13 Best Furnace Filters of 2020 | 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 even more so if you have asthma or allergies. If you didn’t know already, the primary function of this filter is to keep hair, dust, debris, and other pollutants from entering the return duct of the furnace Even though changing the filter frequently seems like an addition to your already long list of household chores, it has a ton of benefits. Now, that brings us to the burning question- which furnace filter will be the best for you? Well, let’s move to the following sections to check out the reviews of some of the best furnace filters that are ruling the market now. Best Furnace Filters 1. FilterBuy MERV 8 Pleated AC Furnace Air Filter 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. FilterBuy 20x20x1 MERV 8 Pleated AC Furnace Air Filter,... 20x20x1 MERV 8 Pleated Air Filter for AC HVAC or Furnace... MADE IN THE USA: Manufactured by FilterBuy in the USA using... TRAPS 90% OF AIRBORNE PARTICLES: Say goodbye to dust,... LONG-LASTING: Designed to last up to 3 months. Ideal for... Check Latest Price Experience When we were looking for a furnace filter, our main search criteria was to ensure that we pick a durable model. FilterBuy is known for offering the best value for money products and our AC service provider suggested this unit to us. We received a set of two products that lasts up to three months each.  It comes with a MERV rating of 8, which means that it can effectively remove lint, pollen, dust, debris, and pet dander from the air. And the best part, we had the option to select from numerous sizes that made it simple to find the right size.  Since it comes with 12 pleats per foot and offers several creases, it gradually improves the process of filtration. Thus, it manages to filter the indoor air by a drastic rate thanks to its airflow capacity of about 350 CFM. We have also managed to seal the frame accurately to the furnace by using some extra weather stripping foam. All in all, this is an excellent product for our home as it helps reduce pet hair and dander. Pros Features 12 pleats per foot Reasonable price tag Last for about three months Cons The size is slightly smaller than the given measurements 2. Rheem Basic Household Pleated FPR 4 Air Filter If you’re on a limited budget, then you should consider one of the most sought after models- Rheem Basic Household Pleated Air Filter. This unit has garnered a lot of positive reviews from most regular users. The size of the product is such that it can comfortably fit all standard furnace brands without having to worry about it rattling around.  Rheem Basic Household 21.5 in. x 23.5 in. x 1 in. Pleated... Rheem Basic Household 21.5 in. x 23.5 in. x 1 in. Pleated... Lasts up to 90 days Keeps equipment clean for efficient operation Catches small particles that other filters miss Check Latest Price Experience Most of the high-end filters are pretty expensive, with each unit costing about $20, which was way beyond our budget. This is why we opted for the basic household pleated air filter by Rheem.  It not only has the right measurements but also comes with a cardboard frame making it simple to install the filter. The filter has a MERV rating of 8 (or an FPR of 4), which keeps the dust of our home and help minimize the allergy symptoms.  Despite its affordable price tag, it doesn’t compromise on the quality and works efficiently to remove pet dander, dust mite debris, and pollen from the air.  We generally change our filters quite frequently, so it was important to find a budget option. Moreover, according to the manufacturers, we can use this filter for a maximum of 90 days, which is considered to be a great deal. Pros Catches small particles that other units might miss Last for up to 90 days Easy to replace Cons Some users complained about the efficiency 3. Honeywell Elite Allergen Pleated FPR 10 Air Filter 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. Honeywell FC100A1037 Ultra Efficiency Air Cleaning Filter,... Replacement media air cleaner with MERV of 11 (Minimum... For use with L96-397, supplies large levels of MERV... Efficiency ranges are defined for small particles, E1=0.3 to... Used with Honeywell 20X25, 25X20, 25X22 F100 and F200 Media... Check Latest Price Experience After having tried a range of furnace filters over the past few years, we can say this has been a wise investment. It has a MERV rating of 13 ( or an FPR of 10); this indicates that it can capture particles that are as small as 0.3 microns.  On top of that, it’s equipped with an electrostatic charge, which further attracts microscopic particles. The large surface area of this filter helps to improve its dust holding capacity. It works to remove pollen, dust, pet dander, lint, bacteria, mold spores, virus carriers, microscopic allergens, smog particles, and odor from the air. When it comes to the overall build quality, it has a moisture-resistant frame that manages to last for up to 90 days. Since we have switched from poor quality models to this unit, we can feel the difference by seeing how well this filter performs. Finally, it manages to significantly reduce the allergy symptoms around the house by reducing the dust build-up. Pros Heavy-duty, moisture resistant frame Electro-statically charged Can filter down to the microparticle level Cons More expensive 4. Filtrete Micro Allergen Defense HVAC Air Filter 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. Filtrete MPR 1000 14x20x1 AC Furnace Air Filter, Micro... Outperforms fiberglass, washable and non-electrostatic... Exclusive Filtrete Brand 3-in-1 technology from 3M traps... Filtrete 1000 MPR (Microparticle Performance Rating) equates... 