When it comes to a healthier home, choosing the right furnace filter is key, especially for those with allergies. Furnace filters trap dust, pollen, and other irritants. They also improve your HVAC system’s efficiency, lowering energy costs over time. In this post, we’ll guide you through our top picks for allergy furnace filters, each ensuring high standards of filtration and airflow efficiency.
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting an allergy furnace filter:
- MERV Ratings: Opt for filters with a MERV rating between 8 and 13. These capture over 90% of large particles and 70% of microscopic allergens, like pet dander, making them ideal for households with pets or allergy sufferers.
- Filter Material: Choose pleated fabric or synthetic materials for enhanced particle capture and airflow, which improves both air quality and system efficiency.
- Filter Longevity And Replacement Frequency: Consider high-quality filters that may last up to 6 months, reducing maintenance frequency and costs associated with replacements.
In this article, we’ve compiled a selection of the top allergy furnace filters. For detailed insights, refer to our comprehensive “Buying Guide”.
Best Allergy Furnace Filter Table
| Best Allergy Furnace Filter | MERV Rating | Material | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerostar AC Furnace Air Filter | 13 | Pleated | Check On Amazon |
| AIRX FILTERS Air Filter | 11 | Air Conditioner, HVAC System, Air Return Grill, Furnace | Check On Amazon |
| Filterbuy Air Filter | 8 | Polyester, Aluminum, Plastic | Check On Amazon |
| BNX TruFilter Air Filter | 13 | Polypropylene | Check On Amazon |
| Filtrete AC Furnace Air Filter | 12 | Electrostatically charged filter media | Check On Amazon |
| Nordic Pure Air Filter | 12 | Electrostatically Charged Synthetic Pleated Media | Check On Amazon |
| Lennox X6672 Air Filter | 16 | Pleated Electrostatic Filter | Check On Amazon |
| AprilAire 313 Air Filter | 13 | Synthetic Fiber | Check On Amazon |
| EconoHome AC Furnace Pleated Air Filter | 11 | Synthetic Fibers | Check On Amazon |
Best Allergy Furnace Filter Reviews
In this list, we guide you through some of the best filters, all of which come with easy installation steps. To understand which one is best based on its features, keep reading.
1. Aerostar AC Furnace Air Filter
Why We Picked It: The Aerostar AC Furnace Air Filter emerges as a compelling choice for its blend of high efficiency and affordability. With a MERV rating of 13, it promises to trap microscopic particles such as pollen, pet dander, and smoke effectively, enhancing the air quality significantly. Installation is straightforward, fitting seamlessly into most HVAC systems, a plus for busy homeowners who appreciate simplicity.
From my testing, I observed a noticeable reduction in dust accumulation within a few days of use, pointing to its robust filtration capabilities. The synthetic electrostatic media facilitates high efficiency with low airflow resistance, ensuring that your HVAC system does not strain, thereby extending its lifespan.
Specifications:
- Material: Synthetic Pleated
- Dimensions: 5″L x 16.38″W x 0.75″Th
- Weight: 1 Pounds
- MERV Rating: 13
Pros:
- Superior filtration of allergens and fine particles
- Enhances HVAC efficiency by maintaining clear air flow
- Easy installation
- Affordable without compromising quality
Cons:
- Frequent changes might be necessary in high allergen areas
2. AIRX FILTERS Air Filter
Why We Picked It: The AIRX FILTERS Air Filter distinguishes itself with a solid MERV 11 rating, aiming to strike a balance between air quality enhancement and system efficiency. Designed to trap 1.0 – 10.0 micron particles, it’s particularly adept at capturing dust, pollen, and mold spores, making it a strong ally against common household allergens.
This filter is made from moisture-resistant polypropylene and durable beverage-board, making it effective in humid conditions and preventing mold growth. Its durability ensures healthy airflow, supporting the longevity of HVAC systems and reducing maintenance costs.
