Most furnace manufacturers state in their manual that a filter upstream of the furnace is required. Today, a MERV 8 efficiency rated filter is typically the lowest efficiency filter acceptable under the conditions of the warranty. You should check your manual or with your HVAC contractor about the minimum requirements to keep your warranty valid.

If you are looking to reduce the maintenance on your HVAC system, here are some tips to consider:

• If your system uses one inch disposable filters, consider upgrading to a filter unit that takes a larger filter. Depending on your duct size and airflow requirements, systems that use three and five inch filters are readily available. Your filter change schedule may increase from monthly up to yearly by simply changing your filter system.
• If you already use a three inch or five inch filter, you may consider increasing the efficiency of your filter. Change from a MERV 8 to MERV 11. Less dust will affect your furnace burners, keeping them cleaner.
• Clean the grills in your home. When you vacuum your floors, vacuum the grills. Dust and lint can build up. When it dislodges from the grill and caught by your furnace filter, it can prematurely plug up your filter causing more frequent filter changes.
• Have your ductwork cleaned periodically. Dust built-up in your ductwork can get to the filter, causing premature plugging of your filter and more frequent filter changes.
• Vacuum and dust your home regularly. Although the whole-home filter system on your furnace and air conditioner can remove the dust in the air, collecting the dust and dirt before it gets to your furnace filter can extend the life of the filter.

Contact your local Trion Dealer today. Ask how a Trion Air Bear filter system or Air Bear replacement filter will reduce your maintenance time and cost. Also ask them about their preventative maintenance and routine maintenance programs.