1000 and 1200 MPR also available in 4”, 4” slim fit and... Check Latest Price Experience During the monsoon and winters, we have to ensure that we have a quality furnace filter offering protection. With children around the house, it’s important to keep the air clean to protect them battling cold and flu in the allergy season. This unit is particularly famous for its allergen blocking properties.  It comes with a MERV rating of 11 and works efficiently to capture the fine particles because of the electrostatic charge features. Moreover, it removes household dust, dust mite debris, lint, pollen, spores, smoke, and pet dander from the air.  Since we live in a pretty dust prone area, we need to change the filter before it even completes the three-month duration. This helps to prevent putting too much strain on the heating or cooling system. We also got to choose from a variety of sizes, which is a bonus. Overall, it works brilliantly to provide relief from seasonal and pet allergies. Pros Reduces allergens in the air Easy installation Lasts for about 2 to 3 months Cons Poor build quality 5. Nordic Pure MERV 13 Pleated AC Filter 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. Nordic Pure 16x30x1 MERV 13 Pleated AC Furnace Air Filters,... Actual Size of Air Filter: 15 3/4 x 29 3/4 x 3/4... MERV 13 is comparable to MPR 2200, 2400, and FPR 10 All Nordic Pure air filters are electrostatically charged... Attracts and captures dust, lint, pollen, bacteria, pet... Check Latest Price Experience If you struggle to get rid of tobacco smoke from our clothing and furniture, then try investing in a quality filter. This unit has a high-quality furnace filter that removes smoke particles even before it starts settling in. We had the option to choose from a range of different sizes, this is why it was easier to pick a unit that fits our furnace accurately. The MERV rating of 13 is also pretty impressive because it’s the highest on the scale. It can remove mold spores, airborne dust, pollen, smog, pet dander, dust mite debris, and fireplace and tobacco smoke from the air. The electrostatic charge feature also ensures that it manages to capture the fine particles that pass through the filter. If we manage to change the filter every 90 days, then it works to the best of its capability. Pros Removes fireplace and tobacco smoke MERV 13 Made of synthetic materials Cons Slightly expensive 6. Miller Poly Furnace Door Filter Finding a furnace filter for a mobile home must have been tricky. Until now, we’ve heard many tiny homeowners complaining about the lack of small size filters. Thanks to Miller Polly, a company that has focused on designing this unit, especially for mobile homes. So, let’s find out more about the benefits of this unit in the following paragraphs. Miller Poly Furnace Door Filter (19x54) 4 Pack by Magnet by... Check Latest Price Experience This furnace filter by Miller Poly measures about 19” x 54”, and it comes in a pack of four for better convenience. So, we don’t have to worry about ordering new sets every two or three months. It was tricky for us to find a filter that would fit the furnace door in our mobile home.  However, we had to trim the edges slightly to ensure that it fits correctly. Since it’s made to be used in our mobile homes, we had to mount it on the furnace door with the help of built-in retainers.  One drawback that is worth mentioning is that the manufacturers have not mentioned about the MERV rating. But there is no issue with the efficiency, because the filter has been coated with a sticky substance to catch more dust.  Even though the filter is a bit thinner than what we expected, it manages to keep the indoor air clean in small homes. Overall, it’s a quality product, considering its reasonable price. Pros Suitable for mobile homes Can be trimmed to fit the door accurately Reasonable price range Cons The filter is much thinner than other models cons cons 7. Flander PrecisionAire Nested Fiberglass Filters 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 the top-rated options that come 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. FLANDERS 10059.01 PRECISIONAIRE Nested Glass AIR Filter,... Self-retaining media adheres directly to frame Keeps equipment clean for efficient operation Change filters monthly for peak energy efficiency UL class II Check Latest Price Experience We have been using fiberglass filters for over a decade, and finding such an affordable piece has been a great advantage. It’s available in a set of few standard sizes, which makes it easy to order for the right size.  