Case Study: Supporting a Louisville School System for 15 Years

Client Overview

For more than 15 years, Precise Air Filter has partnered with a Louisville-based school system to support indoor air quality across its facilities. Over that time, the district has experienced growth, building upgrades, and large-scale renovations. Through each phase, Precise Air Filter has remained a trusted resource for filter management, system insight, and proactive maintenance support.

When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted school operations, the district acted quickly to improve indoor air quality and safely reopen classrooms. Precise Air Filter worked closely with leadership to transition from MERV 8 pleated filters to MERV 13 filters to increase filtration efficiency and help support a healthier learning environment.

The Challenge

During the pandemic, higher-efficiency MERV 13 filters were installed to improve air filtration performance. While effective at capturing smaller airborne particles, higher MERV ratings also increase airflow restriction. This can cause HVAC systems to work harder, especially in older equipment or buildings not designed for higher static pressure.

As conditions stabilized and long-term system performance became a priority, the district needed a solution that balanced air quality, equipment longevity, and operational efficiency.

At the same time, the school system entered a period of significant renovations. Facility leadership became increasingly hands-on in filter selection, system oversight, and maintenance coordination to ensure buildings remained clean and efficient throughout construction phases.

The Solution

Precise Air Filter worked closely with district leadership to evaluate system performance and make informed recommendations.

Filter Strategy

• Transitioned back to high-quality MERV 8 pleated filters in most applications to reduce airflow restriction and ease system strain.
• Continued to use MERV 13 filters where appropriate based on building needs and system capacity.
• Provided specialized filter recommendations for unique spaces such as locker rooms and science labs, where air quality demands may differ from standard classrooms.

All recommendations are made by certified filter specialists, primarily the company owners, who evaluate each space based on airflow requirements, occupancy, and usage.

Preventative Maintenance and Oversight

Precise Air Filter operates as more than just a filter supplier. The team acts as the eyes and ears of each HVAC unit.

During scheduled service visits, technicians monitor overall system condition and identify issues such as:

• Broken belts
• Frozen coils
• Excessive dirt buildup
• Airflow concerns

When issues are identified, the team either performs necessary replacements or provides maintenance recommendations to prevent larger system failures.

This proactive approach helps the district:

• Extend equipment lifespan
• Avoid costly emergency repairs
• Maintain consistent indoor air quality
• Keep classrooms comfortable for students and staff

Service Schedule

The district follows a strict quarterly replacement schedule, approximately every 90 days. This timing aligns with seasonal transitions and school breaks in the spring and summer.

The 90-day interval represents the maximum recommended duration between changes. Replacing filters too early increases unnecessary cost. Replacing them too late risks reduced airflow, added system strain, and compromised air quality. Precise Air Filter ensures changes occur at the optimal time to maintain peak performance.

Results

Through a 15-year partnership, Precise Air Filter has helped the school system:

• Maintain reliable indoor air quality across multiple facilities
• Navigate pandemic-related filtration upgrades
• Balance MERV efficiency with system performance
• Support large-scale renovations with expert oversight
• Reduce HVAC strain and extend equipment life
• Stay on schedule with preventative maintenance

Most importantly, the district has confidence that its filtration strategy supports both student health and long-term operational efficiency.

Why It Matters

School environments require consistency, reliability, and proactive care. Precise Air Filter understands that filtration is not just about replacing a product - it is about protecting people, equipment, and investments.



For 15 years and counting, this Louisville school system has trusted Precise Air Filter to keep its buildings clean, efficient, and ready for learning.