When did A/C air filters get so dang expensive?

When they switched to the pleated paper filters. You can still get the old style fiberglass ones at any local hardware store.

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are so much more than just 10 years ago.

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10 years ago - well yeah

Are you referring to 1 inch thick return air grill filters? If so, low MERV 4 spun fiberglass filters or low MERV 4 pleated filters made by Flanders only cost between $3-4 each - seems like I’ve been paying that amount for some time. If you are using 1 inch thick high MERV filters, MERV 12 from Filtrete for example, you are restricting airflow to your HVAC - which is not good for the system. The purpose of 1 inch filter thick filters is to protect the HVAC equipment - not improve indoor air quality (IAQ).

High MERV 5-inch thick pleated or media cabinet filters are different - they can protect the HVAC equipment and improve IAQ with minimal restriction of return air flow.

Wait until you need the 4 inch thick ones.

Look up electrostatic washable filters. Our house came with them.

Costco just started carrying Kirkland brand filters. High quality. $21 for 4 filters.

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f you are using 1 inch thick high MERV filters, MERV 12 from Filtrete for example, you are restricting airflow to your HVAC - which is not good for the system. The purpose of 1 inch filter thick filters is to protect the HVAC equipment - not improve indoor air quality (IAQ).

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Every a/c guy i've talked to says the opposite. Modern a/c units have more than enough power to run a MERV 12 return duct filter, and they absolutely reduce indoor pollutants. I think this an outdated line of thinking (if it ever was true).

I buy Nordicpure filters from amazon by the 6 pack. I think they work out to about $6/filter for a higher MERV (I think i use 9 or 10). Amazon also has their own brand filters for about same price, but I've always been pleased with the nordic pures. The filters at big box stores are a rip off ($10/filter and up generally)

My whole house has allergies, otherwise I'd run MERV 7 or 8.

K&N makes home filters now. I bought two sets. I rinse them with water about every 90 days. They work great and save a ton of money.

Easier and less expensive to buy online. I’ve been using Filter Buy for several years.

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