2" furnace filter vs. 1"?

[jclancy]

In my new furnace bid, my contractor is recommending I go with a custom 2" furnace filter, which I buy through him. My existing furnace only uses a 1", and I like being able to run out to Home Depot, etc. and pick up new ones when I forget.

He says 2" provides a lot more relief for allergens, is a better choice if there's kids in the house with respiratory conditions (I have two little kids), etc., etc. He could be right, for all I know, but I don't want to get stuck having to buy my filters through one place.

Are 2" filters now typical, are they worth it, and is what he's saying true?

Thanks!

[key]

look into an electrostatic filter, you wash and replace, very good performance.. checkout cimatec.com

[jclancy]

To be honest, I've read a lot of negative things about them, and this project is already far over budget, so I really can't even start to think about another cost.

[Senior Tech]

Spacegard is, in my opinion, one of the best. Some 2" filters also have the same thickness of element as those with a 1" filter so make sure this is not the case with the one your contractor wants to install. http://www.aprilaire.com/

[dan sw fl]

You can buy 2" from others.

I would choose that $40 enhancement
for the thicker filter rack.

http://www.airguard.com/pleated.html

[mayguy]

The 2" isn't going to help that much more than the 1"..

As for the electrostaic filters, look away.. They are nothing but trouble waiting to happen..

Go with the media filter system like April Air, or Honeywell.. Those filters can be found at home centers like Home Depot or dealers with no problem.