Keeping your furnace filter in good working order is essential for improving the quality of the air you breathe every day. The NORDIC Pure MERV 12 pleated AC furnace filter is our top pick for the best overall furnace filter. It has a high-efficiency rating of MERV-12, which means it can trap a large number of dust particles and other air pollutants. Pet owners may prefer the Aerostar MERV 11 pleated air filter, which is designed to capture pet dander and other allergens.
The Filtrete AC furnace air filter is our best replacement filter for general furnaces and comes in more than a dozen sizes. It has a MERV-12 rating, making it an excellent choice for homeowners who want to trap as many airborne debris as possible. The Air-Care permanent electrostatic air filter is a great option if you're looking for a durable, low-maintenance furnace filter. You can also enable automatic reordering by activating Alexa, so you'll always have a new filter ready when the current one expires.
When selecting a furnace filter, it's important to consider its MERV rating (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value). A higher MERV rating indicates finer filtration, which will help keep your home air fresh and allergen-free. Disposable furnace filters often have cardboard frames that can be crushed, torn, or bent during installation, so it's best to opt for a permanent electrostatic air filter if possible. The Filtrete Advanced Allergen Reduction Air Filter has a 1500 MPR rating patented by 3M, which is comparable to the MERV 12 rating.
The Nordic Pure MERV 12 pleated air conditioning furnace filters are easy to change and block a high level of dust and other airborne contaminants that could otherwise end up in the oven or be recirculated throughout the house. If you have pets at home, you may want to equip your furnace with an air filter designed specifically for homes with pets. This will help reduce pet dander and odors in your home. To be effective, an air filter must be efficient at capturing airborne particulates without restricting too much airflow to the air conditioning unit.
If you or someone in your household has environmental allergies or is generally sensitive to common household irritants, you may want to opt for a washable filter that provides more filtration than disposable filters. The Aerostar recommends changing this type of filter every two or three months in autumn and spring, and once a month during heavy furnace use in winter. Changing your furnace filter regularly (ideally every three months) will help prevent dust and other particles from damaging the working parts of the oven, such as the heating coils and fan.
