11 Best Furnace Filters of 2023 | Buyer’s Guide and Reviews
Your home is comprised of many crucial components, but one among the noted few is the furnace filter. It works without creating any fuss while allowing the furnace to complete its job efficiently. It’s because of the furnace that those of you who have been suffering because of poor air quality can rest easy. And […]
Best Furnace Filters
Whether you’re looking for a filter that targets allergens, pet dander, or dust, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, here’s the list of the 11 best furnace filters that will keep your home’s air fresh and clean.1. FilterBuy MERV 8 Pleated AC Furnace Air Filter – Best for Pets & Durability
It might feel like a lost battle when you’re putting in a lot of effort to keep the house clean, especially with pets around the house. But when you invest in a quality furnace filter, it makes the job easier. One such unit is the FilterBuy Pleated AC Furnace Air Filter, which works to capture pet dander. It offers many other benefits that you’ll learn now.- 20x20x1 replacement air filters for your furnace, air...
- MERV 8 synthetic media (comparable with MPR 600 & FPR 5)...
- Features 12 pleats per foot
- Reasonable price tag
- Last for about three months
- The size is slightly smaller than the given measurements
2. Honeywell Elite Allergen Pleated FPR 10 Air Filter – Best for Allergen Capture
This furnace filter is considered to be one of the best-selling units and has some good ratings. It comes in a range of sizes that comfortably fits most furnaces. The filter is made with reinforced pleated media that is designed to capture the tiniest of particles in the air. Let’s get to the following paragraphs to see whether it lives up to the hype or not.- Captures high percentage of house hold airborne particles,...
- MERV 11 performance with low pressure drop
- Heavy-duty, moisture-resistant frame
- Electro-statically charged
- Can filter down to the microparticle level
- More expensive
3. Filtrete Micro Allergen Defense HVAC Air Filter – Best for Seasonal Allergies
If you’re looking for a furnace filter that is specially designed for keeping the air free from allergens, then this makes for an ideal choice. The Micro Allergen Defense Air Filter by Filtrete is known for its purifying and protective qualities. It’s a washable unit that manages to keep different allergens from circulating inside the house.- OUTPERFORMS FIBERGLASS, WASHABLE AND NON-ELECTROSTATIC...
- DESIGNED WITH EXCLUSIVE Filtrete Brand 3-in-1 technology...
- Reduces allergens in the air
- Easy installation
- Lasts for about 2 to 3 months
- Poor build quality
4. Nordic Pure MERV 13 Pleated AC Filter – Best for Smoke Removal
If you’re someone who finds it difficult to breathe with cigarette smoke around the house, then you should check out this unit. This Pleated AC Furnace Air Filter by Nordic Pure helps in removing smoke particles before it manages to settle in. The filter also boasts a high MERV rating that showcases its efficiency.- Nominal Size: 16 x 30 x 1, Actual Size: 15 3/4 x 29 3/4 x...
- Measure your air filter for the exact size and compare it to...
- Removes fireplace and tobacco smoke
- MERV 13
- Made of synthetic materials
- Slightly expensive
5. Flander PrecisionAire Nested Fiberglass Filters – Best for Budget Shoppers
If you had checked out some of the older filters, you must have seen that fiberglass was one of the most frequently used materials. And the top-rated option that comes under this category is the PrecisionAire Nested Fiberglass Filter by Flanders. You don’t have to extend your budget to purchase this unit, which makes it a suitable choice for many.- Self-retaining spun glass media adheres directly to frame
- Made from fiberglass
- Low airflow resistance
- Easy to set-up
- Require replacement after 30 days
6. Lennox Healthy Climate MERV 11 Box Filter
The Lennox Healthy Climate Box Filter is an excellent option if you’ve been looking for a highly-rated filter that can keep your home safe and clean. It comes with an innovative design, which can trap dirt particles and helps to prevent them from entering the house. The main advantage of using this filter is that it lasts for six months, which is pretty high compared to other units.- Replacement for HCXF20-10, HCF20-10
- 20X25X5 MERV 11 Replacement for Lennox X6673
- MERV rating of 11
- Needs to be replaced after six months
- Great build quality
- Might not fit all furnaces
7. AIRx Health 1-inch MERV 13 Furnace Filters
If you’re concerned about the indoor air causing harm to your health, then it’s best to get a furnace filter that comes with a MERV rating of 13. This unit by AIRx is highly effective at trapping some of the major pollutants that are present in the air. The price is pretty reasonable for its quality. So, let’s check out whether this unit lives up to the expectations or not. Experience This AirX Health pleated air filter is one of the most efficient models that comes in a pack of six for better convenience. The functional properties of this unit ensure that it can dramatically reduce respiratory irritants, bacteria, smog, viruses, and mold throughout the entire house. On any given day, this unit can outperform the fiberglass models. It protects the home from mold spores, dust mites, pollen, smog, and pet dander. Plus, it can also trap respiratory irritants like ultrafine particles, which affect our health. It protects the air conditioning and heating equipment from getting clogged with dust. This further allows for better airflow along with reduced maintenance and energy costs. Since this filter is equipped with more pleats, it allows for improved particle-holding capabilities and airflow. All in all, this is a quality furnace filter that can be washed for better efficiency.- MERV rating of 13
- Features electrostatic filter for trapping bacteria, smog, and viruses
- Maximizes energy efficiency
- Fair pricing
- Requires frequent changes
8. Aerostar MERV 13 Pleated Furnace Filters
This 14x24x1 pleated air filter is made by a renowned company that focuses on making quality items at reasonable prices. It’s suitable for people with allergies, and especially for the ones suffering from asthma. The efficiency of this product is mainly because of the high MERV rating and its sturdy construction.- Nominal size: 14x24x1; Actual size 13 3/4"x 23 3/4" x 3/4";...
