20x23x1 air filter for furnace & HVAC systems

Best 20x23x1 air filters: How to buy the right one

20x23x1 air filters are used in many residential HVAC systems. When the right MERV rating is selected for your specific property, these filters can trap larger particulates, such as dust, debris, pet dander, and hair, to maintain good indoor air quality.

In this post, we'll discuss 20x23x1 air filter HVAC compatibility, performance characteristics, replacement frequencies, and more to help you make an informed, confident purchase.

HVAC systems that use 20x23x1 air filters

20x23x1 air filters are used in residential furnaces, air handling units, air conditioner units, and heat pumps that accommodate this size. Carrier, Honeywell, Aprilaire, and Filtrete are just a few of the HVAC name brands that manufacture units compatible with 20x23x1 filters. They're often installed in return air vents on walls or ceilings, or directly on the furnace blower or within the air handling unit. In some cases, the filters are installed behind return grilles in hallways, attics, closets, or even basements.

How do you know if your HVAC system is designed to work with a 20x23x1 air filter, especially because this isn't one of the more common air filter sizes? Follow these steps to find out:

• Open your current filter and find the marked size. You can usually locate these in a corner of the filter.
• Check your HVAC system manual and see what type of filter the manufacturer recommends for best performance.
• You can also measure the filter media cabinet yourself using a tape measure. Just be sure to round up to the nearest inch to find the nominal size and determine the proper filter dimensions for your unit.

Performance characteristics of 20x23x1 filters

Though the length and width of filters vary by HVAC system, 1-inch-thick filters are the most common type used in residential units. One-inch filters effectively capture large particles, such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens, as long as they're changed regularly.

One-inch filters need to be replaced every 30 to 90 days, depending on household conditions. For instance, households with pets are likely to change their filters more regularly than households without pets to ensure proper filter performance.

1-inch filters require more frequent replacement than thicker filters such as the 2-inch or 4-inch filters because they have less surface area to capture pollutants, allergens, and other contaminants. However, they're also more affordable than thicker filters, making regular replacements more cost-effective.

MERV rating selection for 20x23x1 applications

20x23x1 air filters are available in different Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) ratings: MERV 8, MERV 11, MERV 13, and MERV 8 carbon (odor control). The higher the MERV rating, the more particles the filter can capture. Yet, a higher MERV rating isn't the best option for all HVAC systems and all types of households.

20x23x1 filter MERV ratings

Here's an overview of MERV ratings pertaining to 1-inch filters and what you should consider when making your selection:

• MERV 8: These air filters capture up to 90% of common large particles, such as dust, dust mites, pollen, mold, bacteria, and pet dander. They're ideal for households without pets and for residents who don't experience severe allergies or asthma. MERV 8 filters are also well-suited for lower airflow HVAC systems.
• MERV 11: Ideal in households if residents are more sensitive to common allergens, MERV 11 filters offer enhanced filtration, capturing up to 95% of common particles, including smoke and smog.
• MERV 13: These are high-efficiency filters that capture up to 98% of particles, including allergens and smoke. They're best suited for high-efficiency HVAC systems and homes with residents who experience severe allergic reactions or who've been diagnosed with respiratory conditions. They're also ideal for homes with pets, residents who smoke indoors, or properties in areas with environmental pollution.
• MERV 8 carbon: Best suited to homes with multiple pets or indoor smokers, MERV 8 carbon filters have odor-eliminating capabilities. These filters are ideal for balancing odor control and particle filtration while maximizing airflow efficiency.

Common applications for 20x23x1 air filters

20x23x1 air filters are most commonly used in small to medium-sized residential properties, often serving as the primary filter for furnaces, air conditioners, or heating systems. This size can be used in vertical and horizontal HVAC units. Common applications include:

• Standard HVAC systems and configurations
• HVAC systems with accessible return grilles
• Older, low-efficiency units

Air filter dimensions vary by HVAC unit, but the 1-inch thickness is the most common in residential systems. Homeowners tend to prefer this filter size for its combination of high quality and great price. While these filters require more frequent replacement than thicker filters, they offer optimal protection against harmful particles, resulting in cleaner air.

Best 20x23x1 air filters for household needs

Wondering what 20x23x1 MERV rating is right for your household? Here's a guide to match MERV rating to your property's specific needs:

• Standard homes: MERV 8 or MERV 11
• Pet owners: MERV 11 or MERV 8 carbon (odor control)
• Allergy sufferers: MERV 13
• Homes with odor concerns: MERV 8 carbon filters (odor control)
• Homes with older HVAC units: MERV 8 or MERV 11

Replacement frequency for 20x23x1 filters

To ensure premium indoor air quality and air flow, 20x23x1 air filters should be replaced every 30 to 90 days. Here's a guide to replacement frequency based on your specific household:

When is monthly replacement recommended?

Household factors that often require monthly air filter replacement include homes with pets or high-dust environments. Monthly replacement of 20x23x1 air filters should also be considered if household residents have heightened allergies or respiratory conditions.

When is quarterly replacement recommended?

Quarterly 20x23x1 air filter replacements are common in the average small to medium-sized home, especially if your system isn't heavily used.

How to tell if your filter needs to be replaced

There are several signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for that indicate air filter replacement, including:

• You notice reduced airflow coming from your vents.
• Members of your household are experiencing more regular allergic reactions.
• Your system is running for longer periods.
• Dust buildup appears to have increased around your property.

If you notice any of these, perform a visual inspection on your filter to see if it requires replacement. Old filters tend to be dark gray, dusty, or show noticeable debris buildup. Consider removing your filter and holding it up to the light. If no light passes through it, it should be replaced.

Installing 20x23x1 filters correctly

Installing a 20x23x1 filter is a simple, straightforward task. Here's an overview of the process:

1. Turn off your HVAC unit.
2. Locate the return grille or furnace filter slot and access the filter. (You might consider taking a photo of it for reference when you install the new air filter.)
3. Remove the old filter and properly discard it.
4. Slide the new filter into place according to its direction arrow.
5. Secure the grill or cover.

If done correctly and with the proper size, the air filter should fit snugly and there should be no gaps where any air could bypass the filter. You should be able to install the new filter without having to force or bend it into place.

Quality factors in 20x23x1 filters

Not all air filters are created equal. At Filter King, we pride ourselves on carrying only the highest-quality manufactured air filters. Here's a look at some of the factors that separate our air filters from other lower-quality options:

• Accurate dimensions to ensure they fit perfectly in your HVAC unit.
• Rigid paperboard frames on both sides of the filter to make it more durable. Filters from many other manufacturers only include paperboard around the edges and one side of the filter.
• MERV rating certification. Other manufacturers don't justify their MERV claims.
• Appropriate pleat density relative to the filter's size and 1-inch thickness.
• Consistent product availability and timely delivery so you can always access a filter when you need it.

Your 20x23x1 filter buying guide

Ready to purchase your next air filter?

First, verify that your system can accommodate a 20x23x1 size by checking your current filter, your HVAC manual, or measuring your filter housing and rounding up to determine its nominal size.

Once you've confirmed that your unit accommodates the 20x23x1 size, assess your household's air quality needs and unit recommendations to determine the proper MERV rating.

From here, place your order. Since 1-inch filters need more frequent replacement than thicker filters, you can save money by ordering in bulk or opting for a subscription-based program that delivers a new filter at a scheduled frequency. At Filter King, we offer both bulk purchasing and subscription options to maximize your convenience, help you save on costs, and ensure you always have a fresh filter when you need it.