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Changing a furnace’s air filter every 3 months can keep it from malfunctioning while contributing to better indoor air quality and reducing energy costs. By replacing the filter seasonally—along with other regular furnace maintenance– the filter won’t likely become clogged with dust, pet hair, and other airborne particles, which can reduce the furnace’s efficiency.
Keep reading to learn important furnace filter features that help users evaluate options to choose the best furnace filter for a home HVAC system. Plus, find out why we’ve chosen the following replacement air filters as some of the top choices for most homeowners.
- 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
- BEST SMART: Filtrete Smart MPR 1500 Air Filter
- BEST LONG-LASTING: Honeywell Home High Efficiency Air Filter
- BEST PERMANENT: Air-Care Permanent Washable Electrostatic Air Filter
- BEST FOR ALLERGIES: AIRx Allergy MERV 11 Pleated Air Filter
- BEST FOR PETS: Aerostar Allergen & Pet Dander MERV 11 Air Filter
- BEST FOR MOLD: Filter King AC Furnace Air Filter
- BEST FOR CIGARETTE SMOKE: Filtrete MPR 1900 Premium Air Filter
- ALSO CONSIDER: Honeywell Home MicroDefense AC Air Filter
How We Chose the Best Furnace Filters
Before picking our lineup of the best furnace filters, we bolstered our research by interviewing indoor air quality experts and HVAC professionals to get their insight into exactly what makes a great furnace filter. According to Brad Roberson, the president of Aire Serv, a Neighborly company that operates worldwide providing HVAC installation, maintenance and repair services, shoppers will want to look for “the right type of filter based on the specific contaminants or allergens in your indoor environment, which can significantly improve the overall air quality. Homeowners can assess indoor air quality by paying attention to key indicators such as persistent or unusual odors and an increase in respiratory issues or allergic reactions among occupants.”
With this in mind, we researched the most sought-after furnace filters across a range of categories and discovered that the best options available are compatible with many HVAC system and furnace brands, filter out as many pesky particles and contaminants as possible, have a long lifespan, and come with a high MERV rating (filter performance rating).
The favored type of furnace filters in the above list ended up being the disposable pleated and electrostatic for their ability to filter out lint, dust, pet dander, soot, pollen, and mold spores. While many picks are not capable of filtering smoke and bacteria, most of these options come in multiple sizes and thicknesses that are compatible with certain furnaces. As for MERV ratings, most of the products above range from 8 to 12 without impeding airflow.
We also interviewed Bridget Volz, associate director of product management and indoor air quality at Carrier, a global provider of sustainable building and cold chain solutions, and the origin of Willis Carrier, the “inventor of modern air conditioning.” Her advice? Make sure to replace old filters often for better energy efficiency. “A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow through the system. Because the system will have to work harder to maintain your comfort, it uses more electricity, which can increase your energy bills.”
Our select picks listed above can last for more than 2 to 3 months at a time, but for convenience, some will last for longer than 12 months or come with multiple filters. As for special features, arrows on the frame to direct placement and airflow, odor-control, high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, and even Bluetooth capability are included for convenience.
Our Top Picks
The best furnace filters protect the working parts of a furnace and trap dust, pet dander, and pollen to keep these airborne pollutants from recirculating in a home. Consult a furnace’s operating manual to determine the recommended thickness and MERV rating and then check out the following replacement filters that are at the top of their class. One of these may be a good fit for your current furnace.
Best Overall
Filtrete MPR 1500 Allergen, Bacteria, & Virus Filter
Pros
- 3-in-1 technology; traps lint, dust, pet dander, soot, pollen, and mold to promote clean air
- MERV-12 rating provides an excellent filtration process for residential use
- Comes in many sizes to suit most users’ furnace boots
Cons
- Does not filter exhaust particles or any unwanted odors
Product Specs
- Type: Disposable electrostatic
- Size: 24.68 inches long by 19.71 inches wide by 0.78 inch thick (other sizes available)
- MERV rating: 12
Available in more than a dozen sizes, the Filtrete MPR 1500 furnace filter earned our best overall furnace replacement filter designation. Its high-efficiency MERV-12 rating makes it an excellent choice for those who want to trap as much airborne debris as possible.
Filtrete uses exclusive 3-in-1 technology to trap lint, dust, pet dander, soot, pollen, and mold spores while encouraging clean air to flow through the filter. The 1-inch-thick AC furnace filter is narrow enough to fit in most wall registers and in many slide-in filter holders located directly on the furnace itself. To get an exact fit, users need to measure their current filter before ordering this high-efficiency filter.