The MERV rating of 4 is pretty minimal, but we generally don’t face too many issues with the accumulation of dust or debris around the house. So, even if the rating is low, it helps to keep the indoor air quality in an optimal state. We can’t recommend this unit for homes with too many pets or if people are suffering from allergies. Nevertheless, it features a quality filtering medium that is made with continuous filament spun glass. The filter frames are constructed with chipboard, makes it easy to install the unit. It also offers minimal airflow resistance, and the manufacturers claim that the filter should be changed every 30 days for better energy efficiency.  Pros Made from fiberglass Low airflow resistance Easy to set-up Cons Require replacement after 30 days 8. 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.  Sale Lennox Healthy Climate 20x25x5 x6673 MERV 11 Box Filter Replacement for HCXF20-10, HCF20-10 20X25X5 MERV 11 Replacement for Lennox X6673 Replacement for EXPXXFIL0020, EXPXXUNV0020, EXPXXLMC0020,... X6673 Replacement Filter for Lennox and Honeywell Check Latest Price Experience Just like when shopping for any household products, the main factor that we consider is the sturdiness and overall construction. Most other filters that we have used over the past few years usually last for about three months. Thus, a filter that has a durability of 6 months was a pleasant surprise.  The design is also unique, but it’s functions are on point because it traps dust particles and helps prevent them from entering the house. These panels are made with expanded aluminum mesh that has a clay coating to absorb and hold moisture.  So, when warm and dry air passes through the filter, it efficiently allows the water vapors to enter the house. And the wet pad helps to trap mineral pollutants found in water. It has a MERV rating of 11, and the filter is made with electrostatically charged media. This again allows it to trap pet dander, mold spores, allergens, and pollen. The filter is build to trap irritants measuring as small as 0.3 microns.  Plus, it ensures that there won’t be any additional damage to the heating or cooling system, which is because it’s made with synthetic materials. This provides a large surface with minimal air resistance and maximum area to hold dirt and other pollutants. Pros MERV rating of 11 Needs to be replaced after six months Great build quality Cons Might not fit all furnaces 9. 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. AIRx HEALTH 16x20x1 MERV 13 Pleated Air Filter - Made in the... Marv 13 16x20x1 furnace filter Traps respiratory irritants, smog, bacteria and viruses -... Our highest pleat count - far more than most retail air... Made in U.S.A. Check Latest Price 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 the 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.   Pros MERV rating of 13 Features electrostatic filter for trapping bacteria, smog, and viruses Maximizes energy efficiency Fair pricing Cons Requires frequent changes 10. 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. Aerostar Home Max 14x24x1 MERV 13 Pleated Air Filter, Made... CHECK YOUR FIT - Nominal size: 14x24x1; This MERV 13 filter... SUPERIOR FILTRATION EFFICIENCY - Aerostar filters are made... IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY - Protect your family and loved... HIGH PERFORMING - 100% synthetic electrostatic media for... Check Latest Price Experience We had used several other filters by Aerostar that has lower MERV ratings; with this unit, we could understand how high efficiency makes a difference. This unit comes in a box of six, which is sufficient enough to last for about two years or more.  According to the manufacturers, the filter should be changed within thirty to ninety days. Especially during the extreme summer and winter months, we need to change the filter more frequently because it tends to work at the optimum level. The filter also comes with more pleats that reduce the airflow at a drastic rate. Also, it’s equipped with an electrostatic charge that makes the filter efficient enough to capture bacteria, dust, debris, and other pollutants that are as minute as 0.3 microns.  Lastly, the product helps to reduce the strain from a central cooling and heating system that improves the durability of the system. This helps to ensure that the indoor air quality is under control. Pros Large surface area High-efficiency rate Easy to install Value-added product Cons Low airflow resistance cons cons 11. 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. Trophy Air Pleated Electrostatic Air Filter Replacement |... Enhanced HVAC Effectiveness – Crafted to help improve your... Cleaner, Healthier Air – These air conditioner filters... Premium Craftsmanship – Each HVAC air filter is crafted... Quick & Easy Installation – Each electrostatic air... Check Latest Price Experience We were selective about the build quality, after having tried a host of different models that didn’t live up to the expectations. This unit comes with enhanced HVAC effectiveness that ensures proper airflow by reducing the airflow resistance.  The build quality is excellent; it boasts of premium craftsmanship with four layers of top-grade aluminum and a pair of electrostatic media for better reliability.  