put on the system. I noticed almost immediately that the new filter wasn't doing anywhere near the same job as the old filter had been doing thanks to some smoke from distant forest fires that was in the air. The old filter kept the house pretty fresh but the cheapo filter didn't do a thing for removing the smoke particulates. So I'm going back to the MERV 11 filters. It's a small house and a small HVAC system.

[@wkb8326]

I use TWO of those cheap filters, one on top of the other for better filtration, but less restrictive than the higher filtration filters.

[@KPHVAC]

You MUST get a static pressure test done on your system before upgrading to a better filter!! 90% of homes in my area have a single return air duct and grill that is way too small. We are constantly installing a 2nd return air duct and grill to fix airflow issues.

[@thomasmcguire6940]

I’m so glad that I came across your channel, thx!

[@jerrrdy]

Anytime I talk to an HVAC tech, I always ask 3 questions: What is the best filter to use, does adding shade over your outdoor unit help and your #1 issue during calls. They all have recommended the fiberglass filters, yes shade helps the outside unit (must have 5ft clearance on all sides to allow adequate airflow,) compositor or filter change. Anything to help air flow through the system. Buy a separate device that specializes in your needs; air purifier, dehumidifier ect. Edit: I did buy a UV light for my evaporator coil. It went from 'covered in black sludge' to a clean silver coil after install. I made sure to take pics. (This was a business unit)

[@lamontdarnell6478]

Actually putting the AC unit into shade will make it less efficient shading the unit can limit air flow trap heat and prevent hot air from escaping this causes the unit to work harder to cool your home which increases energy use

[@jerrrdy]

@@lamontdarnell6478 My bad, they said the same as your reply, “with at least 5 feet of clearance on all sides”

[@BearBig70]

​@lamontdarnell6478 Shade = a tree, a roof, even a sun shading screen, will help direct sunlight radiation from undue heating of the unit(usually metal). Of course the 5 ft. would negate any interference with air circulation, and the shade may even help keep the ground from absorbing heat and radiating back into the air at night, around the unit. Anything but an enclosure, which would indeed insulate the unit from adequate cooling. I'm not saying the savings will be huge, but even if it's enough the system from working harder and wearing it out faster, would be better overall. Not to mention the insulation around the coolant lines deteriorating more often from UV exposure, it saves money. I always shutter to think of biz/factories/ commercial bldgs that mount the coils on the hot, black tar roof in direct UV, and the heat retention. What a loss!

[@7x779]

As long as the shade is not over the top of the unit even if it's way over 5 ft I have seen this so many times over the last 40 years the shade makes it worse. Especially on calm days with no Breeze at all, many homes especially mobile homes will have the air conditioner under a carport There's more than 5 ft above it and on every side except the one next to the house, and you can feel the increase in heat as soon as you walk up to it This can be measured and confirmed when I put my thermometer into the inlet airflow to the condenser and it would be many degrees above ambient temperature I even measured as much as 130° going into the coil on a 112 degree day

[@nevgeth40]

For those of us with a single in ceiling return that would be difficult to modify for a Honeywell filter rack, how can we figure out how thick of a filter we can go to before constricting the flow between the filter and the side of the box with the return duct? The filter box is 20x40 with 5 1/4" from the 1" filter to the top of the box, but the duct inlet is centered on one of the 20x20 filter locations.

[@NurseAcrobat]

That filter box may be already a little shallow. An article on Energy Vanguard titled "How to Make a Good High-MERV Filter Even Better" recommends a minimum of 6 inches above the filter. It details the issue of high static pressure from a shallow filter box and resolving it by increasing the depth of open space above the filter. If the space above the filter box is accessible maybe a larger/deeper box could be installed but that's not as simple as switching out a filter.

[@ayeomandvl]

It still didn't answer the question: Is the purpose of a filter to keep gunk out of your HVAC system or to filter the air you breathe?

[@HylianOverlord]

Both... are you slow?

[@turboflush]

Yes

[@chris12321222]

I use this filter in my AC unit with a separate $300 air purifier (MERV 17) jofanda is a good brand. Has 2 filters and 2 fans 3800sf rated (home is 3300ft) and I have it right next to furnace intake

[@digirepp]

I was buying higher merv which I realize caused a noisy unit. I decided a lower the merv filter (no. I cannot recall). I noticed unit seemed to run a long time, but when I changed the filter it stopped the constant running of the unit. Plus, if temp outside is high, I up the thermo inside.

