Which fiberglass filter for HVAC?

[LuckyTaxi]

Looks like my HVAC system does not like the pleated filters. There appears to be two types of filberglass filters I've found online. What's the difference?

There's this one w/o any metal pieces to it.

https://amzn.com/B001HPM9LA

Then there's this one w/ the metal hexagon looking things.

https://amzn.com/B008LR7WR8

 

[Blain]

Looks like my HVAC system does not like the pleated filters.

What does that mean? I wouldn't use the fiberglass filters, due to their low filtration capabilities.

 

[Billb2]

It's all about Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values (MERV)

 

[LuckyTaxi]

What does that mean? I wouldn't use the fiberglass filters, due to their low filtration capabilities.

My motor went bad after a couple of years, the HVAC guy said it's because I was using a pleated filter. Me being stubborn refused to use the fiberglass ones they suggested. So earlier this week, my unit wasn't able to keep the house cool. Thermostat set to 73 but the house was hovering around 77. The next day I inserted the fiberglass ones I had laying around and the unit was able to keep my house cool at 73-74.

We had a heatwave over the weekend when this all happened.

 

[Blain]

You might consider buying two custom washable filters (one in and the other cleaned, ready for use).
I've used two BoAir filters for several years, and really like them. They are easy to clean and built to the exact size I need (no sloppy filters anymore).
If you are locked into the idea of standard fiberglass filters, at least charge them before installation with something like WEB Filter Charger.

 

[Carson Dyle]

I question the value of trying to use the HVAC system for any kind of air filtration. Open the windows on a nice day, which you'd do 24/7 if it was always 67-77 degrees outside. How much air filtration do you get then? None.

 

[Blain]

Better to trap dust & dirt in a disposable filter rather than your HVAC A-coil.

 

[TheBigEarl]

Better to trap dust & dirt in a disposable filter rather than your HVAC A-coil.

Yep, in a residential system its main function is to protect the coil and ductwork from dust and debris. You can help keep dust down in your home by using a higher filtration level media, but most residential units don't have enough static pressure in the fan to run anything beyond a MERV 5 or so without restricting the airflow and possibly damaging the fan motor.

 

[WilliamM2]

Unless you use thicker media. I've been using 5" pleated filters, Merv 11 for two decades now. The blower was still working fine when I replaced my furnace this year after 23 years of use.

Of course it will require adding the filter box, that any decent installer would have offered when is was installed.