Better Air Filter Finder

Better choices, backed by evidence

A filter is more
than its MERV.

Higher MERV does not automatically mean more resistance. Start with what fits. Then look at what the filter actually does.

Find your filterExplore the evidence
Filtrete 300 MPR package, MERV 5MERV 5300 MPR0.31Filtrete 1900 MPR package, MERV 13MERV 131900 MPR0.26Filtrete 2500 MPR package, MERV 14MERV 142500 MPR0.36

Printed initial pressure drop · in. w.c. at 1,025 CFM. Nominal 16 × 25 × 1 packages shown.

The photographed 1900 MPR / MERV 13 is lowest in our 11-record MERV 5–14 group. Actual dimensions vary; test conditions are incomplete. See the full comparison and MERV 1 exclusion.

First, get the fit right

What do you know about your filter?

I know my sizeStart with the dimensions on your filter.I know my modelUse a filter or cabinet number.I’m not sureIdentify your slot, cabinet or rail setup.

A closer look at the label

More capture.
Less resistance?

These Filtrete packages tell a useful story. The photographed 1900 MPR / MERV 13 has lower printed initial resistance than the other MERV 5–14 filters in this group.

Nominal 16 × 25 × 1 in · 11 package records · 5 shared airflows

See every point and source →
Package ratingPressure drop · in. w.c.
MERV 5MPR 300 · 3-pack0.31MERV 5MPR 300 · 1-pack0.31MERV 8MPR 700 · 1-pack0.32MERV 10MPR 800 · 2-pack0.32MERV 11MPR 1085 · 2-pack0.29MERV 11MPR 1000 · 2-pack0.32MERV 12MPR 1500 · 1-pack0.31MERV 12MPR 1500 · 2-pack0.31MERV 12MPR 1500 · Smart0.30MERV 13MPR 1900 · 1-pack0.26MERV 14MPR 2500 · 4-pack0.36

Lower means less resistance at this airflow. This is a comparison of printed claims, with different actual dimensions and incomplete test conditions. It does not establish the best filter for your system.

What was excluded?

The MERV 1 flat-panel filter has still lower resistance. It is outside this MERV 5–14 pleated-filter group, and remains visible in the catalog. Other thicknesses and disputed tables are excluded. Package variants are kept separate.

Five things worth checking

Meet FACES.

A practical way to choose a filter. No score to chase, just better questions to ask.

Get to know your filter →
FFitWill it fit and seal?AAirflowWhat resistance does it add?CCaptureWhich particles does it capture?EEnduranceHow does it change as it loads?SSpendingWhat will it cost to keep using?

From the field

Fit first.
Then filtration.

The number on the box is only part of the choice. Check the cabinet, rails and actual dimensions before buying. A filter that leaves a gap lets air go around the media.

Better Air Spokane · practitioner guidance

Our AprilAire recommendations reflect field experience and documented cabinet relationships. The evidence catalog includes every photographed brand, including products we do not recommend or sell.

Have an AprilAire 1410? Start here →