Get the Filtrete MPR 1500 furnace filters at Amazon.
Runner-Up
Nordic Pure Pleated MERV 12 Air Filters
Pros
- Hypoallergenic design promotes clean air by reducing airborne irritants
- Electrostatic particles included to remove mold and mildew as well as dust and particles
- Comes in multiple sizes to accommodate a variety of furnaces
Cons
- May clog faster than comparable options; frequent replacement may be required
- Pricey compared to similar options on this list
Product Specs
- Type: Disposable pleated
- Size: 15.75 inches long by 15.75 inches wide by 0.75 inch thick, among other sizes
- MERV rating: 12
Changing furnace filters is a snap with Nordic Pure MERV 12 air filters 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 electrostatic fibers that attract pollutants, and they resist mold and mildew growth.
These AC furnace filters are 1 inch thick and come in a variety of sizes. Because these filters offer a high MERV rating of 12, they may clog more quickly than filters with lower scores. Depending on how often a furnace runs, users may need to replace them more often than every 3 months.
Get the Nordic Pure furnace filters at Amazon.
Best Bang for the Buck
Filtrete MPR 1200 Odor Reduction Air Filters
Pros
- Electrostatic construction effectively traps and holds onto fine dust and particles
- Includes an active carbon layer that effectively removes unwanted smells
- Comes in a wide array of sizes to accommodate furnaces, air conditioners, and HVAC systems
- Each filter lasts for more than 3 months; comes with multiple quantities for user-friendliness
Cons
- Some users have reported that the filter material is not durable and tends to shed
Product Specs
- Type: Disposable electrostatic
- Size: 15.69 inches long by 19.96 inches wide by 0.81 inch thick (other sizes available)
- MERV rating: 11
Those who want to have excellent air filtration without breaking the bank can rely on this electrostatic option from Filtrete. This two-pack of filters comes with a MERV-11 rating, an MPR-1200 rating, and an active carbon layer that filters odors and smoke; mildew and mold; as well as fine dust, pollen, and fine particles.
Each of the filters lasts for more than 3 months and is compatible with furnaces, HVAC systems, and air conditioners. Plus, this AC furnace filter comes in many sizes and in multiple quantities to accommodate most users’ furnaces and long-term needs.
Get the Filtrete MPR 1200 furnace filters at Amazon (2-pack).
Best Smart
Filtrete Smart MPR 1500 Air Filter
Pros
- Comes in many size options to suit multiple users’ furnace boots
- Bluetooth-enabled construction allows for monitoring through Filtrete app
- Traps lint, dust, pet dander, soot, pollen, and mold spores
Cons
- Does not filter ultrafine particles
- Pricey compared to some other options currently available
Product Specs
- Type: Disposable electrostatic
- Size: 12 inches long by 12 inches wide by 0.78 inch thick, among other sizes
- MERV rating: 12
Available in dozens of sizes and with Bluetooth technology to monitor filter use, the Filtrete Smart air filter is a top choice for a furnace replacement filter. With a proprietary algorithm that detects airflow to track usage of a filter, users can worry less about changing the filter at the right time.
The high-efficiency MERV-12 rating makes this AC furnace filter an excellent choice for those who want to trap as much airborne debris as possible. Filtrete uses exclusive 3-in-1 technology to trap filter media like lint, dust, pet dander, soot, pollen, and mold spores. The 1-inch thick filter is narrow enough to fit in most wall registers or many slide-in filter holders. Download the Filtrete app to monitor and receive alerts about the filter status.
Get the Filtrete smart furnace filters at Lowe’s.
Best Long-Lasting
Honeywell Home High Efficiency Air Filter
Pros
- Set-and-forget design lasts for more than 12 months before needing to be replaced
- Capable of catching pollen, dust, and pet dander that is 0.3 microns in size
- Made with a pleated and electrostatically charged design for effective filtering
- 4.38-inch thickness is 20 times more effective than typical 1-inch options
Cons
- May be too large for some furnace filters’ boots
- Lower MERV rating compared to some other options on the market
Product Specs
- Type: Disposable pleated electrostatic
- Size: 19.94 inches wide by 24.87 inches long by 4.38 inches thick
- MERV rating: 8
Shoppers who want a set-and-forget approach to replacing a furnace filter can rely on the Honeywell Home high-efficiency air filter. This 4.38-inch thick option comes with pleated and electrostatically charged filter media to capture 20 times more materials than typical 1-inch models.
This Honeywell pleated filter also lasts for 12 months before needing to be replaced, and its MERV-8 rating means that this pleated air filter effectively filters out dust, pollen, and pet dander that are up to 0.3 microns in size. All in all, this Honeywell high-efficiency filter is ideal for those who want a highly efficient filter that lasts for months without maintenance.
