Filtrete 20x20x1 AC Furnace Air Filter, MERV 5, MPR 300, Capture Unwanted Particles, 3-Month Pleated 1-Inch Electrostatic Air Cleaning Filter, 6-Pack (Actual Size19.69×19.69×0.81 in)

Filtrete 20x20x1 AC Furnace Air Filter Review
The Filtrete 20x20x1 AC Furnace Air Filter is a reliable and cost-effective option for improving indoor air quality in your home or office. Manufactured by 3M, a trusted name in air filtration, this filter is designed to capture unwanted airborne particles, offering a balance between performance and affordability. Let’s take a closer look at its features and performance.
Key Features
- Size and Compatibility: The Filtrete 20x20x1 filter comes in the standard 20x20x1 inch size, with an actual size of 19.69 x 19.69 x 0.81 inches. This makes it suitable for many common residential air conditioning and furnace systems that use a 1-inch thick filter. It’s important to check the dimensions of your HVAC system to ensure proper fit.
- MERV 5 Rating: The MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) 5 rating indicates that this filter is effective at capturing large particles such as dust, lint, pollen, and pet dander, with particle sizes ranging from 3 to 10 microns. While it doesn’t offer the highest filtration efficiency (compared to higher MERV-rated filters), it strikes a good balance for general household use and offers decent filtration for homes with average air quality needs.
- MPR 300: This MPR (Micro-Particle Performance Rating) 300 means the filter captures a moderate amount of airborne particles, with an emphasis on trapping particles as small as 0.3 microns. For most homes, this will handle common allergens, dust, and other pollutants without the added cost of higher MPR-rated filters.
- Pleated Design: The pleated design increases the surface area of the filter, which improves its ability to trap particles while allowing for better airflow. This helps maintain the efficiency of your HVAC system while still capturing a good amount of contaminants. It’s also designed to last longer compared to flat filters, with a recommended replacement cycle of about 3 months.
- Electrostatic Technology: The electrostatic charge in the filter helps attract and hold onto dust and dirt particles, enhancing its ability to trap unwanted pollutants from the air. The electrostatic feature is especially beneficial for catching lighter particles that might otherwise pass through conventional fiberglass filters.
- 6-Pack Value: The Filtrete 20x20x1 filter comes in a convenient 6-pack, making it a cost-effective option for households that need to replace their filters regularly. With each filter lasting up to 3 months, the pack provides you with a full year of filtration. This is especially helpful if you want to stock up and avoid the hassle of frequent reordering.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Filtrete 20x20x1 filter is a solid choice for standard residential environments. It provides a noticeable improvement in air quality, especially if you have pets, live in a dusty area, or suffer from seasonal allergies. It effectively reduces the amount of dust, pet dander, and pollen circulating through your HVAC system, which can make a noticeable difference in your home’s air quality.
- Airflow: The pleated design allows for good airflow while still maintaining effective filtration, which is important for ensuring your HVAC system runs smoothly without overworking the system.
- Filtration Efficiency: While the MERV 5 rating isn’t the highest available, it still provides sufficient filtration for typical residential air quality issues. If you have specific concerns, such as a high level of smoke, bacteria, or viruses in your environment, you may want to opt for a filter with a higher MERV rating, but for most households, this is more than adequate.
- Durability: These filters are designed to last up to 3 months, though this can vary depending on factors like the air quality in your home, the number of pets, and how often your HVAC system runs. For homes with moderate air quality concerns, the 3-month lifespan is typically accurate. For homes with heavier pollutants or more active systems, replacing the filter sooner may be necessary.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable and cost-effective, especially with the 6-pack bundle.
- Moderate MERV 5 and MPR 300 rating offers adequate filtration for common household needs like dust, pollen, and pet dander.
- Pleated electrostatic design improves air cleaning while maintaining good airflow, helping your HVAC system perform efficiently.
- Easy to install and fits most 1-inch thickness HVAC systems.
- Durable and long-lasting—typically needs replacing every 3 months.
Cons:
- Not ideal for high-efficiency filtration: For those with more serious concerns like mold, bacteria, or fine particulate matter, a higher MERV rating is recommended.
- May need more frequent replacement in dusty or high-traffic homes to maintain optimal air quality.
Conclusion
The Filtrete 20x20x1 AC Furnace Air Filter is an excellent choice for most households looking for an affordable, moderate-performance air filter. It provides effective filtration for common particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander, while maintaining good airflow and system efficiency. The MERV 5 rating makes it suitable for general air quality improvement, though it may not be ideal for households with specific health concerns or high levels of airborne contaminants.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and reliable filter that will provide solid performance for typical residential use, the Filtrete 20x20x1 filter offers great value, especially when purchased in bulk with the 6-pack option. For households with more serious air quality needs, consider opting for a higher MERV-rated filter.