Best Overall
Filtrete MPR 1500 Allergen, Bacteria, & Virus Filter
Runner-Up
Nordic Pure Pleated MERV 12 Air Filters
Best Bang for the Buck
Filtrete MPR 1200 Odor Reduction Air Filters
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Changing a furnace ’s air filter every 3 month cankeep it from malfunctioningwhile contributing to better indoor air quality and scale down energy costs . By exchange the filter seasonally — along with otherregular furnace maintenance – the filter wo n’t likely become clotted with rubble , preferent tomentum , and other airborne particles , which can reduce the furnace ’s efficiency .
Keep reading to learn authoritative furnace filter feature that serve users value alternative to choose the good furnace filter for a home HVAC system . Plus , find out why we ’ve opt the following replacement tune filter as some of the top selection for most homeowners .
How We Chose the Best Furnace Filters
Before picking our card of the best furnace filter , we bolstered our research by interviewing indoor air timber experts and HVAC professionals to get their insight into exactly what make a great furnace filter . According to Brad Roberson , the president ofAire Serv , a Neighborly company that operate worldwide providing HVAC induction , maintenance and hangout service , shoppers will want to front for “ the proper eccentric of filter based on the specific contaminant or allergens in your indoor environs , which can significantly better the overall air quality . householder can assess indoor air timbre by pay attention to key index number such as persistent or unusual odors and an gain in respiratory outcome or allergic reaction among resident . ”
With this in intellect , we researched the most sought - after furnace filter across a range of categories and let on that the well option useable are compatible with many HVAC organisation andfurnace brands , filter out as many irritating particles and contaminant as possible , have a farseeing lifespan , and amount with a high MERV military rating ( filter performance valuation ) .
The best-loved type of furnace filters in the above list ended up being the disposable pleated and static for their power to percolate out lint , dust , favourite dander , crock , pollen , and mold spore . While many picks are not able of filter bullet and bacteria , most of these selection come in multiple sizes and thickness that are compatible with certain furnaces . As for MERV ratings , most of the production above mountain chain from 8 to 12 without impeding flow of air .
We also interviewed Bridget Volz , associate director of merchandise management and indoor melodic phrase quality atCarrier , a global supplier of sustainable building and cold chain solution , and the origin of Willis Carrier , the “ inventor of New air conditioning . ” Her advice ? Make certain to replace old filters often for better Department of Energy efficiency . “ A dirty or choked zephyr filter can limit flow of air through the system . Because the system of rules will have to work harder to maintain your puff , it employ more electricity , which can increase your vitality beak . ”
Our select weft listed above can last for more than 2 to 3 months at a time , but for convenience , some will last for long than 12 month or come with multiple filters . As for extra features , arrow on the frame to take placement and airflow , olfactory property - control , high - efficiency particulate air ( HEPA ) filter , and even Bluetooth capability are included for public convenience .
Our Top Picks
The best furnace filters protect the working parts of a furnace and bunker dust , preferred dander , and pollen to keep these airborne pollutant from recirculating in a home . Consult a furnace ’s operating manual of arms to determine the recommended heaviness and MERV evaluation and then gibe out the following replacement filter that are at the top of their class . One of these may be a secure burst for your current furnace .
Available in more than a dozen sizes , the Filtrete MPR 1500 furnace filter earned our adept overall furnace replacement filter designation . Its high - efficiency MERV-12 rating gain it an splendid choice for those who want to pin as much airborne detritus as potential .
Filtrete employ single 3 - in-1 technology to trap lint , dust , pet hackles , soot , pollen , and mold spore while encouraging clean line to flow through the filter . The 1 - inch - thick AC furnace filter is narrow enough to conform to in most wall registers and in many slide - in filter holders located like a shot on the furnace itself . To get an accurate fit , user need to valuate their current filter before put this high - efficiency filter .
Get the Filtrete MPR 1500 furnace filters atAmazon .
Changing furnace filter is a snap with Nordic Pure MERV 12 melody filter that block a high level of dust and other airborne pollutants that could otherwise end up in the furnace or recirculating throughout a home . These disposable pleated air filters are hypoallergenic and feature static vulcanized fiber that pull pollutants , and they protest mold and mildew growth .
These AC furnace filters are 1 inch thick and come in a variety of size . Because these filter offer a gamy MERV rating of 12 , they may overload more quickly than filter with modest scores . Depending on how often a furnace run , users may need to replace them more often than every 3 month .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Nordic Pure furnace filters atAmazon .
Those who require to have first-class air filtration without breaking the bank can rely on this static option from Filtrete . This two - pack of filters comes with a MERV-11 rating , an MPR-1200 rating , and an active carbon copy bed that filters odors and heater ; mildew and mold ; as well as hunky-dory dust , pollen , and o.k. particle .
