According to our HVAC engineers, using MERV 13 filters in the HVAC system is like corking the ducts. The filters would "add approximately .85 of static pressure to our heat pumps. This would more than double the static pressure and cause both undue strain on the motor and also keep the system from serving the required airflow." Our engineers had to abandon this credit in another LEED project. In short, it looks like a LEED requirement would result in reduced airflow, increased energy use, and potential damage to equipment. In addition, the building flushout wouldn\'t really "flush" anything with these filter installed. Have you ever run into this problem before? We\'re assuming we can\'t get a credit here, but we\'re using this free credit interpretation to bring this issue to the attention of the LEED board for the good of society. We\'d also welcome suggestions for a way around this issue whereby we can still get the credit.
Research, astute engineering and the right product choice can help achieve this credit with little energy penalty, although not necessarily on all projects. Filters are available that have an initial pressure drop of 0.3" static that can tolerate a 1" static buildup, at 2-inch and 4-inch thicknesses. Refer to green building (and other) product directories for possible leads. Applicable Internationally.