[@Sean-Jones-bluecheckmark]

We have indoor pets. We have 20x20x1 filters with merv 13 and change them once of a month.

[@billwaterhouse5894]

Would love to see an install video on the UV-C device

[@Sacto1654]

I'd recommend a MERV 10 rated filter at most if your air intake can only take a one inch filter. Probably be better to get a MERV 8 rated filted and replace it around every 30-40 days. A thicker filter like a 4" could work with a MERV 13 rated filter element.

[@nordicpride9708]

A HVAC system isn’t an air purifier though. In the southwest (Arizona specifically) they don’t run higher merv filters because it puts so much strain on the systems than were never designed to see 115-117 degree temps. If you want clean air invest in an air purifier oh a HEPA filter.

[@pollydor07]

Yes, that type of A/F thin mess Green or Blue can’t filtered small micron dust only fries can’t pass thru . Some houses I got called not cooling I found out thick blanket under Evap A coil . I recommended to home owners he told me the installers told him to do so . I replied service Tech experience not recommended. Cheap or knuckl head home owners .

[@phakeAccount]

I cannot imagine kneeling on that hard floor without any padding. If you have tons of cartilage between the pointy parts of your bones and your skin good for you but I certainly don't.

[@jgg204]

been using the green filters for almost 20 yrs. if you are concerned about indoor air quality, you should be using room-size air purifiers. and not relying on a central ducted filter to do filter the air in your entire house. use your brain people.

[@kennethpatierno6223]

Love your info I put a soft start on my AC 4ton that you recommend works wonderful going on two years the AC technician can't believe how quiet it runs I'm in NC it is heat pump. On the filters what about the drag on the fan and the AC unit with a thicker filter thanks ken

[@misterindependent7994]

Use any filter you want as long as you do not exceed .05in/wc of static pressure.

[@SignorLuigi]

Project Farm has a video where he tests the filtration and air flow of a wide variety of filters. For those folks who have 1" filters, it was very interesting to see he found out that a higher end Filtrete filter that has about three to four times as many pleats as a normal 1" filter (like the one shown in this video) had the best air flow of all the 1" filters (not counting the useless fiberglass filter). With 3 to 4 times as many pleats, this filter has 3-4 times the total surface area. Not quite as good as that 5" filter. But MUCH better at allowing air flow than normal 1" filters. Many homes where I live do not just have one air filter at the furnace. The have several filters throughout the house and filter the air BEFORE it enters the ducts. This keeps the ducts much cleaner. And 4 or 5 filters scattered throughout the house allows for much better air flow than one filter at the furnace. This is especially nice if you are using 1" filters.

[@Watchyn_Yarwood]

I would trust Project Farm's evaluations far more than anyone else's. One must also consider that those 5" filters are about $40 each. And a bit puzzled about your statement of 4 or 5 filters through out the house. I have never seen an HVAC with intake ducts scattered throughout a house. My current house and every other one I have owned over the years only has provision for one.

[@SignorLuigi]

@@Watchyn_Yarwood I have a forced air system for heat and AC. We have one return duct with a filter in our main hallway (20"X24"). One in the main bedroom (20"X16"). One upstairs (20"X20"). One in the finished basement (20"X20"). Half our upstairs is unfinished. The rough-in for the forced air system is done in the unfinished part and it contains the currently unused 5th return duct with a filter housing. Our house is 20 years old. Essentially, all the return ducts in my house are large openings and have filters. My childhood home is in New England and is about 70 years old. It also has a forced air system. But it has tiny return ducts (maybe about 5"X10") with no filters. No central AC. I'm not sure if my house represents the new standard for a forced air system throughout the United States. But it is common in new construction where I live in the hot and humid southeast USA.

[@Watchyn_Yarwood]

@@SignorLuigi I live in the hot and humid southwest USA, two of my best friends are building contractors and a third flips houses. None of their new constructions have multiple intake ducts. I am 79, I have owned houses all over Arkansas, Tennessee, Alabama and Texas. Probably close to a dozen in total. None of which had multiple intake ducts. I have seen one that an acquaintance owned in Tennessee. I thought at the time how very odd. Live and learn!

