You're Probably Using The Wrong Air Filter In Your Home. -HVAC Merv Ratings Explained-

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  • Опубликовано: 30 май 2024
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    In this video we talk about what MERV ratings are and why they are important. I hope you found this video informative and helpful! If so, make sure and leave it a like and consider subscribing to our channel!
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Комментарии • 180

  • @diyhvacguy
    @diyhvacguy  Год назад +4

    All My Favorite HVAC Tools: www.amazon.com/shop/thediyhvacguy?ref=ac_inf_tb_vh

    • @erikbrush
      @erikbrush 10 месяцев назад +1

      Here's an odd odd question for you.
      I am building a houseboat from a pontoon boat base. I will have a water/splash proof under deck at the level of the 3 pontoons.
      I have an 18" riser of space between the base deck and my cabin deck where I will be living.
      The reasons for the riser are multiple and varied. I have 2 kayaks that will be pulled in and out of there so it serves as a mini "kayak garage" as well as a place free of sunlight to store my potable water tank and water filtration and pumping system.
      Also the rise gives me better visibility to other boaters as well as a higher view to enjoy wildlife etc.
      But most important, I live in Southwest Florida on the Gulf coast.
      The air under the boat, due to shade and water temperature and evaporation is cooler than the surrounding air.
      As a consequence (since my living space is under 200 square feet) I plan to set up a simple remote controlled, easy access air conditioner beneath the floor deck.
      I will run a drip tube down to get rid of condensate water not otherwise recycled by the air conditioning unit.
      A floor vent will introduce cool air into the cabin. Hot air will be vented out from the sides of the boat.
      I will take in air from a compartment between the decks to allow the AC to take in air that starts out much cooler than the surrounding air.
      But because I am intaking the air from beneath my floor, between the two decks, I want to pre-fliter the air with a 4" 13 rated filter to pre-dry and pre-filter air before it even gets to the AC unit.
      Is this viable? And should I hook up a small fan to aid the AC in running such a pre-dry, pre-filter system?
      I appreciate your thoughts and input on this. I am hopeful that pre-filtering and drying the air before the ac unit circulates it should be less strain on the unit. I will run a dehumidifier in the cabin space itself since humidity is the nemesis of the boat dweller.
      Thanks.
      Erik

    • @smilingforever777
      @smilingforever777 7 месяцев назад +1

      😂😂😂😂

  • @jolkraeremeark6949
    @jolkraeremeark6949 Год назад +106

    You got some merv putting up a video like this...

  • @outlandish9233
    @outlandish9233 2 месяца назад +10

    The purpose of a furnace filter is to keep your furnace clean, not to sanaitze the air in your house. The more restrictive the filter, the more inefficient your furnace becomes. If you need to sanatize the air in your home then you need a stand-alone hepa filtration unit. Furnace filter manufacturers try to up-sell expensive filters to unknowing home owners claiming to cure allergies, etc. , but they are too restrictive for the furnace.

  • @OBSZIDIAN548
    @OBSZIDIAN548 7 месяцев назад +23

    At 42 and owning my 3rd home and now am finding out what a merv rating is! Thanks, I'm a mervert now

  • @johnb7221
    @johnb7221 21 день назад +4

    I live in north Texas and have been using MERV 11-13 air filters since we moved into our house 15 years ago. Since then we’ve had to replace one of our units and the other we have to have Freon added 2-3x a year. Lately both units seem like they’re on 24/7 and can’t even keep the temperature at where we set it during the day (74-76). We get warnings from out ecobee controller telling us it’s been trying to cool the house down for multiple hours but the temp keeps going up. We’re about to add more Freon to the older unit and whatever the newer units take to the newer (3 years old) unit. Also going to switch to a MERV 8 filter and see if that helps with air flow. May actually go all the way to a MERV 6 filter. If you live in a hot climate like Texas I wouldn’t use a higher MERV filter unless you need it for health reasons. If you do use a higher MERV filter you should probably replace it every few weeks and not every 3 months.

    • @bustertn2014
      @bustertn2014 18 дней назад +2

      IF your adding refrigerant that often you have a leak.

  • @jackl9922
    @jackl9922 Год назад +16

    It is common in my area homes don’t have enough return airflow to accommodate more than the cheap filters. Upgrading the filter can cause furnace cycling on high limit, AC coil freezing, and premature fan motor failure. I had my system tested when upgrading to prevent those problems.

    • @HobbyOrganist
      @HobbyOrganist Год назад +4

      So add another return, it's not difficult...

