Thanks folks! I figured a second pre-filter for $5-6 would be a good way to extend the life of the $26 cartridge. I am sure I can wash the original foam many times but if (when) it gets damaged it would be nice to have a spare. That said I found the replacement cartridge with foam for $16.99 delivered on evilbay. It is a B&S filter not after market so I may put it in stock for sometime down the road. Ken

For me, electronic filters are the only way to go. The amount of ozone they produce and energy used is negligible. They allow the use of a lower MERV filter while maintaining a low static pressure. The actual electrostatic process then increases the MERV rating of any filter by over 50%. They also require much less maintenance than your typical MERV 15-16 filter.

Ozone is created by electronic air cleaners similar to lightening in a rain storm. Usually it is more prevalent in higher humidity conditions. Check the RH, to see if it is too high due to season, high humidifier setting or in damp basement. Many EAC's have a switch or jumper on the board that can be moved or snipped to reduce this from happening however, it is accomplished by lowering plate and field voltages, thus reducing efficiency.

Be careful with the humidity issue and the growth of mold/dust mites if you have allergens to them. They recommend you keep your humidity level around or under 40% so be mindful of not creating another problem when you humidify your whole home. Think insted of using a small humidifier in your bedroom or where you spend the majority of your time and keep a watch on the level of humidity as it seems you are doing now. The whole home electronic air cleaner is a good investment for people with allergies I have been told. I believed it and bought the Trane Clean Air Effects unit but really don't see the benefits for my son personally. I would have never bought it had I known, and certainly won't recommend it now because of the fact it produces Ozone! For anyone who has problems breathing or suffers from any type of lung issue anything that ionizes or produces ozone in any form or fashion should be avoided. The lied to me and told me it did not when I bought it and once I found out it did it was too late. The allergy doctor I work with told me the benefits may outweigh the risk since it does produce a very small amount so I am not panicking anymore. There is also a setting to lower the amount of ozone it produces and we did set it at the lowest amount. Anyway enough of that there are several nice products out there Lenox makes one, and there are plenty more out there so DO YOUR HOMEWORK before you buy and don't make the same mistake I did. Best of luck!