[@SignorLuigi]

@@Watchyn_Yarwood Thanks for the reply. That is very interesting. On the surface, it would seem that multiple, filtered returns offer performance and longevity advantages. But no doubt it costs more up front. Out of curiosity, I might check some regional building codes and see what they say. Knowing my home's builder, I can't imagine he installed anything in our house he wasn't absolutely required to do! 🤣🤣🤣

[@ZERO-F2G-]

Link please, because as a 36 year HVAC guy high end filtrete as in their allergen line are as bad as it gets, their basic filtrete is generally fine. Their allergen line has a pressure drop based on CFM written on the filter frame, and its 9 out of 10 times way above standard design, and destroys airflow, causes furnaces to overheat and A/C units to freeze up. Also of note, filtering at the grille has no benefit over filtering at the unit, if the duct work after the filter isn't well sealed, its actually generally worse. Also the number of filters does not matter, the sizing of the duct system is what matters. I can design a duct system with 1 filter, that is superior to improperly designed system with multiple filters.

[@mplscarsales6652]

I have the green one and when I used high quality one it literally killed the system it put out the flame 🔥 couldn’t figure out what was going on ??put back green filter been working for many years now. so I do want to change to a better filter but need system to be able to breathe as well .blower motor hasn’t been changed in over 14 years

[@mcnamber]

I spray mine with end dust. Never had a problem. I use room filters for bedrooms and living room.

[@billy2bob63]

I spray all my filters with a silicone spray let dry then install.

[@tolmul1]

Appreciate your knowledge and the video. Good stuff! What's your thoughts on an iWave R system that is installed where the blower is located?

[@Qdub34]

Can you comment on the washable electrostatic filters? I have 2 for my house and I just swap them out and wash them every 6 months. They are supposed to be MERV 8, but not sure if that's legit and/or it degrades over time.

[@jeffhines2895]

Only issue I see in my case, if going to 5" filter, my filter inlet frame is made for a 1" filter. I would have to replace those with 5" housings.

[@darylfortney8081]

Woosh air is also an excellent option for not needing to change air filters more often than necessary.

[@blake_edwards]

It's a great idea to use the thicker filters. Until you factor in the price to add the frame that you have to add to your system.

[@NurseAcrobat]

Everyone's situation will be different, but in my case I was able to make my two 1 inch return grilles accept 4 inch filters. Honeywell makes 3 inch filters that fit the 1 inch lip in grilles but they cost $50+ each while just being merv 10. I used them for 2 years and then finally hammered down the 1 inch lip and created a new lip for 4 inch filters using standing s cleat around the perimeter. The cost was $20 and ~30 minutes of my time, though I'm not sure what an hvac tech would charge or how many people with return grill filters would have room for a 4 inch filter while still having plenty of space behind the filter.

[@Ishiisan]

Daikin makes air filtration systems for labs and medical facilities. They know what’s up. Is it possible to change the filter grille to fit bigger filter?

[@NurseAcrobat]

I realized my filter grille was framed by 2 by 4s and was deep enough to hold more than a 1 inch filter, I just had to hammer down the metal on the edges that held the 1 inch filter and add new metal that would hold a 4 inch filter. I used standing s cleats designed for building ductwork from menards to frame the new perimeter. Before making such a modification I was using 3 inch honeywell filters that fit the 1 inch frame.

[@daveb-h4c]

How about a 1 inch merv 5? It looks like it doesn't allow large items through it but might not be too restrictive

[@billy2bob63]

I use a Fiberglass filter for the upper and a pleated filter for the lower on my Hvac mobile home filters! I also spray them when new before install with a silicone spray then let dry and install.

[@digirepp]

What about "Washable" filter? Please do a review. My thoughts, I'd use the filter in the summer and place outside to dry. Thank you.

[@sunshinegirl1967]

So if the 1 inch Merv 11 puts a lot of strain on the hvac system, won't the 5 inch put even more?