  • @silverfox-59
    @silverfox-59 7 месяцев назад +4

    Thank you so much for all your help. I love the way you take the time to explain everything. Awesome job 👍

  • @rodgraff1782
    @rodgraff1782 Год назад +11

    The most important thing is to have the proper amount of filter surface area for the airflow. Most residential installs are lacking in surface area.

  • @TheDude321
    @TheDude321 Месяц назад +2

    Thanks for the video. So we just had our furnace replaced last year. It’s been constant issues. Short cycling, error codes leading back to everything from the gas valve, control board to the blower motor. I’ve had the tech out multiple times and he was stumped. Finally it started locking out and I was going insane. Turns out, after some research, the Merv 12 filters we bought were restricting air flow. I purchased a Merv 10, and it’s working better than ever. Never thought the filter would cause so many damn issues.

  • @FiddlerOnTheRoof2024
    @FiddlerOnTheRoof2024 3 месяца назад

    Thank you for making this video. Very informative and well laid out

  • @PrivateUsername
    @PrivateUsername Год назад +26

    Also remember that the listed size of filter is not the actual size. The Filterbuy filters don't fit my unit - they are too small in actual measurement; the 3M Filtrete ones fit snugly.

    • @rwstarke
      @rwstarke Год назад +3

      On my ceiling returns the frame has tabs that can be bent to get the filter to stay in place.

    • @bruceelias2732
      @bruceelias2732 Год назад

      You are right 👍
      My Trio air bear needs original filter because it has felt to secure in place snug,but almost to snug🤕

    • @bruceelias2732
      @bruceelias2732 11 месяцев назад +2

      My earbear filter is 5 in thick so it has extra felt on besides which keeps it secure.
      You have to put it in exactly square and slowly to fit properly
      My the contractor who put it in said it wouldn't matter if it had play in it but I don't believe it I think that air flow and debris would get by even as a non-HVAC technician

    • @bruceelias2732
      @bruceelias2732 11 месяцев назад

      Airbear

  • @_JamieJ_
    @_JamieJ_ 6 месяцев назад

    Thank u sooooo much! Taught me something new and interesting today! I had no idea about Merv 😃

  • @MrWhatis
    @MrWhatis 3 месяца назад

    best explanation on filter i have on line . thanks

  • @joshsansone5113
    @joshsansone5113 Год назад +9

    I would really enjoy an in depth dive into manometers and checking static pressure of a system. Understanding what potentially could be done to correct issues.
    I run 14x25x1 fiberglass filters monthly in a '05 Bryant 80% up flow in a modern '05 built home.
    I tried going to the filtrete BASIC pleated which I believe is a merv 2 to 4 rating and the furnace constantly kept tripping. Went back to fiberglass and no issues.
    I run two corsi Rosenthal style air cleaners in my home due to this however I would prefer to be able to run a merv 13 pleated in the furnace.

    • @glenzee9083
      @glenzee9083 Месяц назад

      Are all your returns blocked or none existant? Merv2-4 should never trip unless they are so dirty you could use them as blackout coverings. I'd be looking beyond the filter here.

  • @mdavid2100
    @mdavid2100 Год назад

    Another informative HVAC video. Thank you.

  • @mikeyc2601
    @mikeyc2601 10 месяцев назад +10

    My understanding is that a thicker filter will actually allow more airflow than a thin one at the same MERV rating. For example, a 4" thick MERV11 has more filter surface area than a 1" filter with the same rating. The same should also apply to the number of pleats. More pleats == more surface area and greater airflow (at least that's the conventional logic with automotive filters).

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  10 месяцев назад +4

      That’s exactly right

    • @kenschmidt6522
      @kenschmidt6522 6 месяцев назад +1

      Thicker filters also tend to last longer due to the increased surface area.

    • @OneTrueCat
      @OneTrueCat 4 месяца назад

      That's exactly right. If you want a more in depth explanation of why, practical engineering has a great video on weirs (like a dam that's meant to be overtopped) and they have a similar phenomenon, where jagged or wavy ones have a higher throughput than a straight line across the same span.

  • @KingofDoubleBogey
    @KingofDoubleBogey 10 месяцев назад +2

    I have to change my filter 20x20x1 every 4-6 weeks. Desert Southwest dust is ridiculous, so I use merv 5 or 8, I’m not going to restrict my airflow in the summer since it runs 12 hours a day during June-August 110 degrees outside
    New Rheem 3 ton package unit on the roof

  • @et3322
    @et3322 Год назад +17

    Great video. Would love to see a video on the differences between keeping the fan on all the time vs in auto mode. I’ve had HVAC techs tell me both.

