What is the most popular HVAC filter size?

Author: Royce Huel  |  Last update: Saturday, March 15, 2025

What Is the Most Common Size of Air Filter for a House? The most common size air filter for a house is usually 20 x 20 x 1, but this can vary depending on the specific HVAC system installed.

What is the most common size HVAC filter?

Currently, the most common size furnace filters are:
  • 20 x 20 x 1.
  • 16 x 25 x 1.
  • 20 x 25 x 1.
  • 20 x 25 x 4.
  • 16 x 20 x 1.
  • 30 x 30 x 1.
  • 16 x 25 x 5.
  • 14 x 20 x 1.

Is MERV 14 too high for residential?

The abbreviation stands for Minimum Effective Reporting Value. In other words, it's a measurement showing how small the holes are in the filter. The higher the MERV number, the smaller the holes, and the less that can pass through. Ultimately, this is what makes MERV 14 filters not a good choice for home use.

What is the market size for HVAC filtration?

HVAC Filters Market was valued at around USD 5.14 billion in 2023 and is estimated to register a CAGR of over 6% between 2024 and 2032.

Can I use 20x25x4 instead of 20x25x5?

Usually they round up or down to the nearest inch, so it is less likely that these two filters will fit the same furnace because of the rounding. However, if your filter is close to 20x25x4. 5, and the actual dimensions of the 20x25x5 filter are closer to 20x25x4. 5, than they might fit.

How to Choose the Right Furnace Air Filter | This Old House

How long does a 20x25x4 air filter last?

Fortunately, most 20x25x4 air filters last between six to eight months. By that calculation, the average homeowners will not need more than two 20x25x4 air filters in any given year. In contrast, a one-inch air filter will need to be changed every two to three months.

Is MERV 11 too much?

For most homes, a MERV rating between 8 and 13 strikes the perfect balance between filtration, airflow, and cost. A MERV 11 filter, for instance, can last up to six months and offers excellent air cleaning without putting too much strain on your HVAC system.

Are thicker HVAC filters better?

Thicker air filters tend to last longer because they have more square footage to capture and hold air particles.

How do I know what HVAC filter to buy?

A standard air filter size for home HVAC systems is often 20" x 20" x 1". However, the size can vary greatly depending on the specific system. Always measure your existing filter or check your system manual to ensure you get the right size.

What MERV do HVAC techs recommend?

MERV‑8 filters are among the most popular choices because they strike a balance between performance and adaptability, fitting most systems without modifications. However, it's worth noting that filters with higher MERV ratings can restrict airflow.

What is the best air filter?

The 17 Best Air Purifiers of 2024
  • The Best Overall. IQ Air Atem X. Read more. $1,400 at Amazon.
  • Best Air Purifier for Small Rooms. Coway Airmega 200M. Read more. $230 $160 at Amazon.
  • Best for Large Rooms With High Ceilings. Coway Airmega ProX. Read more. ...
  • A Budget Large-Room Option. Bosch Air 6000 Air Purifier. Read more.

Is there a downside to high MERV filters?

High-MERV filters increase the static pressure of your system, and if the ductwork is already marginal, this can cause the airflow to drop to a level where the temperature exceeds the furnace's limit.

What happens if your air filter is too big?

Damage to the HVAC System

Reduced Efficiency of the System: An improperly sized air filter can create an imbalance in the airflow, which means the system may not operate at its designed efficiency. When the HVAC unit is forced to work harder, it consumes more energy, leading to increased utility bills.

What type of filter is best for HVAC?

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are recommended by the U.S. Department of Health because they are able to remove at least 99.97% of airborne allergens and pollutants — including mold spores and dust that are as small as 0.3 microns.

Can you cut HVAC filter to size?

Some air filters can lose their structural integrity and effectiveness if cut, especially if the person cutting it is inexperienced with air filters. Air filters that are cut improperly, or filters that will not withstand the structural change, can lead to improper performance and damage to the HVAC system.

What are the most common HVAC filter sizes?

The most common air filter sizes for residential HVAC systems typically include 16x25x1, 20x25x1, and 16x20x1. However, it's essential to measure your existing filter or consult your HVAC system manual to ensure you choose the right size.

Do more expensive air filters work better?

Expensive air filters, on the other hand, are more efficient at trapping particles. This means that fewer harmful contaminants can enter your system, and you'll be able to enjoy better indoor air quality.

Is MERV 13 too high for home?

Using a filter above MERV 13 in a home is unnecessary and can restrict airflow and damage the HVAC system. According to the EPA, MERV 13 filters can capture up to 90% of particles between 3 and 10 microns, up to 85% between 1 and 3 microns, and up to 50% between . 3 and 1 microns.

Can I use a 16x25x4 instead of 16x25x5?

UNDERSTANDING FILTER SIZES

Therefore, for example, a 16x25x4 filter is 16 inches long, 25 inches wide, and 4 inches thick. It's important to note that filters with different dimensions are not interchangeable due to variations in frame size and media area.

Are high flow air filters worth it?

Because of the ability to intake more air, a high-performance filter provides the engine with cooler air in comparison to a conventional filter. Cooler air is denser than warmer air, which means more oxygen to combust. This leads to better fuel economy and performance overall.

Are 2 inch furnace filters better than 1 inch?

With the 2 inch pleated filter, even though it is smaller, we have a static pressure of 0.158” WC. As you can see the 2 inch filter will serve our needs MUCH better than the 1 inch filter. Even if the duct system is in good shape, using this filter will keep the system from struggling.

Should I buy MERV 8 or 11?

For households working with tight budgets, MERV 8 filters offer cost-effectiveness and minimal upkeep requirements. Superior particle capture and enhanced air quality come with MERV 11 filters, making them suitable for dwellings with pets, allergies, or high pollution.

What MERV rating is best for airflow?

In general, the best MERV rating for a home is somewhere between 8-10. These filters will capture a large portion of the airborne particles and improve indoor air quality without making your energy costs rise significantly.

Is MERV 8 good enough for pets?

Furnace filters with a MERV 8 rating or higher can effectively remove pet dander from the air. On average, MERV 8 filters remove 85% of large air particles and 50% of small particles. The higher you go the better the filtration will be, but we don't recommend going higher than MERV 13.

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