It has a unique combination of woven polypropylene that comes encased in a metal frame. The structure of this filter is such that it efficiently removes substances that contaminate the air and causes allergies. The installation was relatively simple, and each electrostatic air purifier slides in effortlessly into the HVAC system. Thus, we don’t have to seek professional help when we want to change the old filters. We have been using this unit in a heavy-duty environment, and other than having to clean the filter monthly, the functions are up to the mark.  Pros Uses industrial premium-grade material Durable construction Suitable for heavy-duty environments Cons Requires monthly cleaning 12. 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. FilterBuy Allergen Odor Eliminator 20x20x1 MERV 8 Pleated AC... 20x20x1 Odor Eliminator Air Filter with Activated Carbon for... BLOCKS UNWANTED ODORS: Removes ODORS from smoke, pets, and... IMPROVES INDOOR AIR QUALITY: Traps dust, debris, lint,... MADE IN THE USA: All components are 100% manufactured by... Check Latest Price Experience We ordered this odor eliminator filter because it’s capable enough to remove odors from pets, smoke, cooking, and more. It can capture about 90% of the airborne particles that are found in most of our homes. This includes dust, lint, debris, and pollen. It also comes with a MERV rating of 8, which makes the best choice for residential homes. We wanted to opt for pleated filters because it’s best for households with a lot of pets around. The filter is designed to last around three months, but this again differs according to the frequency of usage. It also depends on how fast the filter surface gets dirty. With about 12 pleats per foot, it has ample surface area for trapping more airborne particles that can withstand exposure to dampness and moisture. Overall, this is a great unit considering its efficiency and affordable price. Pros Suitable for homes with pets 12 pleats per foot Efficient in trapping different allergy triggers Cons Users have complained about not finding the right size 13. 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 into your living space and keeps the machine clean. The main advantage of purchasing this unit is its affordability that comes without compromising the product quality. Filtrete Clean Living Basic Dust Filter, MPR 300, 16 x 25 x... Performs better than ordinary fiberglass and washable 1 in... Check Latest Price Experience We have been using Filtrete air filters for quite some time now because it’s compatible with most heating and cooling systems. This unit comes with electrostatically charged fibers that can capture large airborne allergens like lint, pollen, and household dust.  The MPR is 316, which is standard, considering that we are not using the filter in a heavy-duty environment. Since the MERV rating is 6, this showcases the efficiency of its filtering power.  We received this unit in a set of six, and each piece can be used for about three months. So, we don’t have to worry about purchasing a new set within the next two years. And the installation was also relatively simple; we didn’t take anything more than 10 minutes to set it up. Overall, it delivers excellent performance and helps in protecting the health of all the members in the house. But we do need to change the filter frequently during the high-allergen seasons and when there is any construction work around the house. Pros Easy to install Made with high-quality materials Effective in filtering dust, gunk and allergens Affordable price Cons Frames might fall apart if it’s not installed correctly Best Furnace Filters Buyer’s Guide Here’s a list of the factors that you need to consider before purchasing a furnace filter: Filter size You need to opt for a filter that fits accurately into the system to ensure better efficiency. To find the furnace filter size, you should check out the manual, or it might be highlighted along the edge of your new device. MERV rating This is another important factor that you need to consider because the MERV rating determines the system’s efficiency in trapping dust and other pollutants. The higher the rating, the better is its ability to remove dirt and contaminants. Try to select a model with the highest MERV, which your HVAC unit can comfortably accommodate. System specifications Although the ideal choice for filtering out pollutants is generally the HEPA filter, many of the residential units can’t handle it. But, if you don’t pick the right filter for your HVAC unit, then it can damage the system and drive down the energy efficiency. So, it’s always advisable to check the manufacturer’s instructions before placing the order. Cost If you buy a high-quality filter, then you’ll receive a good return on investment over time. However, the low-cost filters require frequent replacement, which further adds up to make a huge budget. Final words We understand that deciding as to which model will be the best for your home must have been a bit challenging. Especially with the range of available options.  But it’s essential to go through the buyer’s guide carefully to ensure that you make the right choice. After all, putting in a little effort to pick the best furnace filter goes a long way in reducing your expenses.  And mainly it helps to protect the air quality in the house. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and place the order. Till next time! 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