  • @hitekrednek66
    @hitekrednek66 Год назад +4

    Very informative sir! And I must say....I think you are the first HVAC Guy to say you can use filters other than the cheap change every 30 days so you don't restrict air flow! I have always been told don't restrict air flow so you won't have any issues with air handler. Very refreshing and I appreciate your honest input. Thanks again sir! Keep them coming and stay safe and blessed.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Год назад +2

      Thanks for the support! Happy to share the info with everyone :) cheers

  • @Inkling777
    @Inkling777 Год назад +9

    You might do a video on saving money on filters. In my case I use a cheap filter in front of a more expensive one. The cheap one catches the larger dust and can be discarded more often than the more expensive and better filter.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Год назад +2

      Thanks for the suggestion!

    • @Technie87
      @Technie87 Месяц назад

      Be careful with that as it is decreasing your overall flow/ increasing air friction.

  • @sunbrookheath
    @sunbrookheath Год назад +5

    My blower motor is variable speed and I use the 1 inch Filtrete 1900 which is a merv 13. I schedule replacement every 3 months, sometimes sooner if we are in dust-storm or forest fire season in the southwest USA

    • @jakelloyd3512
      @jakelloyd3512 2 месяца назад

      I purchase the same filter from lowes online. 20 percent discount if you order 4 at a time .

    • @matf4505
      @matf4505 28 дней назад

      It's a Merv 12 at best

  • @blackrain6ft5
    @blackrain6ft5 2 месяца назад

    Best video by far and I learned a ton from it.❤❤❤❤

  • @John-xk2ud
    @John-xk2ud Год назад +6

    Have been using the same washable filters (3 total for 2 HVAC systems) that I purchased from Home Depot for 26 years. Believe they are Merv 8. I wash them at least before each summer or winter season and more if necessary.

    • @TH-eb5ro
      @TH-eb5ro 10 месяцев назад +5

      I used that type for many years in a couple locations and the frame finally gave out. I changed to a washable one in an aluminum frame and have had it for about 10 years now. We wash it monthly.

  • @LScofield1
    @LScofield1 Год назад +1

    I appreciate your videos ... I'm learning a lot. Thanks!

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Год назад

      Of course! Happy to share the knowledge I do have haha

  • @bobanderson1727
    @bobanderson1727 11 дней назад

    Hey, thanx. You answered all of my Merv Rating questions.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  10 дней назад

      You got it bro! 🙌🏼

  • @imgadgetmanjim
    @imgadgetmanjim 9 дней назад

    I had installed new blower motor and changed to higher merv filters. Had to downgrade due to short cycling. Then had to go to least restricted filter over time so then had to remove all filtering. Seemed like system was getting weaker despite me opening another return. Just changed my furnace and ac znd going to try merv 8-11. Thank you.

  • @pumpupjam9648
    @pumpupjam9648 Месяц назад +1

    During COVID Merv 11, then to a 13. Now back to a charcoal Merv 8. Furnace running very well!

    • @pinkfreud62
      @pinkfreud62 22 дня назад

      My furnace is like 35 yrs old & runs great, but inefficient. I'm gonna drop to low merv. It's only me living in my 862 qs home with a cat so I think a low merv will be OK. But I'll be checking into a new furnace some day.

  • @ronie1337
    @ronie1337 5 месяцев назад

    BTW, thanks for the videos. You do a great job!

  • @paull2089
    @paull2089 Год назад

    Super info, thanks

  • @raymondfrato367
    @raymondfrato367 Год назад +1

    While you are on the subject of filtration, could you do a video on air ionization devices that can be added to your air handler. I am at a loss as to which one to get. I would like a commercial grade device not one of the toys sold online. Thank you for all the great info you produce.

  • @brianw6645
    @brianw6645 5 месяцев назад +1

    What are your thoughts on electrostatic washable air filters for the furnace? Is this something we should avoid, or do you recommend them? Thanks.

  • @antoniorengifo1447
    @antoniorengifo1447 2 месяца назад

    Thank you, very good content 👍

  • @notme22
    @notme22 9 месяцев назад +2

    A 4 inch and a 5 inch filter are actually both 4.375 thick. The difference is a “5 inch” filter has about 4 times the amount of pleats than a 4 inch filter. A 5 inch MERV 16 filter has about 0.101”WP drop where a 4 inch MERV 16 has about 0.17”WP drop, both at about 690cfm

  • @360MIX
    @360MIX Месяц назад +1

    I've been using 3M filters for years.. as the media has more pleats (less restriction with quality filtering) compared to the cheaper filters.. The cheap filters deform quickly and you need to replace them more often. only downfall is that the 3M filters are expensive... and have gone up 15% or more in the past 2 years....

  • @Shanfull
    @Shanfull 3 месяца назад

    Thanks! Very helpful..

