10 Best Furnace Filters 2025 in the United States

The Filtrete 16x20x1 AC Furnace Air Filter is designed to efficiently capture unwanted particles, making it a solid choice for residential use. With a MERV rating of 5, it effectively attracts larger particles like lint and household dust, enhancing air quality. One of its standout features is the 3M technology that allows for better airflow while trapping these particles, leading to improved heating and cooling system performance. The filters come in a convenient 6-pack, which is great for those who prefer to stock up and change filters every three months.

A major advantage of these filters is their ease of use; they are designed to be replaced every 90 days and can be monitored through the Filtrete Smart app that sends reminders when it's time for a change. This feature helps ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency by preventing airflow restrictions due to dirty filters.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The MERV 5 rating, while sufficient for capturing larger particles, may not be ideal for households with allergy sufferers or those wanting to filter out smaller particulates like pollen or smoke. Additionally, the filters are not washable, meaning they need to be replaced regularly, which could be a concern for users looking for more sustainable options.

The Filtrete 16x25x1 AC Furnace Air Filter is a solid choice for those looking to improve their home's air quality. With a MERV rating of 11 and a MPR of 1000, it effectively captures a wide range of microparticles, helping to reduce allergens and create a cleaner living space. Its pleated design optimizes airflow while maintaining efficiency, making it suitable for use in furnaces, air conditioners, and HVAC systems.

One of the notable strengths of this filter is its exclusive 3-in-1 technology, which enhances its ability to trap unwanted particles. Additionally, the product comes in a convenient 2-pack, ensuring you have a backup ready for the next replacement, which is recommended every three months for optimal performance.

Potential buyers should note that the actual dimensions of the filters are slightly different from the nominal size, measuring 15.719 x 24.72 x 0.84 inches. This might require some careful measuring to ensure a proper fit in your system. While the filter does an excellent job of capturing particles, its polyester material may not be as durable as some higher-end options on the market.

The AprilAire 213 Replacement Filter is a solid choice for those looking to improve indoor air quality, particularly for allergy sufferers. With a MERV rating of 13, this filter effectively traps a wide range of airborne allergens, including dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander, making it ideal for households with allergy sensitivities. Its patented Self-Seal Technology ensures that air passes through the filter more efficiently, minimizing any bypass, which is a significant advantage for maintaining cleaner air in your home. The filter's nominal dimensions of 20 x 25 x 4 inches fit various AprilAire air purifiers, which adds to its versatility for users with compatible models. The installation process is also straightforward, allowing users to easily replace the filter without any need for complicated setups.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the filter's MERV rating is impressive for capturing allergens, it may restrict airflow more than lower-rated filters, which can be a concern for some older HVAC systems. Additionally, the filter is made of polyester, which may not be as durable as other materials, potentially affecting its lifespan. Users should be aware that the filter will need to be replaced regularly, depending on air quality and usage, which can add to ongoing costs.

The AprilAire 213 Replacement Filter is best suited for those who prioritize air quality, particularly allergy sufferers. It's easy to install and effective in trapping allergens, but users should be mindful of its compatibility with their systems and the need for regular replacements.