Get the Honeywell Home high-efficiency air filters at Amazon (3-pack) or The Home Depot (2-pack).
Best Permanent
Air-Care Permanent Washable Electrostatic Air Filter
Pros
- Lasts for 12 months before needing a wash; made with high-quality galvanized steel for long-term use
- Reduces unnecessary waste; never needs to be replaced, just washed
- Catches materials as small as 1 micron; can catch dust, pollen, smoke, and pet dander
Cons
- Some users have reported that the filter needs to be cleaned before 12 months of use
- Lower MERV rating compared to some other options available
Product Specs
- Type: Permanent electrostatic
- Size: 19.625 inches wide by 24.625 inches high by 1 inch thick (other sizes available)
- MERV rating: 8
Eco-conscious consumers who want to reduce unnecessary waste have the option of relying on a permanent and washable filter like this option from Air-Care. This model uses an electrostatic charge generated by air flowing through its static prone fibers and roll-formed galvanized steel, causing all airborne materials to remain trapped until the filter is cleaned.
As for its effectiveness, this Air-Care option catches particles, dust, and debris as small as 1 micron, has a MERV-8 rating, and lasts for up to 12 months before needing a wash. For added peace of mind, this model is also registered by the Environmental Protection Agency, which means it hinders the growth of mildew and mold for all-around clean air. Plus, it comes in multiple sizes to accommodate most furnace boots.
Get the Air-Care air filters at The Home Depot or Northern Tool + Equipment.
Best for Allergies
AIRx Allergy MERV 11 Pleated Air Filter
Pros
- Suitable for those with allergies; has a built-in HEPA filtration and air purifier
- Comes with 6 pleated furnace filters for trapping mold spores, pet dander, smoke, and more
- Comes in multiple sizes to suit multiple users’ furnace boots
Cons
- Some users have reported ineffective use or poor construction
Product Specs
- Type: Disposable pleated
- Size: 19.5 inches long by 15.5 inches wide by 0.75 inch thick (other sizes available)
- MERV rating: 11
Available in a 1-inch nominal thickness (0.75-inch actual thickness), a host of sizes, and completely disposable, the best allergy furnace filter pick goes to the AIRx Allergy MERV 11 pleated air filter. It’s pleated and designed with extra density to trap airborne allergens that can trigger allergy symptoms. It’s also good at blocking smoke and odors.
The MERV 11 pleated air filter is dense and helps keep allergens from recirculating through a home’s ductwork. For the best air quality, use this filter in conjunction with other allergen-reducing measures, such as a vacuum with a HEPA filter and an air purifier to keep airborne allergens at bay.
Get the AIRx air filters at Amazon.
Best for Pets
Aerostar Allergen & Pet Dander MERV 11 Air Filter
Pros
- Has a pleated and electrostatic construction for catching and holding filtered materials
- Comes with 6 pleated furnace filters for catching spores, pollen, pet dander, smoke, and more
- Comes in multiple sizes to accommodate most users’ furnaces
- Lasts for 2 to 3 months before requiring a replacement
Cons
- Does not filter bacteria, including mold and mildew spores
- Some users report that the filters are not true to size
Product Specs
- Type: Disposable pleated
- Size: 24.75 inches long by 15.75 inches wide by 0.75 inch (other sizes available)
- MERV rating: 11
For homes with pets, check out the disposable pleated Aerostar Allergen & Pet Dander MERV 11 air filter that blocks a high number of airborne particles, including pet fur and pet dander. This high-efficiency, electrostatic filter attracts particles and traps them in place.
This pleated furnace filter is available in a range of sizes and nominal thicknesses from 1 to 4 inches, making it an excellent choice for a variety of furnaces and return-air vent compartments. The Aerostar manufacturer recommends changing this filter every 2 to 3 months in the fall and spring, and monthly during heavy furnace use, such as during the winter months.
Get the Aerostar furnace filters at Amazon.
Best for Mold
Filter King AC Furnace Air Filter
Pros
- Suitable for residential and commercial use for ample versatility
- Filters auto emissions, humidifier dust, and legionella
- Lasts for up to 3 months before requiring a replacement
- Affordable price point compared to other models on this list
Cons
- Does not filter tobacco smoke, bacteria, virus carriers, and microscopic allergens
Product Specs
- Type: Disposable pleated
- Size: 29.5 inches long by 29.5 inches wide by 1 inch thick (other sizes available)
- MERV rating: 8
Those living in a humid region may want to consider the Filter King MERV 8 filter with mold protection that’s designed to trap pollutants, including mold spores, yet allow free airflow through the filter to reduce the risk of mold or mildew growth.