  • @kdw75
    @kdw75 5 месяцев назад +2

    We have a tremendous amount of dust in our basement and we live in a 5 year old house. We live in a residential neighborhood and the walls are well sealed and we run a 5" thick Merv 13 filter. I just can't figure out where all the dust comes from. We don't even wear shoes in the house or open the windows.

    • @kdw75
      @kdw75 3 месяца назад +1

      We have 3 cats, so I am hearing from other places, that they are a major source of dust.

  • @XXMETAL4LIF3XX
    @XXMETAL4LIF3XX Год назад +2

    My system uses the 4 inch wide ones. I like the merv 12 filtrete

  • @HypocriticYT
    @HypocriticYT 2 дня назад

    I found filters that removed a high percentage of dust allow more heat up the chimney costing you much more in oil or gas

  • @ClickaNerd
    @ClickaNerd 4 месяца назад

    I elected a merv 10 2 inch 16x20 filter by glasgow based on your video. I put in a new 3 ton system with a quality upflow filter base.. Do you think it will be too restrictive on an air handler that handles AC only no heating in Texas?

  • @stevenelster
    @stevenelster 7 месяцев назад

    I need to calculate what my furnace can handle when it comes to the MERV rating. The furnace is a Carrier Infinity Model: 58CVA135-22 with ESP of .5 and KPa 125. Is there a calculator that helps with that?

  • @nolannsautodetail5468
    @nolannsautodetail5468 11 месяцев назад

    What is best to use I found a merv 2 ezflow and a 3m merv 5. Any recommendation thank you in advance

  • @MichaelR58
    @MichaelR58 Год назад

    Good video , thanks for sharing , God bless !

  • @strpops28baking
    @strpops28baking 8 месяцев назад

    question, I have asthma so I installed an air scrubber to my HVAC unit and my AC guy said the Filtrete Merv 12 MPR1500 is too much for my AC unit. I also find that only the HVAC closet air seems super fresh and clean, so I contacted AERIS my air scrubber company to ask about it and was told my filter was too high and i shouldnt go above MERV 10-11 MPR 1200. The problem I have is that this very expensive MERV 11 Filtrete MERV 11 is only lasting one month and I have a sky high electric bill and a previous video said the filter could be the culprit, my question is since i have an air scrbber on my unit and have asthma what filter would you recommend? I like filtrete brand but open to suggestions. The Filtrete MERV 11 now has the odor blooking in it, is this also affecting the AC unit, and I need it since I have an air scrubber, I like the MERV 11 with out the odor blocking but hard to find anymore.

  • @simonac688.
    @simonac688. Год назад

    well done yong Man 👍

  • @toddholmes2305
    @toddholmes2305 Год назад +7

    I had a MERV11 filter in my system and it overheated. I have a humidifier upstream of the filter and I suspect that the addition of moisture to a tightly woven filter caused too much restriction.

    • @tre-ou5gt
      @tre-ou5gt Год назад +2

      Hey Todd. How long did you have your filter installed before you noticed it overheating?

  • @MCMPACT
    @MCMPACT Год назад +5

    This is a very informative video. Thank you for posting it. I personally recommend to homeowners and tenants to use a stand alone filtration device, and a lower Merv rating filter for their system. A high quality air purifier does a much better job cleaning the air, and the lower rates filter strains and restricts hvac equipment less. If the filter is changed religiously with this combination, it leads to less problems in the long run.

    • @JoshuaDHarvey
      @JoshuaDHarvey Год назад +1

      Great advice thanks

    • @ayo9057
      @ayo9057 11 месяцев назад

      Do lower Merv ratings save on electric with less restriction?

  • @Fishhunter007
    @Fishhunter007 9 месяцев назад +1

    What about glassfloss filters?
    Thanks

  • @ky0611
    @ky0611 9 месяцев назад +1

    I use ez flow fiberglass ones during summer

  • @Saddlebum042
    @Saddlebum042 Год назад +1

    What happened to the popular Filtrete electrostatic filter?

  • @artat777
    @artat777 6 дней назад

    Question I’m having issues with severe pet dander. Which filter should I be using in our home

  • @trucle1859
    @trucle1859 Год назад

    Thank you so much

  • @JOhnnnnny611
    @JOhnnnnny611 12 дней назад

    Hi, would a merv rating of 12 on a 1 inch filter be as restrictive in airflow as a merv rating of 12 on a 4 inch air filter? Reason I ask is because I am using a merv rating 12 4 inch filter and last summer my AC was not able to keep up. once it got hotter than 93 degrees outside my AC would fall behind and no longer stay at 75 degrees (ended up getting to like 81 degrees inside). I was thinking of putting 1 inch thick filter in to replace the 4 inch thick filter for better airflow, is this thought process incorrect?