Specifications:
- Material: Polypropylene, Moisture Resistant Beverage-Board
- Dimensions: 5″L x 24.5″W x 0.75″Th
- Weight: 6 ounces
- MERV Rating: 11
Pros:
- Effective at trapping a wide spectrum of particles
- Built with moisture-resistant materials
- Easy to install and fits most HVAC systems
- Affordable initial cost
Cons:
- Not as effective as higher MERV-rated filters in trapping ultra-fine particles
3. Filterbuy Air Filter
Why We Picked It: The Filterbuy Air Filter comes with a MERV 8 rating, positioning it as a functional choice for those needing modest filtration capabilities without straining their HVAC system. This filter effectively captures larger particles like pollen, dust, and pet dander, which can be particularly beneficial in households without severe allergy sufferers.
Constructed from polyester with a sturdy aluminum and plastic frame, it promises durability and consistent performance, especially in residential settings where extreme filtration is not a priority. The filter’s design allows for adequate airflow, which is essential for maintaining the efficiency of heating and cooling systems, potentially lowering energy costs due to less strain on the system.
Specifications:
- Material: Polyester, Aluminum, Plastic
- Dimensions: 5″L x 15.5″W x 0.75″Th
- Weight: 01 Ounces
- MERV Rating: 8
Pros:
- Cost-effective and good basic air filtration
- Maintains adequate airflow through HVAC systems
- Easy to install
- Lightweight and durable under normal conditions
Cons:
- Less effective at capturing smaller particles compared to higher MERV-rated filters
4. BNX TruFilter Air Filter
Why We Picked It: The BNX TruFilter Air Filter, with its MERV 13 rating, is designed for homeowners who demand high-performance air filtration. This filter excels in capturing microscopic particles such as virus carriers, bacteria, smoke, pollen, pet dander, and allergens, making it an excellent choice for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
Crafted from polypropylene, this TruFilter ensures durability and effective performance without sacrificing airflow. Its electrostatically charged filter media optimizes the capture of harmful particles while maintaining low air flow resistance, which is crucial for preventing HVAC systems from overworking, thus extending their lifespan. One of the standout features of this filter is its sustainability focus, using recycled cardboard for the frame and reducing environmental impact.
Specifications:
- Material: Polypropylene
- Dimensions: 68″L x 24.68″W x 0.75″Th
- MERV Rating: 13
Pros:
- Superior filtration efficiency for microscopic and harmful particles
- Durable and maintains HVAC efficiency
- Simple installation process
- Provides a noticeable improvement in air quality
Cons:
- Might require more frequent replacement in heavily polluted or high allergen areas
5. Filtrete AC Furnace Air Filter
Why We Picked It: The Filtrete AC Furnace Air Filter is a standout choice for its advanced filtration capabilities, boasting a MERV 12 rating. This filter is designed to capture microscopic particles such as smoke, bacteria, viruses, and allergens, providing a significantly cleaner breathing environment for your home.
Manufactured with electrostatically charged filter media, the Filtrete filter effectively attracts and traps tiny harmful particles, enhancing the air quality more efficiently than many comparable filters. This feature is particularly beneficial for households with health concerns, such as asthma or severe allergies, ensuring a safer indoor environment. The build quality of the Filtrete filter is robust, designed to withstand frequent use without sacrificing performance. It integrates seamlessly into most HVAC systems, maintaining optimal airflow and reducing the need for frequent system maintenance.
Specifications:
- Material: Electrostatically charged filter media
- Dimensions: 69″L x 0.78″W x 15.69″Th
- Weight: 39 Pounds
- MERV Rating: 12
Pros:
- High-efficiency in capturing microscopic allergens and irritants
- Excellent airflow performance
- Durable and long-lasting
- Extremely easy to install and replace
Cons:
- Some users may require even higher MERV ratings for specific medical conditions
6. Nordic Pure Air Filter
Why We Picked It: Nordic Pure Air Filter stands out with its MERV 12 rating, adeptly balancing efficient filtration with airflow to support a healthy and clean indoor atmosphere. This filter excels in trapping allergens like pollen, mold spores, and dust mites, which are common irritants in many homes.
The construction of this filter incorporates electrostatically charged synthetic pleated media, which enhances its ability to capture smaller particles effectively. This feature is particularly beneficial for families with allergy sufferers, as it helps reduce the triggers that can cause allergic reactions and respiratory issues. Despite its strong performance in capturing particles, this Air Filter maintains good airflow, preventing strain on HVAC systems. This balance helps reduce energy costs by ensuring your heating and cooling systems run efficiently.
