Suggestions needed on replacing furnace filter

[gonefishing]

My furnace/air handler is due for a filter replacement. I've never replaced it before so I don't know what to look for (new furnace installed when I purchased house). The numbers off the filter are:

MERV-11 91-006

From Google, I've gathered that MERV-11 is the filtration rating and a 91-006 is an Ultravation 20"x25"x5" filter. I don't have any allergies or pets so is a MERV-11 sufficient or should I go to a higher MERV number? Should I stick with Ultravation or go with a different brand? Any suggested websites to buy from? Thanks.

 

[wallyuwl]

MERV 11 is a good filter especially if you don't have allergies or pets. Just get one that fits, brand isn't important.

 

[LeakySeals]

Expensive filter based on google shopping. I would check Home depot or Lowes if you have them, see what the alternatives are. Good air flow is key to preventing my condenser from freezing up. With pets and hardwood floors, twice a year filter change just before heating and cooling seasons is just right. Rugs trap dust, so the filters last longer. Spring and fall seems to work best. Usually spend $20. Had the ducts cleaned recently, after 5 years with the cheaper filter ducts were clean.

 

[dwcopple]

I have a 20x25x5 filter and it reduces airflow tremendously. I put in a .67 cent 20x25x1 filter and airflow improved greatly and I can buy over 25 of these for the price of 1 20x25x5. From what I gather, the filter is mainly for keeping the furnace components clean anyways. I could be wrong, but IMHO I notice no difference in air quality.

 

[bigmike]

Try a Practical Pleat filter in 20x25x5" if it is cheaper (not sure).

A 5" filter should last you around 6 months or more.

I don't use nor like 1" filters. They're horrible on air flow unless you buy lower MERV rated option. Filtration is supposed to be just for the HVAC, not your health, but with 5" filters you can have the best of both worlds.

 

[wymi516]

I always use the lowest merv pleated paper filter I can find. Like it was said before, airflow is the important part.

 

[Triple_Se7en]

Filtrete is the best buy in durability & performance furnace filters.

 

[doitmyself]

Here's a pretty good discussion that includes a few professional HVAC guys that discuss high filtering efficiency vs. air flow. They don't seem too keen about the high rated Filtretes and suggest if you need ultra filtering that you should install a separate HEPA secondary filter.

http://www.diychatroom.com/f17/what-best-furnace-filter-buy-95257/

In a nutshell, they don't recommend going over MERV 8 unless you do a test to determine that adequate air flow is going through your furnace. Otherwise, you risk damage to your furnace, unless you know that your furnace SYSTEM was designed to handle the restriction.

Maybe some more searching for professional HVAC sites will turn up more.

Actually, that 5" MERV 11 in your original post claims to have a restriction of only a MERV 8 1" filter. Maybe the best of both worlds?

I'm no expert, so confirm this info for yourself.

 

[bigmike]

Originally Posted By: Triple_Se7en
Filtrete is the best buy in durability & performance furnace filters.


Where's the proof?