  • @user-lk5iu7eg3g
    @user-lk5iu7eg3g 11 дней назад

    Hi
    I wanted to ask what could happen if I go from a fiberglass filter to a MERV 8 filter. Will it greatly affect my ac’s performance. I’m just looking to get a good filter that can offer good benefits, but not be so hard on my ac unit

  • @bluesdirt6555
    @bluesdirt6555 4 месяца назад

    I have an Aprilaire model 2200 and hate it ! It just took me 45 minutes to change it. Is there a way to convert it to a slide in style ?

  • @ironfistdave8571
    @ironfistdave8571 Год назад +2

    Excellent video I just found Out that my furnace doesn't running with a Mask on L.O.L 🤙🏽

  • @1thinkhealthy
    @1thinkhealthy Год назад +1

    Great video. Would a thicker filter allow more airflow than a thinner one of the same Merv rating?

    • @JK-hd2zb
      @JK-hd2zb Год назад +2

      Yes, because it has much more surface area

  • @ZAPPED916
    @ZAPPED916 7 месяцев назад

    Thank you

  • @forteensixtynine257
    @forteensixtynine257 23 дня назад

    Good Knowledge Video

  • @MB-np2ur
    @MB-np2ur 10 месяцев назад

    I have 4 spots for filters in my home, one seems to do nothing, it is never dirty. Does someone know what that would be for?

  • @blowingsnow4fun
    @blowingsnow4fun Год назад

    Excellent video…very informative. Will your blower last longer with a lower number merv filter as it doesn’t have to work as long. How long does the average blower last these days.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Год назад +1

      Yes the blower will last longer but by how much longer no one can say. They generally last about 10 years or so. Ironically the warranty is 10 years so that’s probably why 🤣

    • @blowingsnow4fun
      @blowingsnow4fun Год назад +1

      Thanks for the info. Have you done a video on fall preventative maintenance for a furnace, and spring for an AC unit. I have always had a HVAC tech in every other year for a tune up, and I general vacuum the furnace out, and check the drain hose function. I check the drain line for the AC, and clean the outside unit out with the hose.

  • @spiralstares
    @spiralstares Год назад

    Our home has two filters, a 1” deep filter in a ceiling air return vent and a thicker filter just before the furnace in the attic. We have heard conflicting info on if both are needed, but have been using just the 1” filter since it is more easily accessed. Do additional filters improve the MERV rating?

    • @samholets4414
      @samholets4414 Год назад

      No because you are using two one inch filters of the same merv, so basically a two inch filter. And the thickness doesn’t effect merv

  • @Itsme-vo4fx
    @Itsme-vo4fx 2 месяца назад

    Why do some filters show a large number such as 1900 instead of a standard MERV number?
    Is there a chart available somewhere that will convert those large numbers to MERVE numbers?
    I refuse to purchase those filters, simply because I don’t know what MERV number I would be installing in my furnace.

  • @KPHVAC
    @KPHVAC 5 дней назад

    If you only have one return air grill that's a major red flag!! Get your static pressure tested before upgrading to a nicer filter. In my area about 90% of homes have restricted airflow due to a drastically undersized return air duct and grill. If your static pressure is over 0.50 total it is a major problem that needs to be fixed!

  • @DSNCB919
    @DSNCB919 3 месяца назад

    So if i have been using merv 11 i cant use merv 12 same size?

  • @mplscarsales6652
    @mplscarsales6652 Год назад +1

    Man I used a high quality filter and it put the flame out on my furnace not enough airflow freaked out for a minute then I tried putting back in the cheap green kind in and it solved my problem but doesn’t
    Catch anything compared to the good filters . So cheap ones I have heat cheap it is lol Project farm did a filter test as well to which ones provide the best airflow but still catch stuff . Thanks for your info

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Год назад

      Love project farm! You might have to go middle of the road like merv8 for your setup, or adjust your fan speed up

    • @MCMPACT
      @MCMPACT Год назад +2

      I would recommend an air purifier that operates independently from the system, and a lower rated filter for your system. The primary and most important purpose of the HVAC filter is to protect the equipment.

  • @DiacriticalOne
    @DiacriticalOne Год назад +1

    This was great. I need a MERV 11 due to allergies. What I really need is a new return housing and I can't find one online. The current opening fits 24x36x1 filters, but the outside is beat up and I'd like to go to a thicker filter to allow more airflow while maintaining the filtration.. What's a good source for something like that?

