NO! This is a myth. The only way a pleated air filter can cause trouble is if you fail to change the air filter on-time. (That's what makes our subscription so great!) Pleated filters capture small particles that can be harmful to you and your HVAC system. Fiberglass filters allow these pollutants to easily pass through and cycle back through the system into your home so that you breathe them in. Along the way, some particles can attach to the refrigerant coils. This buildup can lower system efficiencies, drive up power bills, or even worse—cause a catastrophic breakdown. Learn more about pleated air filters vs. fiberglass air filters.