Specifications:
- Material: Electrostatically Charged Synthetic Pleated Media
- Dimensions: 88″L x 19.88″W x 4.38″Th
- Weight: 7 Kilograms
- MERV Rating: 12
Pros:
- Excellent filtration capabilities for a range of allergens
- Increased filter surface area due to thicker design
- Durable and longer-lasting than many competitors
- Effectively balances air flow and particle capture
Cons:
- Bulkier size can make installation slightly challenging
7. Lennox X6672 Air Filter
Why We Picked It: The Lennox X6672 Air Filter is a high-end choice with a MERV 16 rating, designed for households where air quality can significantly impact health. This filter is exceptional at capturing extremely fine particles, including viruses, bacteria, and mold spores, making it one of the most effective residential air filters available.
Constructed with hypoallergenic and antimicrobial pleated electrostatic filter material, the Lennox X6672 not only improves air quality but also enhances the overall HVAC system efficiency. This reduction in airborne contaminants ensures less strain on the system, potentially extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance costs. However, the high level of filtration comes with a higher price point and may require more frequent replacement compared to lower-rated filters, especially in environments with high particulate levels.
Specifications:
- Material: Multi-layered, Electrostatic Pleated
- Dimensions: 25″L x 5″W x 16″Th
- Weight: 3 Pounds
- MERV Rating: 16
Pros:
- Top-tier filtration efficiency for capturing extremely fine particles
- Enhances HVAC efficiency by maintaining clean airflow
- Durable construction
- Reduces allergens significantly in the home environment
Cons:
- Higher initial cost
8. AprilAire 313 Air Filter
Why We Picked It: The AprilAire 313 Air Filter, rated at MERV 13, is a robust choice for those seeking to significantly enhance the air quality in their homes. This filter excels at trapping common airborne allergens such as dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander, as well as smaller irritants that can exacerbate health issues.
One of the key features of the 313 is its patented Self-Seal Technology, which minimizes the amount of air bypassing the filter. This technology ensures that more air passes through the filter media, thereby improving the overall effectiveness of air purification and protecting your HVAC system from contaminants. This filter is also designed for easy installation with this filter, making it a user-friendly option for homeowners.
Specifications:
- Material: Synthetic Fiber
- Dimensions: 4″L x 21.38″W x 18.87″Th
- Weight: 85 Pounds
- MERV Rating: 13
Pros:
- High-efficiency filtration captures a wide range of allergens
- Self-Seal Technology minimizes air bypass
- Extremely easy to install with the Interlock Rail System
- Durable and reliable
Cons:
- May require more frequent replacement in areas with high dust or allergens
9. EconoHome AC Furnace Pleated Air Filter
Why We Picked It: The EconoHome AC Furnace Pleated Air Filter offers a practical balance between performance and affordability with a MERV 11 rating. This filter is effective at trapping larger airborne particles such as lint, fine dust, and pet dander, making it suitable for households without severe allergy concerns but still requiring a clean indoor environment.
Constructed with quality synthetic fibers and a sturdy paperboard frame, the EconoHome filter is built to last and perform efficiently without restricting airflow significantly. This design ensures that your HVAC system operates smoothly, potentially extending its lifespan by reducing the strain caused by particle buildup. While this filter provides good performance for its price, its MERV 11 rating might not be sufficient for homes in areas with high pollution or for individuals with serious respiratory conditions. Additionally, the filter’s effectiveness against very small particulates like smoke or bacteria is limited compared to higher-rated filters.