    • @fishlanding
      @fishlanding Год назад +2

      go with some stand alone air purifiers around your home..... helps alot

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Год назад +1

      24x36 is massive! I’ve never seen one that big. I have a video on installing a new filter rack on my system. Maybe that will give you some ideas. If you’d like remote assistance with tackling this, check out Patreon.com/diyhvacguy where we can walk you through how to get that retrofitted! Cheers

  • @user-hx6zq1wd8p
    @user-hx6zq1wd8p Месяц назад

    Thank you for this video!!! My house has a 1" filter at the return spot in the house and also a 4" filter to go in the blower located in my attic. I was told to not put a filter in both locations so that i wouldn't over stress the system. So i only have been using a filter at the return vent in the house and no filter inside the blower. What are your thoughts? Should i be filtering both locations or just one? If just one, which location would you suggest? I usually go with a MERV 8, but literally yesterday bought a 16x20x1 MERV 11 for the return.

    • @AGreedyTree
      @AGreedyTree 7 дней назад +1

      You should put the 4" filter at the bower and leave the returns empty.

  • @mattflanagan8110
    @mattflanagan8110 Месяц назад

    I bought a new home nad the builder used 20x20x3 Zephyr filter system. Minimum $50.00 each. regular 20x20 won't fit. Any suggestions?

  • @bsachs00
    @bsachs00 9 месяцев назад

    We have our blower fan set to on, will that make a difference in how often we change our filters? Currently changing every month with the MERV 5.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  9 месяцев назад +1

      Yes, you constantly have air moving across it so it’s going to lessen the time between changes for sure.

  • @MrDeviousdom
    @MrDeviousdom 18 дней назад

    When choosing a filter, there is simply one requirement that needs to be met, that is the static pressure. If your home is like most and has less than 400 square inches of filter space per ton, you should never consider using pleated filters as your static pressure will be too high and you can damage your ECM blower motor and WILL lower efficiency.
    Since this is the case in most homes and most do not want to go through the expense of adding additional returns, stick with the cheap fiberglass filters.
    Your system will not only run more efficiently, it will be quieter.
    If you have a dust problem in your home, get yourself an air scrubber, don't rely on your AC system to do the processing for you.

  • @davidstengel3699
    @davidstengel3699 4 месяца назад

    You didn't talk about smoke. I do have allergies, we have a dog, and we heat with wood and can have some smoke and smell... from your video, I'm thinking Filterbuy, Merv 11. What do you think? (Air Bear, 20x25x5)

  • @terminalvelocity4858
    @terminalvelocity4858 11 месяцев назад +1

    My old furnace has used a 16x24x1 but I have trouble finding them, can I use a 16x25x1 instead?

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  11 месяцев назад

      Filterbuy sells odd sizes like 16x24x1 no problem. A 16x25x1 probably won’t fit.
      Here’s a link for filterbuy. They have great discounts when you buy them in bulk 👍🏼
      filterbuy.com/qYEa1J0knccjlwekk7Hc/

  • @olie99
    @olie99 Год назад +1

    Confused, used to use higher numbers nerve rating until my hvac company said they would suggest not going above a 8??

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Год назад

      Depends on their reasoning. If they said the higher ones were too restrictive that’s one thing but I couldn’t tell you without that piece of info.

  • @wid3908
    @wid3908 Год назад

    Home Depot has their own rating for filters how does it compare to merv

  • @leo2o915
    @leo2o915 Год назад

    Trying to find a good merv 11 for my house which one from filter buy you recommend?

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Год назад

      I though there was only one merv 11? Any of them will do good. If you have allergies I’d go with the black one.

  • @dlg5485
    @dlg5485 Год назад +6

    The problem is that cheap modern furnaces have weak blowers that can't handle good filters. I'm use merv 13 filter in my furnace, but it's only a 1 inch. I think merv 13 should be the standard, but everything is about cost in America so we cheat our own health to save a buck or 2.

    • @javaman2883
      @javaman2883 9 месяцев назад +3

      Carrier and some other AC manufacturers have been recommending MERV 8 filters for at least a few years. The HVAC guys will stay stuck on cheap filters for a while, in part because cheap filters mean they get paid to clean the HVAC coils and heat exchangers.

    • @livingaboard
      @livingaboard 8 месяцев назад +1

      No. It’s that the system has to be designed for a Merv 13. If you want to spend the money then you can get a return v bank filter plenum so that you can use merv 13 filters

    • @dlg5485
      @dlg5485 8 месяцев назад

      @@livingaboard The thing that actually works and should be the standard always costs more money doesn't it? Funny how that works.

