Air Filters - Always looking for advice (price/MERV value/etc)

[Andy Basler]

Hey folks,

I have about 10 houses, some with multiiple HVAC units. .....AND I HATE paying retail for anything.

I like to keep my filters clean, good for HVAC and several other reasons.  I am responsible for the air filters, that's out of scope for this discussion ;) (don't trust tenants).

I've been ordering online. I just used factorydirectfilters. They seem to be a decent deal, big order, free shipping, had all the sizes except for one (14x13x1).  I notice amazon was pretty close.  I went with MERV 11, might be a little high for a rental.

Looking for experience/advice. 

Should I go lower MERV?

Better options/prices out there?

- Re-useable frames and just buy the maerial and cut them?

Change about every six months? (I'm renting to students, typically no pets)

Other thoughts?

Thanks in advance!!