This disposable pleated furnace filter is available in a variety of nominal 1- and 2-inch-thick sizes to fit a wide range of furnaces. The manufacturer recommends replacing it every 3 months at a minimum. Meant for residential or commercial use, these filters also trap 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 at Amazon.
Best for Cigarette Smoke
Filtrete MPR 1900 Premium Air Filter
Pros
- Filters and traps dust and pollen and provides odor- and allergen-control capabilities
- Comes in multiple sizes to accommodate multiple users’ furnace boots
- 2 pleated filters are included for more than 6 months of effective filtration
Cons
- Some users report manufacturing defects
Product Specs
- Type: Disposable pleated
- Size: 24.69 inches long by 15.69 inches wide by 0.78 inch thick, among other sizes
- MERV rating: 13
If a home has a wood-burning fireplace or the chef of the family tends to scorch meals regularly, the Filtrete MPR 1900 air filter will help neutralize that smell of smoke and other lingering odors.
The three-in-one disposable pleated air filter is just under 1 inch thick. It absorbs smells and eliminates unwanted odors while trapping other airborne particles, such as dust, allergens, and pollen. This pleated air filter comes in a variety of sizes and should be changed a minimum of once every 3 months. This washable filter has a MERV rating of 13 and comes with two filters that have V-shaped pleats for a larger surface and added air flow.
Get the Filtrete MPR 1900 furnace filters at Amazon.
Also Consider
Honeywell Home MicroDefense AC Air Filter
Pros
- Long lasting; works for 12 months before requiring a replacement
- Comes in 2 size options to accommodate most furnace boots
- Odor control included for eliminating unwanted smoke smells
Cons
- Does not filter bacteria; may not suit all users’ preferences
Product Specs
- Type: High-efficiency pleated
- Size: 15.94 inches long by 27.88 inches wide by 4.38 inches thick or 19.94 inches long by 27.88 inches wide by 4.38 inch thick
- MERV rating: 8
Users who are looking for a longer-lasting filter may want to check out the Honeywell Home MicroDefense AC air filter, which lasts up to 12 months before needing to be replaced. This disposable 4-inch-thick filter features deep pleats and electrostatically charged fibers that capture and hold a large amount of particles in its crevices.
The filter is only available in 4-inch widths and a few sizes, so users will need to measure the current filter to make sure the Honeywell extended use filter will fit. Additionally, this filter can help provide odor control.
Get the Honeywell Home MicroDefense furnace filters at The Home Depot.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Furnace Filter
Choosing the best furnace filter requires matching the filter to the furnace manufacturer’s specifications. Just because one filter blocks more particles than another doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for every furnace.
Types of Furnace Filters
As far as home improvement gear goes, furnace filters may rank among some of the least exciting products. There’s none of the danger and raw efficacy of power tools, none of the visual impact of perfectly mitered crown molding, and certainly none of the reassurance that accompanies significant investments like new windows or new roofing.
But there can be a big impact even in little things, and finding the right furnace filter can save money and improve air quality. Originally, filters were designed to protect the moving parts of the furnace itself. Now thanks to technological advancements, filters prevent harmful particles from cycling back into the air that is breathed in at home.
Furnace filters are rated by their minimum efficiency reporting value, which is often referred to as “MERV.” The higher the rating, the more efficient the filter is at trapping airborne particles. The numerical range is from 1 (lowest efficiency) to 20 (highest efficiency). Read more about MERV ratings below.
Disposable Fiberglass
A disposable fiberglass filter is the option that comes to mind when users think “furnace filter.” Created from 1-inch thick spun fiberglass, it does little more than prevent larger particles like dust, lint, and debris from gunking up a system. They have MERV ratings of 2 to 3 and cost 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 cleaning the air.
Disposable Pleated
Disposable pleated air filters, a popular option made from polyester or cotton paper, can remove some small particles like spores and mites for better air quality, but need to be changed frequently to avoid clogging and taxing an HVAC system.
These options have a MERV rating of 6 and cost $4 to $5. While relatively inexpensive, they are also made from green materials and block some small particles. But, they can add more resistance to airflow, making a system more expensive to operate.
High-Efficiency Pleated
The granddaddy of furnace filters, high-efficiency pleated options are made from deep 4- to 5-inch-thick pleated synthetic cotton attached to a very rigid metal grid to prevent leaks or fluttering. These filters are a little pricey at $100, but they have an excellent MERV rating of 14 to 16 making them suitable for use in hospitals.