  • @HobbyOrganist
    @HobbyOrganist Год назад +1

    I installed my new furnace with a new filter rack that will accept two 1" filters, so I have the good MERV 8 filter on the inside slot and the cheap type on the outer slot as a pre-filter to catch larger stuff, lint, dog hair etc and helps keep the better filter behind it cleaner longer.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Год назад +1

      Smart! Thanks for sharing

    • @Bwnasty7
      @Bwnasty7 9 месяцев назад +1

      This was originally what I had planned when I got a new AC unit and the technician didn’t recommend because of airflow. Now I’m learning more on lowering my MERV 13 (inside filter) to an 8 and considering a cheap outer.
      What MERV is your outer filter? I’m assuming airflow is better with those two than a MERV13 one inside ?

  • @wildbill9919
    @wildbill9919 Год назад

    l'm going to make a filter with a box fan and 20x20x2 filter to reduce dust in the house. Will a MERV 10 be good or should l go higher?

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Год назад

      Totally up to you. I run merv11 in my home but a lot of folks run merv 8.

    • @meredethezzard5100
      @meredethezzard5100 7 месяцев назад

      13 merv

  • @vincentrobinette1507
    @vincentrobinette1507 3 месяца назад

    A higher MERV rating doesn't necessarily need to be more restrictive. By increasing the number of pleats, it's possible to double the media area in a given frame size. I'm noticing you're MERV 8 filters have 12 pleats. If the MERV 11 could have 20 evenly spaced pleats, or, a MERV 13 had 35 pleats, the restriction and longevity would be about the same. The difference would be price. A 40 pleat HEPA filter could allow just as much airflow, but now, you're looking at $130.00, as opposed to $13.00 for a passable MERV 8. (in the frame sizes shown in this video)

  • @samholets4414
    @samholets4414 Год назад +1

    Good vid

  • @christopherhaak9824
    @christopherhaak9824 Год назад +4

    High quality high Merv filters have the same or even less pressure drop across the filter as compared to a cheap moderate Merv filter. They have much more actual media surface area. For $50, a home owner can purchase a digital manometer and measure their pressure drop.

    • @blackrifle6736
      @blackrifle6736 11 месяцев назад

      *Dyer Instruments' differential manometers are superb for this application. Amazon carries them. Cheers!*

    • @aaronj08ar
      @aaronj08ar 9 месяцев назад

      Wrong

    • @christopherhaak9824
      @christopherhaak9824 4 месяца назад

      Not wrong. Pressure drop vs face velocity curves are measured and published for filters, they have to be by law in CA. You can look them up.

  • @jamesm568
    @jamesm568 Год назад

    Hell, I usually buy the charcoal/carbon medium and use it as an air pre-filter.

  • @DrummerDanVa
    @DrummerDanVa 3 месяца назад

    Filterbuy has too small sizes compared to what the size says it is. I bought a 14x24 and it was so much smaller that I was afraid it would get sucked into my HVAC system. The filter seemed fine EXCEPT for size. Most filters are slightly smaller than the advertized size but the Filterbuy filters are much smaller in comparison.

  • @davidtheologou9630
    @davidtheologou9630 2 месяца назад

    To confirm overall speaking - if you dont have any health issues would you say more so merv 8 or 11

  • @jamesphillips2285
    @jamesphillips2285 4 месяца назад

    It appears you may have linked the wrong video in the end-card. It show how to make a transition from the top of the furnace to the ductwork. Not how to get an extra 3 inches beside the furnace to accommodate a larger filter.

  • @SS2369
    @SS2369 Год назад +1

    Based on all of my research which was extensive, the average home should use a Merv 8 -12 filter. I replace every 33 days with a reminder on my phone.

  • @milogger7556
    @milogger7556 Год назад

    Do you ever measure differential pressure across the filter? Usually, filters are considered "loaded" at 1" W.C. If you're measuring the pressure, you can swap filters at 1" W.C. and in theory not hurt your fan motor with too great of static pressure.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Год назад

      Yes that’s the real way to check, but a homeowner could pop one in and if they don’t have any codes pop up they’re probably good to go 👍🏼

    • @milogger7556
      @milogger7556 Год назад

      @@diyhvacguy Thank you. I put a magnehelic gage on my filter box so that I can pay attention more to the "strain" that's on the motor. My filter box has space for a 4" element and I wanted to make sure I didn't put unnecessary stress on the unit. I'm enjoying your videos, thank you!

    • @rodgraff1782
      @rodgraff1782 Год назад

      Average maximum total static pressure of a residential furnace is .5”. That’s only .25” return and .25” supply. So how would one be able to wait until 1” to change a filter?