- Designed to filter microscopic particles such as lint, dust...
- Large surface area
- High-efficiency rate
- Easy to install
- Value-added product
- Low airflow resistance
- cons
- cons
9. Electrostatic Washable 1-inch Furnace Filter
If you want to purchase a unit that has incredible construction, then do check out this Electrostatic filter. It’s crafted to improve the ventilation in the house. It also helps to remove tobacco smoke, dust, and other pollutants. This filter is manufactured in the US, so you can trust the long-lasting quality and overall longevity.- Enhanced HVAC Effectiveness – Crafted to help improve your...
- Cleaner, Healthier Air – These air conditioner filters...
- Uses industrial premium-grade material
- Durable construction
- Suitable for heavy-duty environments
- Requires monthly cleaning
10. FilterBuy Allergen 1-inch Furnace Filters
This filter is best suited for eliminating odor. So if you have been trying to find a way to get rid of tobacco or pet dander, then give this product a whirl! It’s known to be one of the best high-grade pleated filters that’s suitable for allergies and is mainly popular amongst most homes that have furnaces.- 20x20x1 replacement air filters for your furnace, air...
- MERV 8 (Odor Eliminator) synthetic media (comparable with...
- Suitable for homes with pets
- 12 pleats per foot
- Efficient in trapping different allergy triggers
- Users have complained about not finding the right size
11. Filtrete Clean Living 1-inch Furnace Filters
The Filtrete Clean Living furnace filter is a pretty impressive product that improves the efficiency of the HVAC system. It prevents any unwanted particles from entering your living space and keeps the machine clean. The main advantage of purchasing this unit is its affordability which comes without compromising the product quality.- Performs better than ordinary fiberglass and washable 1 in...
- Easy to install
- Made with high-quality materials
- Effective in filtering dust, gunk, and allergens
- Affordable price
- Frames might fall apart if it’s not installed correctly
Best Furnace Filters Comparison Table
Product | MERV Rating | Filter Type | Size | Material | Lifespan | Efficiency | Additional Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FilterBuy MERV 8 Pleated AC Furnace Air Filter | MERV 8 | Pleated | Varies | Synthetic pleated media | 3 months | Captures dust, pollen, lint | Electrostatically charged for efficiency |
Honeywell Elite Allergen Pleated FPR 10 Air Filter | MERV 11 | Pleated | Varies | Synthetic pleated media | 6-12 months | Effective against allergens | High-efficiency filtration |
Filtrete Micro Allergen Defense HVAC Air Filter | MERV 11 | Electrostatic | Varies | Synthetic electrostatic | 3 months | Captures micro-allergens | Electrostatically charged for efficiency |
Nordic Pure MERV 13 Pleated AC Filter | MERV 13 | Pleated | Varies | Synthetic pleated media | 3-6 months | Highest level of filtration | Hypoallergenic and antimicrobial |
Flander PrecisionAire Nested Fiberglass Filters | MERV 4 | Fiberglass | Varies | Fiberglass | 1 month | Basic filtration | Disposable and budget-friendly |
Lennox Healthy Climate MERV 11 Box Filter | MERV 11 | Box | Varies | Synthetic media | 6-12 months | Efficient particle capture | Deep pleats for increased surface area |
AIRx Health 1-inch MERV 13 Furnace Filters | MERV 13 | Pleated | 1 inch | Synthetic pleated media | 3-6 months | High-efficiency filtration | Antimicrobial and hypoallergenic |
Aerostar MERV 13 Pleated Furnace Filters | MERV 13 | Pleated | Varies | Synthetic pleated media | 3 months | Captures fine particles | Made in the USA |
Electrostatic Washable 1-inch Furnace Filter | Washable | Electrostatic | 1 inch | Washable electrostatic | Reusable | Efficient particle capture | Washable and reusable |
FilterBuy Allergen 1-inch Furnace Filters | MERV 11 | Pleated | 1 inch | Synthetic pleated media | 3 months | Effective against allergens | Captures pollen, dust, and mold spores |
Filtrete Clean Living 1-inch Furnace Filters | MERV 11 | Pleated | 1 inch | Synthetic pleated media | 3 months | Captures large particles | Electrostatically charged for efficiency |
Buying Guide For The Best Furnace Filter
Here’s a list of the factors that you need to consider before purchasing a furnace filter:- Filter size
- MERV rating
- System specifications
- Cost
Furnace Filters FAQ's
The frequency of changing your furnace filter depends on various factors, including the type of filter, the level of pollutants in your home, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. In general, it is recommended to change standard disposable filters every 1 to 3 months, while high-efficiency filters may last up to 6 months or more. Regularly inspect your filter and replace it when it appears dirty or clogged.