Each of the filters lasts for more than 3 months and is compatible with furnace , HVAC systems , and air conditioners . Plus , this AC furnace filter comes in many sizes and in multiple quantities to reconcile most substance abuser ’ furnaces and farseeing - term indigence .
Photo: lowes.com
Get the Filtrete MPR 1200 furnace filters atAmazon(2 - face pack ) .
Best Smart
Filtrete Smart MPR 1500 Air Filter
usable in dozens of size and with Bluetooth engineering to supervise filter use , the Filtrete Smart gentle wind filter is a top choice for a furnace replacement filter . With a proprietary algorithmic rule that detects airflow to track use of a filter , users can occupy less about exchange the filter at the right time .
The high - efficiency MERV-12 valuation makes this AC furnace filter an excellent option for those who want to trap as much airborne rubble as possible . Filtrete uses exclusive 3 - in-1 technology to immobilize filter media like lint , detritus , pet dander , lampblack , pollen , and mold spores . The 1 - in duncical filter is minute enough to fit in most rampart registers or many chute - in filter holders . Download the Filtrete app to supervise and receive alerts about the filter status .
Get the Filtrete overbold furnace filters atLowe ’s .
Photo: amazon.com
Best Long-Lasting
Honeywell Home High Efficiency Air Filter
Shoppers who want a set - and - leave approach to supersede a furnace filter can trust on the Honeywell Home eminent - efficiency air filter . This 4.38 - inch boneheaded option comes with pleated and electrostatically commit filter media to capture 20 times more materials than distinctive 1 - column inch models .
This Honeywell pleated filter also lasts for 12 months before call for to be put back , and its MERV-8 military rating intend that this pleated airwave filter in effect sink in out debris , pollen , and preferred dander that are up to 0.3 micrometer in size . All in all , this Honeywell eminent - efficiency filter is ideal for those who want a extremely efficient filter that lasts for calendar month without maintenance .
Get the Honeywell Home gamy - efficiency melody filters atAmazon(3 - pack ) orThe Home Depot(2 - pack ) .
Photo: amazon.com
Best Permanent
Air-Care Permanent Washable Electrostatic Air Filter
Eco - witting consumer who want to reduce unneeded waste product have the alternative of bank on a permanent and washable filter like this choice from Air - Care . This model uses an electrostatic charge render by atmosphere flowing through its static prone fibre and roll - form galvanized steel , causing all airborne materials to stay trapped until the filter is cleaned .
As for its effectuality , this atmosphere - concern option charm molecule , dust , and debris as small as 1 micron , has a MERV-8 rating , and lasts for up to 12 months before call for a wash . For added peace of mind , this good example is also registered by the Environmental Protection Agency , which intend it hinders the growth of mildew and clay sculpture for all - around clean air . Plus , it do in multiple sizes to conciliate most furnace boots .
Get the Air - caution air filter atThe Home DepotorNorthern Tool + Equipment .
Photo: amazon.com
Best for Allergies
AIRx Allergy MERV 11 Pleated Air Filter
useable in a 1 - inch tokenish thickness ( 0.75 - inch factual heaviness ) , a host of sizes , and wholly disposable , the best allergy furnace filter pick goes to the AIRx Allergy MERV 11 pleated air filter . It ’s pleated and designed with extra denseness to entrap airborne allergens that can trigger allergic reaction symptom . It ’s also good at blocking smoke and odors .
The MERV 11 pleated melodic phrase filter is dense and aid keep allergen from recirculating through a abode ’s ductwork . For the skillful air quality , use this filter in junction with other allergen - shrink mensuration , such as a void with a HEPA filter and an air purifier to keep airborne allergen at Laurus nobilis .
Get the AIRx air filters atAmazon .
Photo: lowes.com
Best for Pets
Aerostar Allergen & Pet Dander MERV 11 Air Filter
For homes with deary , check out the disposable pleated Aerostar Allergen & Pet Dander MERV 11 air filter that occlude a high telephone number of airborne particles , including pet fur and positron emission tomography hackles . This high - efficiency , static filter attracts particles and traps them in lieu .
This pleated furnace filter is usable in a range of size and nominal heaviness from 1 to 4 inches , making it an fantabulous choice for a variety of furnaces and return - air vent compartments . The Aerostar manufacturer recommends change this filter every 2 to 3 months in the fall and spring , and monthly during heavy furnace use , such as during the winter month .
Get the Aerostar furnace filters atAmazon .
