Actual size: 15.5 x 19.5 x 1.75 inches
Pleated air filters suitable for furnaces, ACs and residential HVAC systems
MERV 8 filters remove up to 90% of common household particles including dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. These filters provide basic air quality for standard homes without allergies.
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MERV 8 air filters are ideal for homes seeking improved air quality and standard filtration. These filters are best in homes where pet dander is lower and there are no risks of outdoor pollution or construction. MERV 8 air filters provide sustainable air filtration without a high efficiency system in place. They capture up to 90% of particles and are generally used in family homes and smaller offices.
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Check the label on your current filter or use a tape measure to get the exact length, width, and depth before selecting your size.
Nominal size
Nominal size is what you normally see printed on the label. This is usually a rounded size which is often not the true size of your filter.
Actual size
Actual size is the true size of the air filter, usually written in smaller font below the nominal size.
Measure your current air filter or the length, width, and depth of the opening slot to get the actual size. Round it up to the nearest whole inch to get the nominal size.
Installing 16x20x2 air filters couldn't be easier. Just make sure to align the arrow printed on the side with the airflow direction!
Remove the air filter from the package
Locate the arrow and point it in the direction of the fan
Slide the filter in to the slot of the central unit
For return grills, insert the filter into the grill, pointing the arrow inwards
For best indoor air quality, we recommend you change your filters regularly at different times depending on your situation.
Replace your air filter every 6 weeks to minimize the circulation of bacteria and allergens in the air.
Replace air filters every 2 months to reduce odors as well as pet dander and hair buildup in your system.
Replace your air filter every 2-3 months to reduce airborne particles and maintain cleaner indoor air.
Keeping your air filter replacement schedule in mind can be challenging to say the least. Make your life easier with Filter King's auto delivery.
The actual size of a 16x20x2 air filter is approximately 15.5 x 19.5 x 1.75 inches when ordering from FilterKing. Manufacturers undersize filters so they fit securely in the filter rack's environment without bending the box itself. Always buy the listed size your system specifies to ensure proper sealing while preventing bypass.
No. You cannot use a 2-inch filter in a 1-inch slot. You'll want to find the perfect size for ideal airflow at a good price. Forcing a 2-inch filter into a 1-inch slot can damage the filter, block airflow, and prevent the cover from closing properly.
Replace your 16x20x2 air filter every 3–6 months to reduce energy costs and to help ensure proper airflow throughout your home. Houses with pets, constant HVAC system usage, or high dust may consider replacing these filters closer to 3 months.
No, a MERV 13 filter does not restrict airflow if the system supports 2-inch filters. The extra cost results in added depth that provides more surface area than a 1-inch filter, which helps with managing resistance. Confirm your HVAC system allows MERV 13 and monitor airflow after installation. Determine the actual size of the filter before installing it for the best results.
Yes, 2-inch filters are often harder to find than 1-inch filters because fewer systems use them. Understanding the actual size of the filter you need is important to ensure you buy the right ones consistently. Buying online before you replace your filter is highly recommended to ensure you are getting exactly what you need.
No. These filters are built to be disposable, not washable. Washing damages the filter media and reduces particle capture. Once the filter loads with dust, replacement is the way to go.
A 16x20x2 air filter has more media than a typical 1-inch filter, which allows longer life and steadier airflow. A 2-inch filter also typically lasts between 3–6 months, while a 1-inch filter lasts 1–3 months in total. Additional information can be found on filter labels to ensure you are installing the right filter for your home's system.
Choose a 16x20x2 filter if you want longer filter life without installing a new and separate media cabinet. Four-inch filters require cabinet upgrades and higher upfront costs. A 2-inch filter offers fewer replacements than 1-inch options while fitting seamlessly into systems already designed for deeper racks.
MERV 8 filters