Review on 🌬️ Filtrete Ultimate Allergen Reduction All Over by Ralph Gerry

About ten years ago we went for a 1900 rating in the 3m Filtrete line, when they were still classified as "Absolute Allergen" were designated. About five years ago, the marketing branding was called "Healthy Lifestyle" with the same rating of 1900. The product we just received carries on that brand, but we've noticed a definite drop in quality. All three filter versions released in 2009 were made in Mexico. Our earliest example had full color coding, thick protective paper and each filter in a pack of six was individually sealed in cling film. Although the packaging is thrown away, this was the clue that made me check the quality of the filter myself. In fact, five years ago they started using thinner cardboard around the paper filter media frame and the packaging was less colorful and no longer had the protective inner paper underneath the outer cling film. The latest sample that just arrived has hard paper as the outer frame, making the whole filter appear more fragile. The pack of six filters is no longer individually wrapped, just a clear outer film and no protective paper between it and the filter paper (this prevents the crepe paper from collapsing under the pressure of the pack). Next time we install one of these latest filters, if the air handling unit pressure bends, deforms or otherwise causes a leak around the crepe paper, we will complain and refund the balance. For the money I expect consistent quality.