[@brothermine2292]

No, just the opposite. The filter material in the 5" filter isn't thicker. (If it were thicker, it would have a much higher MERV rating.) You can see in the video when it's stretched out on the floor that the material isn't thicker. It's 5 times wider, not thicker. The increased width means increased surface area, which means less resistance against air flow, not more resistance. Just like a wider pipe has less resistance against water flow. Also, the 5" filter should last much longer, because the particles filtered from the air distribute over a wider area.

[@WorkOrderMania]

The higher the MERV Rating then higher the pressure drop. Certain systems will be choked and starved for air if you don’t know how to test airflow performance.

[@christopherhaak9824]

While that might be true in general, it depends on the media type and surface area. All decent filters now have their pressure drop vs cfm curves available so you can directly compare.

[@WorkOrderMania]

@@christopherhaak9824 Ahh… I will be looking for the pressure drop vs. cfm curves on manufactures filter products. 🇺🇸✌🏻⭐️

[@battletillvictory]

Do you recommend washable filters

[@-GrimEngineer-1337]

I tried to buy 5" filers for my system from Filterbuy. Never again. The quality and construction was SH1T compared to the original Lennox filters. They arrived with dents, the pleats were all loose and messed up I had to sit there and repair them. The overall quality was poor. I pay $130 for the MERV 16 Lennox filters and change them every 6 months. Worth every penny.

[@cheryldunaway9177]

Appreciate the information from your videos!!

[@tacocin]

Most people don't have it but the AHU install/owners manual normally indicates exactly what MERV rating filter to use. If you can find your AHU model number, you should be able to find said manual online.

[@stex1985]

A person can put one of those $25 3m filters in and feel good about the whole thing. Now if and as many systems that are thrown into those new houses that are being built and lot of the older homes units and ducts are not sealed to fully utilize the filtering capabilities of that $25 filter. The more a filter restricts air flow the more negative pressure is applied to the other side of the system. The air handler is going to get air from where it can. Just like water its going the path of least resistance. Your house could end up being more dusty and unhealthy by adding a high MERV filter. It can be a struggle to find someone who will inspect a system and make sure the conditioned air inside stays in and the negative pressure is ZERO. There are many opportunities for negative pressure,Note if your cloths dryer is in the conditioned space it is pulling air from the inside and putting it outside, just walk outside and observe how much air is coming out of that dryer vent. That air just went through that $25 3m filter and the dryer shoved it right bad outside. It’s near impossible to stop all those leaks.

[@KRTube75]

The main purpose of an air filter is to protect the HVAC system, not to improve air quality. Running your HVAC system a few times a day with a MERV 1899 filter that's 42" wide does absolutely nothing to increase the quality of indoor air. If you want to improve your indoor air quality, you'd install an ERV or HRV and run it 24/7. Outdoor air is significantly cleaner than indoor air. Indoor air pollutants are 5 to 100 times higher than that of the air outside. CO2 levels are also significantly lower outside which is another benefit of running an ERV/HRV. Radon removal as well.

[@tenazrael]

@diyhvacguy - hey, I have some questions about your members only subscription. I see only 10 videos listed. Are there more videos? what training would you recommend I could do myself to become an hvac guy?

[@kristfur]

I use fiberglass filters on returns, 5" filter on the HVAC, and have a UV light. I never put Merv 11 on the returns so the HVAC can move more air without straining the system.

[@diyhvacguy]

So your return filters are basically pre filters

[@Spdr1913]

I go with Merv 8. Happy medium. I am limited by the thickness, can never go beyond 1 based on my entrance hole.

[@raywebb4824]

I currently have 2 12 x 20 MERV 8 filters in a tent-like configuration at the top of ll, which seems to allow lot of unfiltered air to enter the unit. Could I replace the return grill in my hallway with a 14 x 20 x 1 filter grille and use a MERV 8 filter? My concern is will the 14 x 20enough air flow?

[@jeffreyletempt7189]

I have a follow up video recommendation. It would be really helpful if you could demonstrate how much restriction each type and thickness of filter creates. Thanks

[@johnleo2668]

Project Farm did it already.

[@diyhvacguy]

Yea I can’t compete with Project Farm! He does awesome work and very scientific and time intensive tests

[@marksavino2580]

Is there a way to convert the grill filters to the 5-in

[@PrivateUsername]

That's the reason I could never make YT videos; it would never occur to me that someone would believe a thick filter would put strain on the system. re: FilterBuy. Their 16x24x4 filter is too small for a 16x24x4 filter holder. The 3M filtrete fits perfectly. How do you handle this difference in actual vs nominal measurement?

