Originally Posted by Dave9
Even if it is a filter, why would it be a problem to wipe it clean if you get it clean, if it still seals if it needs to, and hasn't rusted out?
Used to be, it wasn't uncommon for furnaces to last 30 years, provided you cleaned them, lubed the motor bearings, and replaced each part in turn, and could either DIY or found an HVAC tech with reasonable rates so it seemed cost effective to keep repairing it.
That's more true today than ever. You can usually find parts on ebay or Amazon and DIY for a fraction of what a pro would charge you as long as you're able and safety minded. That era may soon be over with more complex and expensive electronic controls, thinner metal that rusts through faster. Then again, even 30 years ago the industry had mostly switched to using sealed, non-servicable motor bearings so if you wanted to lube them you have to take the motor apart. Fortunately that doesn't need to happen but once every 5 to 10 years as long as you don't wait till the bearings are chewing themselves up from running dry.
HVAC contractors are the problem. A new system is more profitable for them so that's what they sell. Also, normies don't wrench and shop purely on price.