Photo: amazon.com
Best for Mold
Filter King AC Furnace Air Filter
Those endure in a humid area may want to look at the Filter King MERV 8 filter with mold protection that ’s design to immobilize pollutants , include mold spores , yet allow devoid airflow through the filter to reduce the risk of mould or mildew growth .
This disposable pleated furnace filter is available in a miscellanea of titular 1- and 2 - inch - thick size to suit a wide range of furnace . The producer recommend supercede it every 3 month at a minimum . Meant for residential or commercial use , these filters also immobilize auto emissions , humidifier dust , and legionella . However , this pleated furnace filter is not the best when it comes to tobacco smoke , bacteria , virus carriers , and microscopic allergens .
Get the Filter King furnace filters atAmazon .
Photo: homedepot.com
Best for Cigarette Smoke
Filtrete MPR 1900 Premium Air Filter
If a home has a wood - sting open fireplace or the chef of the family tends to sear meal on a regular basis , the Filtrete MPR 1900 air filter will help neutralize that smell of dope and other lingering olfactory perception .
The three - in - one disposable pleated air filter is just under 1 inch thick . It absorbs smells and eliminates undesirable odors while trapping other airborne particle , such as junk , allergens , and pollen . This pleated breeze filter comes in a variety of sizes and should be changed a minimum of once every 3 months . This washable filter has a MERV paygrade of 13 and comes with two filters that have V - mold pleats for a large surface and added aviation flow .
Get the Filtrete MPR 1900 furnace filters atAmazon .
Photo: amazon.com
Also Consider
Honeywell Home MicroDefense AC Air Filter
Users who are looking for a longer - endure filter may want to hold in out the Honeywell Home MicroDefense AC air filter , which go up to 12 months before needing to be replaced . This disposable 4 - column inch - fatheaded filter sport inscrutable pleats and electrostatically charged fibers that enchant and agree a orotund amount of particle in its chap .
The filter is only available in 4 - inch breadth and a few sizes , so users will call for to value the current filter to check that the Honeywell extended manipulation filter will fit . to boot , this filter can avail provide odor control .
Get the Honeywell Home MicroDefense furnace filters atThe Home Depot .
Photo: amazon.com
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Furnace Filter
Choosing the best furnace filter command matching the filter to the furnace manufacturer ’s specification . Just because one filter close up more particles than another does n’t intend it ’s the correct alternative for every furnace .
Types of Furnace Filters
As far as home improvement geared wheel goes , furnace filters may rank among some of the least exciting products . There ’s none of the danger and raw efficaciousness of baron tools , none of the visual impact of utterly mitered pate molding , and for sure none of the reassurance that attach to meaning investments like newfangled windows or raw roofing .
But there can be a big impact even in trivial things , and find oneself the right furnace filter can save money and better melodic phrase quality . Originally , filters were design to protect the strike parts of the furnace itself . Now thanks to technological progress , filter prevent harmful particles from cycling back into the air that is breathed in at habitation .
Furnace filters are rated by their minimum efficiency reporting value , which is often refer to as “ MERV . ” The higher the rating , the more effective the filter is at pin down airborne particle . The numerical range is from 1 ( miserable efficiency ) to 20 ( high-pitched efficiency ) . show more about MERV ratings below .
Photo: amazon.com
A disposable fibreglass filter is the option that comes to mind when exploiter intend “ furnace filter . ” Created from 1 - column inch thick spun fiberglass , it does little more than keep large speck like rubble , lint , and debris from gunking up a organisation . They have MERV ratings of 2 to 3 and be just $ 1 to $ 2 . Though they are very inexpensive and good for renters and those without allergies or asthma , they have little to no effect on clean the air .
Disposable pleated air filter , a pop selection made from polyester or cotton fiber newspaper publisher , can remove some small particles like spores and pinch for better melody timbre , butneed to be changedfrequently to avoid clogging and taxing an HVAC system .
These option have a MERV evaluation of 6 and cost $ 4 to $ 5 . While comparatively inexpensive , they are also made from green material and hinder some pocket-sized particles . But , they can add more ohmic resistance to airflow , make a organization more expensive to operate .
Photo: amazon.com
The granddad of furnace filters , high - efficiency pleated alternative are made from deep 4- to 5 - inch - dense pleated synthetic cotton plant attached to a very strict metal grid to keep leaks or fluttering . These filters are a minuscule pricy at $ 100 , but they have an excellent MERV rating of 14 to 16 create them suitable for use in hospital .
Using one at home may be unmanageable since they are typically used in special housing due their thickness . But , they can block out out the modest of particle and are good for those with respiratory problems or autoimmune disorder .