[@user-lz9wj4xs5j]

Love your channel!

[@diyhvacguy]

Thanks so much! 🙏🏻

[@joeretired4552]

I have a problem with you talking about these 5" thick filters. Whose home has the ability to install on a regular basis these 5" filters? In mind opinion, you need to stick with these 1" thick filters commonly found in local "do it yourself" stores. That is where you will find what most of "us" put in our HVAC systems at the commonly found air return in our homes.

[@eddiea3782]

I'm using a washable electrostatic premium quality aluminum merv 8 furnace filter. I just take it out to the driveway once a month and clean it off. I have two of them There is always a clean one ready to install while the other gets cleaned and dry. Works good for me and the dust is way down in my home now. I also have my furnace and duct work cleaned every two years. So, yeah. It's clean.

[@2mustange]

I have 2 filter returns in my ceiling. One 20x40x1 and one 20x20x1. With having the air handler in an attic how would make it so i can use a 4 or 5 inch filter? Do they make return vents that allow for that deep of a filter

[@colinheidtman6923]

What if you have 4-5 intakes in your ceiling around your home? These only accept a 1" thick filter. Should you change something or just leave these?

[@phillipm3799]

I run a cheap filter and have an water air purifier running in the middle of the house.

[@jamesbrandon8520]

The Alexa air quality monitor on Amazon says it works with Alexa but does not mention that it would work with an iPhone

[@skydancerforever]

So whats the best Merv # to buy for your furnace? Everyone including you in past video's said no more then merv 2 or 4. I looked up filters on your recommened site and they start at Merv 8?

[@sdmarathe]

for a 1 inch filter you should never use merv 13 or 14. Even 11 is too high. You should go MERV 8. Merv 11 maybe safe but is restrctive. on 4 inch fuikter you can go higher

[@bobn8865]

Filterbuy doesn't carry my Aprilaire 410, 413 pleated filters. Maybe more Aprilaire model filters to.

[@hardtruth2039]

What’s your opinion on the washable metal filters?

[@7x779]

I don't like them and I'm not aware of a real test that shows how much restriction they give and how much they clean the air. I've had many customers with those and they're usually too lazy to clean them, but oddly enough, they don't seem to catch the dirt and rarely do I find them being plugged up I have mixed feelings about them because I haven't been able to quantify whether they really work or not and haven't heard anybody else confirm good or bad

[@rogiemac]

@@7x779 I have 3 of them and 2 of them do get pretty dirty

[@Dicofol1]

What do you think of Honeywell Electronic Air filters, they are cleanable and reusable and cause almost no air flow restriction compared to regular media filters ?

[@SignorLuigi]

These cheap fiberglass filters leave the duct work and evaporator coils filthy which is not only a significant health hazard, but a significant compromise of your HVAC's efficiency and longevity of your system. As is stated in this video, THEY SHOULD NEVER BE USED.

[@7x779]

Is it an interesting that that's all that was ever sold and that's what everybody used for decades since air conditioning was invented, and there's generations of people that grew up with them and are doing just fine? I think housekeeping cleanliness lifestyle and diet is far more important then your air filter

[@SignorLuigi]

@@7x779 I would agree that living a solid lifestyle with plenty of exercise and a healthy diet is super important. But I don't think anyone is trying to rank things from most important for your health to least important here. Certainly stating that diet and lifestyle is important for your health does not mean you should ignore the ability of your HVAC filter to provide better indoor air quality. Also, I mention that cheap fiberglass air filters are known to let your evaporator coils become clogged with debris. That is not only bad for your health, especially if you suffer from a variety of respiratory problem, but it kills the efficiency of your HVAC system and puts a strain on your fan motor. So, I contend that despite whatever was done in the past, those cheap fiberglass filters are bad news. BTW, I'm not sure about your statement that 'generations of people are doing just fine' using fiberglass filters. Do you have data from studies to support that?