    • @milogger7556
      @milogger7556 Год назад

      @@rodgraff1782 I'm going off my days of paint booths and EPA filter measuring. When I was doing that, 1" for the filter was the time to change and records were kept. I'm assuming it's the same for a furnace (perhaps not and excuse a new homeowner). When I contacted 3M, they stated for the Filtrete filters, 0.75" is when they would change them. In my setup, I'm measuring 12 inches in front of the filter and 12 inches after the filter. I'm using probes and have them turned into the air stream. I'm ready to be corrected if I'm doing something wrong.

    • @rodgraff1782
      @rodgraff1782 Год назад

      @@milogger7556 Something is wrong with the way you are measuring, or the instruments that you are using. There is no way a residential furnace could have 12”WG on the return. Could it actually be .12”? You would not want a probe that is facing into the airflow, as that would be measuring velocity also. I don’t know what type instrument you are using. I use magnahelic gauges, or incline manometers. Try just using a fitting that is flush with the inside of the duct, and see what that reads.

  • @Boodieman72
    @Boodieman72 Год назад +2

    I changed to a higher MERV rating and the blower couldn't pull the air through.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  Год назад

      Yea it happens a lot. Did you try having the fan speed adjusted?

    • @Boodieman72
      @Boodieman72 Год назад

      @@diyhvacguy No, the local HVAC company came and switched it out for a lesser one that worked.

  • @bigshooter5912
    @bigshooter5912 2 месяца назад +1

    My Merv 8 4” filter turns into a Merv 13 after about a year of use 😂

  • @search_eternal
    @search_eternal Год назад +3

    I use a 3M 16x25x4 filter and change it every January 1st. The Project Farm YT channel has a great video where he tests 14 different filters. ruclips.net/video/RkjRKIRva58/видео.html

  • @ronie1337
    @ronie1337 5 месяцев назад

    In my opinion you should not be trying to use your Air Conditioner as an "Air Purifier" system. Your system was designed to flow so many CFM's across the evaporator coil depending what size (in tons) and increasing the MERV filter rating will have a negative effect on the indoor and outdoor units. Too large Merv rating may even cause your coil to freeze up because of the low air flow. If you want to purify your home air then buy a standalone Air Purifying unit. Stick with the air filter designed for your A/C system.

  • @alexwastaken
    @alexwastaken Год назад

    Lennox has a merv 16

    • @MCMPACT
      @MCMPACT Год назад +1

      Might as well use cardboard. 😎

  • @hawghawg381
    @hawghawg381 9 дней назад

    HVAC guy told me to use the cheap green one.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  8 дней назад

      Those do next to nothing, basically just protecting your equipment, definitely not your lungs. I’d get a pleated merv8 minimum 👍🏼

  • @gregpeterson6161
    @gregpeterson6161 3 месяца назад

    I use no air filter.. . Great air flow!

  • @mr.bianchirider8126
    @mr.bianchirider8126 7 месяцев назад +1

    Why is it that everyone on RUclips tells me that whatever I'm doing, I'm doing it wrong.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  7 месяцев назад

      What are you doing wrong?

    • @MMAVoodoo
      @MMAVoodoo 6 месяцев назад

      It's clickbait titling, and it seems like it worked

  • @adamsteele6148
    @adamsteele6148 11 дней назад

    Use a merv 5 and replace once a month it's really not that complicated

  • @bigga5406
    @bigga5406 11 месяцев назад +1

    I can’t believe he totally skipped MERV 3. All of the HVAC pros I talk to use the cheapest and replace them once a month. Allows the HVAC to work ALOT less harder and especially if you don’t have any health concerns, no pets, no smoking etc.

    • @diyhvacguy
      @diyhvacguy  11 месяцев назад +3

      Yea and hardly filter your air at all. So much junk passes through a merv 3 lol

    • @javaman2883
      @javaman2883 9 месяцев назад

      Those MERV 3 filters allow a lot more dust into the duct and the furnace heat exchanger or AC evap coils, those get dirty quickly, hence you need the HVAC guy to come out every year to take the system apart to clean those. That is why HVAC peple want cheap filters in the system, so they can clean the system. If you keep MERV 8 filters in the system, the coils won't get dirty for many years.

    • @livingaboard
      @livingaboard 8 месяцев назад

      I have a merv 8, 2 inch that I change about every two years. I inspect it regularly and blow off dust as needed but it doesn’t really get dirty for a while

  • @23x31
    @23x31 Год назад

    And I thought it was named after Merv Griffin. Yes......I'm old.

  • @bruceelias2732
    @bruceelias2732 Год назад

    Lower merv dood will make your system "Strain" much less

  • @jeffeyman5535
    @jeffeyman5535 4 дня назад

    Mervalous