New Filter to replace 1 inch filters...Input please.

[Bentonville]

I saw these HDR 4 1/2 inch deep pleated filters just out by Flanders when I was in Lowes buying the Energy Aire 20xx20x1 filters for my Trane 3 1/2 ton system dual fuel. I have been following the advice of people on this forum using a low merv rating but high enough to cut down on the dust in my air/house. The regular filters I have been using are rated 7. One person recommended I use the green Natural Aire from Home Depot, rated 8. I am using both. I have three returns. Do you think these new deep filters that fit into the same compartment as the regular filters would be advantageous OR would they put too much strain on my system.
As a check, do you think what I have been using is too much strain on my system as is? Two 20x20x1 returns and one 10X20X1.

http://flandersfilters.com/products/air-cleaners/

[dan sw fl]

I saw these HDR 4 1/2 inch deep pleated filters just out by Flanders when I was in Lowes buying the Energy Aire 20xx20x1 filters for my Trane 3 1/2 ton system dual fuel. I have been following the advice of people on this forum using a low merv rating but high enough to cut down on the dust in my air/house. The regular filters I have been using are rated 7. One person recommended I use the green Natural Aire from Home Depot, rated 8. I am using both. I have three returns. Do you think these new deep filters that fit into the same compartment as the regular filters would be advantageous OR would they put too much strain on my system.
As a check, do you think what I have been using is too much strain on my system as is? Two 20x20x1 returns and one 10X20X1.

http://flandersfilters.com/products/air-cleaners/

1000 square inches ( ~ 7 square feet) of 1" filter is better than most. I would not use more than MERV 7 FOR 1".
3.5 TON =~ 1,400 CFM or 1,400 CFM/ 7 Sq Ft = 200 FPM.

Recommended < 300 FPM

4" is a huge increase in filter area AND would be VERY Little pressure drop ( ... significantly decreasing strain, in your terms).
MERV 8 could be used.

Use of the 4" filter would allow you to change once a year.
You could Vacuum every other month.

[energy_rater_La]

x2 on the media filter. once ducts & returns are sealed up
putting a better filter is the next step. good investment IMO.
I recommend media filters to all my clients.

best of luck

[Bentonville]

Is the Media Filter the new HDR by Flanders which is pleated and 4 1/2 inches thick. It just pushes into the normal grill where the 1 inch filter normally fits. Thanks a lot for the input. A lot of nice folks here!

[energy_rater_La]

difference between locating media filter in filter grill vs at the blower...none that I know of.
if there is...someone will let us know!

as for the uv light..I think a better use of $$ & time is to mastic seal ducts & seal
return air tight.
uv lights work..as long as they can reach mold.

attached is a pic of a supply plenum prior to changing it out.
note minimum of mold where uv light shines & max of mold
where it doesn't. the problem here was that take offs for ducts
& plenum connection to equipment wasn't very well sealed.
moisture (condensation)...food source(dirt from air leaks) = mold.
changed plenum(s) & most of flex duct on this job.

[dan sw fl]

What's the difference with the filter at the Return Air grill?

NOT Much, but the return air Duct IS Cleaner.