Using one at home may be difficult since they are typically used in special housing due their thickness. But, they can screen out the smallest of particles and are beneficial for those with respiratory problems or autoimmune disorders.
Disposable Electrostatic
A disposable electrostatic filter contains self-charging electrostatic cotton or paper fibers that attract and trap small particles. With a MERV rating of 10, these options are affordable in standard sizes and are a good solution for homes with children, pets, or smokers. If needed, custom sizes are expensive, leading to higher costs if replaced regularly over several years.
Reusable Electrostatic
Similar to their disposable counterpart, a reusable electrostatic filter contains self-charging cotton fibers that attract particles. Permanent options have a removable, machine-washable furnace filter users can reuse for six to eight years. With a MERV rating of 8, these produce little waste, are more effective than pleated air filters, and a good option if users use a standard size. But, they are less effective than electrostatic models, and custom sizes are expensive.
Polyester
This reusable filter is denser than fiberglass, so it blocks more airborne particulates, and it comes in either a flat or pleated version in thicknesses up to four inches. Traps up to 91 percent of common airborne particles, including pollen and dust particles with a MERV rating of 8. As for the downside, these options do not eliminate the need to clean HVAC filters or coils at least every few years because some of the particles will still slip through.
HEPA
A HEPA filter blocks up to 99.7 percent of airborne particles that are 0.3 microns and larger, but it isn’t readily available in sizes to meet standard furnaces.
Because HEPA filters are so dense, they can reduce airflow into the furnace, so like high-efficiency pleated air filters, they’re typically used only in commercial furnaces or hospital settings. Though these picks block the highest level of airborne particulates and provide better air quality with a MERV rating of 16 to 20, they are not suitable for most residential furnaces.
Filter Size
Furnace filters come in dozens of nominal sizes, with 20 inches long by 16 inches wide, 25 inches long by 20 inches wide, and 25 inches long by 16 inches wide being the three most common sizes. Filter thickness varies from 1 to 5 inches, and in general, the thicker the filter, the more particle-blocking ability it will have. Also, keep in mind that the nominal size isn’t the actual size.
Before choosing a filter, users will need to check the owner’s or operating manual, because not all furnaces will accept a thicker product. As the filter gets thicker, the furnace must work harder to pull air through it, reducing its efficiency and useful life. It’s usually easiest to measure the current filter to find out the best size.
Washable vs. Disposable
Changing a furnace’s filter regularly (every 3 months is ideal) will help keep dust and other particles from damaging the furnace’s working parts, such as its heating coils and fan. Disposable filters are lightweight, relatively inexpensive, and can be tossed out after using. Washable filters feature a heavier aluminum frame with electrostatic fibers that serve as the filter.
A washable filter, depending on the brand, may last a few years. Still, it requires a specific washing procedure, which may include separating the filter into layers and washing them separately. Users must also make sure a washable filter is completely dry before reinstalling it to prevent mold and mildew growth. For many, using disposable filters is the quickest and most straightforward solution.
MERV Rating
Furnace filters are assigned a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) based on their density. While denser filters trap more airborne particles, they should also be changed more frequently because they tend to clog more quickly. The MERV scale runs from 1 to 20, and filters in the 6 to 12 range are designed for residential use.
A furnace’s operating manual will recommend the MERV rating that’s best suited to the unit. Higher efficiency filters are mainly used in commercial settings and health facilities, where the HVAC system is powerful enough to draw air through a dense filter easily.
Climate
Location can factor into the type of furnace filter that’s best for a home. In humid, rainy areas, mold growth is a common concern. When in a damp region, choose a furnace filter with a MERV rating of at least 6 in order to block mold spores from being drawn into the furnace and then recirculating inside a home.
FAQs
With a variety of furnace filters on the market, all promising to do a great job of trapping airborne particles, it’s only natural to have some questions about the best furnace filter for your home. Check these answers 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 filters are generally reserved for health and research facilities. For residential furnaces, a rating of 12 is among the best.
Q. Do higher MERV ratings decrease airflow?
Higher MERV ratings will often cause a more restricted airflow. However, the restrictions do not cause a significant impact when used in residential settings.
Q. Is a thicker furnace filter better than a thinner one?
Not always. Thicker filters are denser and block more dust and particles, but they may also cause the furnace to work harder to draw in air. Use only the type and thickness of filter recommended by the furnace’s manufacturer.
Q. How often should you change your furnace filter?
Many furnace filters need to be changed every 2 to 3 months, which is why many options come with four to six filters per purchase. However, select options can last from 9 to 12 months before requiring a replacement.
