Hi, We are in the process of having a new (production) home built in a subdivision here (central FL). The community has a Facebook page where a discussion started recently among homeowners regarding the use of more than one air return filter in the same system. More specifically, one at the ceiling return air grille, and a second filter inside the actual air handler. In my current 2013 home and in prior homes (all forced A/C with heat pump in FL), I have always just used one filter at the air return grille in the ceiling, although my current home does have a spot for one inside the air handler and our local technician who came out to do some regular maintenance did open it up to see if there was a filter in there. There wasn't and he did not suggest installing an additional one there.
At the time I didn't ask him about having multiple filters, but after reading this recent discussion online, it made me wonder if it was indeed possible, and also advisable, to have more than one filter installed at different locations in the same system. I have read/heard both arguments that extra filtration (or even just a smaller-micron filter medium) can put a strain on the air handler. I also read that the typical squirrel cage blower actually works *less* with restricted air inflow.
So, while I'm not trying to start a debate, I'm just wondering if there is a general concensus among experts: Do some residential A/C systems actually use two return filters at the same time (one at the grille and one in the air handler)?
Thanks!
At the time I didn't ask him about having multiple filters, but after reading this recent discussion online, it made me wonder if it was indeed possible, and also advisable, to have more than one filter installed at different locations in the same system. I have read/heard both arguments that extra filtration (or even just a smaller-micron filter medium) can put a strain on the air handler. I also read that the typical squirrel cage blower actually works *less* with restricted air inflow.
So, while I'm not trying to start a debate, I'm just wondering if there is a general concensus among experts: Do some residential A/C systems actually use two return filters at the same time (one at the grille and one in the air handler)?
Thanks!