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value and is a rating system that indicates the effectiveness of a furnace filter in capturing airborne particles. The scale ranges from 1 to 20, with higher numbers indicating higher filtration efficiency. Filters with higher MERV ratings can capture smaller particles but may also restrict airflow more, requiring careful consideration of your HVAC system’s compatibility.
It depends on the type of furnace filter. Standard disposable filters are designed for one-time use and should be replaced. However, some filters, such as washable or electrostatic filters, can be cleaned and reused according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to check the filter’s labeling or consult the manufacturer to determine if it is washable and how to properly clean it.
To choose the right furnace filter, consider factors such as the size of your HVAC system, the level of air pollution in your home, and any specific concerns such as allergies or pets. Additionally, pay attention to the filter’s MERV rating, compatibility with your HVAC system, and the recommended filter change frequency. Consulting with an HVAC professional can help you make an informed decision.
Yes, a properly selected and maintained furnace filter can significantly improve indoor air quality. It can help remove airborne particles such as dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander, reducing allergens and pollutants circulating in your home. However, additional air quality improvement systems may be necessary for more advanced air purification.
Installing a furnace filter is typically a straightforward process. First, turn off your HVAC system. Locate the filter compartment, usually near the return air duct or blower motor. Remove the old filter and insert the new one, ensuring it is oriented correctly with the airflow direction indicated on the filter. Finally, secure the filter in place and restart your HVAC system.
High-efficiency furnace filters with higher MERV ratings offer several benefits. They can effectively capture a wide range of airborne particles, including smaller ones that can aggravate allergies and respiratory issues. These filters help improve indoor air quality, reduce dust accumulation, and create a healthier home environment.
Yes, a clean and properly functioning furnace filter can contribute to energy efficiency. The filter trapping dust and debris prevents them from clogging the HVAC system’s components. This allows the system to operate more efficiently, maintain optimal airflow, and reduce energy consumption. Regularly replacing the filter ensures maximum energy efficiency.
Dirty furnace filters can pose potential health risks. They can contribute to poor indoor air quality, allowing allergens, bacteria, and mold spores to circulate freely. This may lead to allergy symptoms, respiratory issues, and aggravated asthma. Regular filter maintenance and replacement are crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
Conclusion
Once again, thank you for reading through our article on the best furnace filters! We’re excited to share valuable insights and real-life experiences gained while testing these products. Here’s to enjoying purified indoor air, keeping allergies at bay, and maintaining a cleaner home for you and your loved ones!
Out of these 11 best furnace filters, here are our top three recommendations based on different factors:
- Best for Pet Owners and Durability: FilterBuy MERV 8 Pleated AC Furnace Air Filter is an ideal option for its ability to capture pet dander and its lasting performance of up to three months.
- Best for Allergen Protection: Filtrete Micro Allergen Defense HVAC Air Filter is a good option for those who prioritize allergen-blocking properties and keeping seasonal allergies under control.
- Best for High Performance and Value: Aerostar MERV 13 Pleated Furnace Filters is the right choice for asthma sufferers and those who expect top-tier efficiency in capturing minute particles without breaking the bank.
In today’s world, furnace filters are essential to maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor environment. We hope our top three recommendations cater to your unique needs, whether you have pets, allergies, or simply want the best possible air quality in your home. Remember to change your filters regularly to ensure their effectiveness and to protect your heating and cooling systems. Breathe easy and enjoy the benefits of clean indoor air!
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