A disposable static filter contains self - commit static cotton or composition fiber that draw and trap low particles . With a MERV military rating of 10 , these options are low-priced in standard size and are a good solution for homes with child , pets , or smokers . If needed , usance size are expensive , leading to higher price if replaced regularly over several years .
Photo: homedepot.com
Similar to their disposable similitude , a reusable electrostatic filter contains ego - blame cotton fibers that appeal corpuscle . Permanent options have a obliterable , machine - washable furnace filter user can reuse for six to eight years . With a MERV evaluation of 8 , these produce little waste , are more effectual than pleated airwave filters , and a dear option if users use a received size of it . But , they are less good than static models , and usage size are expensive .
This reusable filter is denser than fibreglass , so it block more airborne particulate , and it comes in either a flat or pleated version in thickness up to four inches . Traps up to 91 percent of coarse airborne particles , include pollen and dust speck with a MERV military rank of 8 . As for the downside , these options do not eliminate the need to cleanHVAC filtersor coils at least every few year because some of the particles will still slip through .
A HEPA filter block up to 99.7 percent of airborne particles that are 0.3 micron and big , but it is n’t readily useable in size to meet standard furnaces .
BecauseHEPA filtersare so dense , they can trim airflow into the furnace , so like high - efficiency pleated air filter , they ’re typically used only in commercial-grade furnaces or hospital configurations . Though these picks block the high level of airborne particulates and cater good air caliber with a MERV evaluation of 16 to 20 , they are not suitable for most residential furnace .
Filter Size
Furnace filter come in dozens of nominal sizes , with 20 inches recollective by 16 inch wide , 25 column inch longsighted by 20 inch all-encompassing , and 25 inches long by 16 column inch wide being the three most common size . Filter thickness diverge from 1 to 5 inches , and in universal , the thicker the filter , the more atom - block power it will have . Also , keep in nous that the token size is n’t the existent size .
Before choosing a filter , users will need to watch the possessor ’s or operating manual of arms , because not all furnaces will take a thicker product . As the filter gets duncish , the furnace must mould harder to pull atmosphere through it , reducing its efficiency and useful life . It ’s unremarkably easiest to measure the current filter to find out the best size .
Washable vs. Disposable
Changing a furnace ’s filter regularly ( every 3 calendar month is ideal ) will help keep dust and other particles from damaging the furnace ’s act upon parts , such as its warming coils and rooter . Disposable filters are lightweight , relatively cheap , and can be tossed out after using . Washable filter boast a grievous aluminum frame with static fibers that serve as the filter .
A washable filter , depending on the brand , may last a few years . Still , it requires a specific washables procedure , which may let in separating the filter into layers and washing them severally . user must also make certain a washable filter is entirely ironic before reinstall it to keep cast and mould growth . For many , using disposable filter is the warm and most straight solution .
MERV Rating
Furnace filters are impute a minimum efficiency reporting note value ( MERV ) based on their compactness . While denser filters trap more airborne particles , they should also be changed more frequently because they run to choke more chop-chop . The MERV scale bunk from 1 to 20 , and filters in the 6 to 12 orbit are designed for residential use .
A furnace ’s operating manual will recommend the MERV evaluation that ’s best accommodate to the unit of measurement . Higher efficiency filter are mainly used in commercial scope and health readiness , where the HVAC system is powerful enough to take out air through a obtuse filter easy .
Climate
Location can factor into the character of furnace filter that ’s best for a home . In humid , rainy areas , mould growth is a common concern . When in a damp area , prefer a furnace filter with a MERV rating of at least 6 in parliamentary law to block moulding spore from being draw into the furnace and then recirculating inside a home .
FAQs
With a form of furnace filter on the market , all promising to do a great business of trammel airborne particles , it ’s only natural to have some interrogative about the adept furnace filter for your home . Check these answer to some common questions .
Q. What is the best MERV rating for furnace filters?
While MERV ratings go all the way up to 20 , high - rated filter are more often than not reserved for health and research facilities . For residential furnaces , a evaluation of 12 is among the good .
Q. Do higher MERV ratings decrease airflow?
high MERV valuation will often stimulate a more restricted airflow . However , the restrictions do not get a significant impact when used in residential background .
Q. Is a thicker furnace filter better than a thinner one?
Not always . Thicker filter are denser and block more dust and molecule , but they may also do the furnace to work hard to imbibe in air . expend only the type and heaviness of filter recommended by the furnace ’s maker .
Q. How often should you change your furnace filter?
Many furnacefilters need to be changedevery 2 to 3 months , which is why many options hail with four to six filters per purchase . However , select pick can last from 9 to 12 month before postulate a replacement .
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