[@7x779]

@@SignorLuigi do I have data from studies? Why yes, absolutely and I'm glad that you asked! Not only does just a little old me as one little person been in hundreds and probably thousands of people's homes that only had fiberglass filters, I've watched many of these people grow old into their 80s and 90s But forget about my experience just look at how many people are living in the world who are in their 80s and 90s, all of them grew up with fiberglass filters Furthermore, if you think about it, you're already breathing whatever dust and dirt is in the air long before any of it gets sucked into the filter some of that dirt gets trapped in the filter Sure it helps some to have a higher quality filter but they're also more restrictive and actually allow air lessflow over the coil And even if you do restrict airflow that doesn't put a strain on the system or the blower motor. It actually unloads it Just stick your hand on a vacuum cleaner and then tell me, does the motor speed up or does it slow down under a strain and load? And the less airflow over the coil, actually it's less of a load on the air conditioner The problem is it will have reduced efficiency, you can end up having the coil freeze, and I have seen where some people let their filters get completely plugged, it unloads the blower motor so much that's the RPM gets higher than the blower wheel was designed for and then the blower wheel flies apart I just use the cheapest pleated filters that's a good compromise

[@diyhvacguy]

Why does everyone have to come and comment the same thing on this video? Lol what are you guys evening watching? Keep using your green fiberglass filters and move on.

[@SignorLuigi]

@@diyhvacguy Thanks for bringing a little sanity to this discussion. 👍

[@Wisconsin4eyes]

I knew I loved this guy! My mans wears flip flops too! 🩴

[@diyhvacguy]

🤣🤣 my feet run hot all the time! Haha

[@keything8487]

you sir are AWESOME !!!!! I LOVE THESE VIDEOS !!! HVAC companies must hate you though.

[@diyhvacguy]

Indeed

[@b4804514]

Hey are you losing weight? Be healthy looking good Can you explain if the HVAC manufacturers design for what filter so the system is not under stress? The UV light does generate ozone which can cause breathing problems.

[@BryanTorok]

I find it completely amazing the number of recommended videos that popped up with this video saying that using the pleated filters, particularly the MERV 11 or higher, will kill your HVAC system. Further they are recommending using those garbage cheap fiber glass filters. What utter nonsense. What great BS. If you really have way too much pressure drop, maybe you might restrict the air flow slightly. But the idea that you will actually damage something is ridiculous.

[@Mr.Martini549]

Good info. Thanks!

[@KilerChese]

Whats the bwst way to get an air return stand and plenum box built by someone else or where could i go to get supplies to make one?

[@robertcalliham8667]

How do I get ahold of you, I am in the salt lake city area and would like some guidance on replacing my condesor and coils if possible. I can obviously pay you for your time or set up an appointment.

[@diyhvacguy]

Email me at [e-mail] 👍🏼

[@tb-xy7lg]

I have a 4300sqft house with a air purifier in almost every larger room. I use the "cheaper" filters so my ac can more effectively get enough air flow to all rooms. When I use higher merv filters the upstairs rooms get almost no airflow. Im considering adding some in line boosters to the vents that feed those rooms though. My system is 30 years old and still works great when I use the cheaper filters. Does anyone know if those in line fan boosters put any strain on an old system? Thanks

[@Forest_Actual]

Thank you!

[@jimgemm1]

To filter the air they all recommended using air purifiers. Let the hvac breathe!

[@tenmilliondollarsnow]

I would like to go from a 1 to a 4 or 5, but our return duct is in the wall next to the A/C. Is it still doable?

[@gmr4lfe]

Do you know of any way to retrofit a 4 or 5 in thick filter in our home? Ours is in a filter grate in the ceiling but I want to be able to use a 5 in thick filter instead of using 2 20x20x1

[@MCMPACT]

If you want to clean your homes air, stop using your air handler as an air purifier. Use a good stand alone HEPA filter. You can buy a great HEPA filter for the cost of one case of these high merv rated filters. Use a more breathable lower merv filter to protect your equipment and change it accordingly. Even considering the cost of replacing the HEPA filter on your air purifier, Your indoor air will be healthier and in the long run, your bank account will be happier.

[@drp3076drp]

thx.

[@Gabriel-vz7ml]

Air conditioners are not air cleaners! Buy a separate air cleaner to clean your air. Most ac manufacturers recommend high velocity filters, close to the first filter you showed without the cardboard support.