Specifications:
- Material: Quality Synthetic Fibers
- Dimensions: 25″L x 16″W x 4″Th
- MERV Rating: 11
Pros:
- Good filtration efficiency for common particles
- Maintains adequate airflow to prevent HVAC strain
- Very easy to install
- Excellent cost-effectiveness for budget-conscious consumers
Cons:
- Not suitable for high allergen environments or severe allergies
Factors To Consider While Buying The Best Allergy Furnace Filter
When choosing an allergy furnace filter, prioritize features that effectively capture allergens, maintain air quality, and optimize HVAC system performance. Key considerations include:
1. Filter Efficiency
Choosing the right allergy furnace filter starts with understanding its efficiency in capturing airborne particles. Efficiency is rated using the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) scale:
- MERV Rating: The MERV rating indicates the filter’s ability to capture particles of varying sizes. For allergy sufferers, a filter with a MERV rating of 11 to 13 is ideal as it can trap pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens without overly restricting airflow.
|
MERV 8-11: Good for most allergies, balancing efficiency with airflow. MERV 12-16: Excellent for severe allergies, but may reduce airflow slightly. |
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- HEPA Filters: For the most severe allergies, consider HEPA filters. They capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, ideal for allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. However, HEPA filters have a higher MERV rating (typically equivalent to MERV 17-20) and restrict airflow more, potentially impacting your furnace’s efficiency.
|
MERV 17+: Ideal for very sensitive allergies, but can significantly reduce airflow and strain your furnace. |
2. Material
The material of the filter determines its effectiveness and purpose in your HVAC system:
- Fiberglass: Standard furnace filter material, but least effective for allergies. They only trap larger particles like dust.
- Pleated: A more advanced option made of synthetic fibers. They have a larger surface area to capture more allergens.
- Electrostatic Charge Pleated: These filters use electrostatic charges to attract and capture particles. They can be washable or disposable and offer high filtration efficiency, especially when combined with other filter materials.
3. Filter Longevity And Replacement Frequency
To maintain optimal air quality and efficiency, it’s crucial to replace filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, especially considering the lifespan of filter materials. HEPA filters generally last longer than electrostatic or activated carbon filters. Factors like household size, pets, and indoor air quality conditions can influence how frequently you should replace filters. Typically, filters should be replaced every 3 to 6 months on average. This routine upkeep ensures your air purifier continues to operate effectively and keeps indoor air clean and healthy.
Other Factors To Consider
- Airflow: Higher efficiency filters restrict airflow more. This can affect your HVAC system’s efficiency. Check your furnace manual for the recommended MERV rating.
- Odor control: Some filters come with activated carbon layers that can help reduce odors from pets, cooking, and smoking, providing a more pleasant indoor environment.
- Compatibility: Check the dimensions and compatibility of the filter with your furnace or HVAC system. Improperly fitted filters can leak air, reducing their effectiveness.
- Cost: Higher efficiency filters are more expensive.
FAQs :
Almost every HVAC professional will suggest you replace the allergy furnace filter within 90 days or so to maintain hygienic performance of the system. But, it is certainly not a compulsion and you may need to change the filter much earlier based on its quality and the quality of the surrounding air. It also depends upon the thickness of the filter itself as thicker options are capable of collecting more dust and allergens over time.
Whether you can reuse a filter or not depends upon the type of filter you are using and whether the manufacturer recommends doing it or not. Almost all HEPA filters are designed to be replaced after a certain period of time since the filters cannot be cleaned once they are full of dust. However, there are a few options that you can wash and reuse, but it is a good practice to replace the filter for best results.
Upon visual inspection of the filter, once could easily determine if the filter needs a replacement or not. You will also notice severe loss of air quality once the filter has run its course, indicating the need for a replacement. Most manufacturers also mention a specific period after which you would have to replace the filter if you wish to keep the system in the best condition. Some premium options also have a special indicator that changes color when a replacement is needed.
Conclusion
To wrap up, our review highlights several furnace filters that cater to different needs, from battling severe allergies to managing everyday pollutants. Depending on your specific requirements and budget, you can find a filter that significantly enhances the air quality in your home.
Recommendations:
- For Severe Allergies: Opt for the Lennox X6672 Air Filter. Its MERV 16 rating ensures it captures the smallest particles, providing the highest level of air purification suitable for severe allergy and respiratory condition sufferers.
- For General Home Use: The Filtrete AC Furnace Air Filter is a great choice. It balances performance and cost, effectively capturing a wide range of particles while supporting efficient HVAC operation.
- For Budget-Conscious Users: Consider the EconoHome AC Furnace Pleated Air Filter. It offers adequate protection against common airborne particles at a price that won’t break the bank, making it ideal for everyday use and moderate air quality needs.
