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QUESTION:Our existing furnace filter is one of those 1" coarse plastic things, and
doesn't seem to be doing too good a job. I'd like to replace it with a pleated
3M filter, but I have a few questions.
First, the existing filter is 16x28, which is a non-standard size. What are my
options? Do I need to create a "custom" filter out of two smaller filters (or
one larger filter)? Can I put a 16x3 piece of sheet metal in there and use the
standard 16x25 filter, or will that reduce air flow too much?
Second, the existing filter just sort of sits horizontally in there. It's
supported on the bottom with a thin loop of coat-hanger-type wire, with
nothing really holding it firmly in place. Should I be concerned about this?
It seems like the air could flow right around the filter.
BTW, the furnace is a Carrier Super Saver, model 58SSB080. I think it's about
14 years old or so.
ANSWER: I also have the same type of furnace filter that Steve described and I have
a question. Is my furnace built to blow/draw air through the filter that
came with the furnace? Will replacing the filter with a cloth pleated type
restrict the amount of air that the furnace can send through? Will this
make my furnace inefficient? Unsafe?
Currently I wash the filters with a hose and let them dry in the sun.
After so many washings I throw it out and buy a new one from HomeDepot.
The seal around the filter is poor at best and I am sure a lot of air is
going around the filter. I would love to replace it with a disposable
pleated one if I knew it was safe.
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