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Best Filter For Air Conditioner (2025 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to improve the air quality in your home, an air conditioner filter may be just what you need. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. But don’t worry, we’re here to help guide you through the process.

Before purchasing an air conditioner filter, consider the size of your unit, the type of filter you want, and the level of filtration you need. You’ll also want to take into account the cost and how often the filter needs to be changed. By doing your research and weighing the factors, you can ensure you’re making the best choice for your home and budget.

Are you tired of constantly feeling stuffy in your own home? Do you want to protect your family from allergens and pollutants? Investing in the right air conditioner filter can make all the difference. But with so many options out there, how can you be sure you’re getting the best one? Keep reading to find out the key factors to consider before making your purchase, and discover how you can easily improve the air quality in your home today.

10 Best Filter For Air Conditioner

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The air filter is ideal for removing basic dust particles from indoor air.
2
The product is ideal for cooling large indoor spaces efficiently and easily, with a washable filter and eco mode.
3
Ideal for reducing pet odor and capturing pet hair in HVAC systems with a 16x20x1 size.
4
This product is ideal for improving indoor air quality by filtering allergens and other particles from furnace or AC systems.
5
This product is ideal for cooling and dehumidifying rooms up to 500 square feet with added air filter features.
6
This air filter is ideal for improving indoor air quality and reducing allergens in homes or buildings.
7
The product is ideal for improving the air quality in a room through filtering out impurities.
8
Ideal for cooling and dehumidifying rooms up to 400 sq ft with an activated carbon filter for improved air quality.
9
Ideal for cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and improving air quality in rooms up to 400 square feet.
10
Ideal for improving air quality in residential and commercial heating and cooling systems.
The air filter is ideal for removing basic dust particles from indoor air.
The product is ideal for cooling large indoor spaces efficiently and easily, with a washable filter and eco mode.
Ideal for reducing pet odor and capturing pet hair in HVAC systems with a 16x20x1 size.
This product is ideal for improving indoor air quality by filtering allergens and other particles from furnace or AC systems.
This product is ideal for cooling and dehumidifying rooms up to 500 square feet with added air filter features.
This air filter is ideal for improving indoor air quality and reducing allergens in homes or buildings.
The product is ideal for improving the air quality in a room through filtering out impurities.
Ideal for cooling and dehumidifying rooms up to 400 sq ft with an activated carbon filter for improved air quality.
Ideal for cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and improving air quality in rooms up to 400 square feet.
Ideal for improving air quality in residential and commercial heating and cooling systems.

1. Filtrete Clean Living Air Filter Collection

The 3M Filtrete Brand 3-in-1 Technology pleated air filter is a high-performance replacement for fiberglass, washable and non-electrostatic 3-month pleated 1 in. air filters in your furnace, air conditioner or HVAC system. This filter is designed to trap unwanted air particles while letting cleaner air flow through. It is designed with MPR 300 (MERV 5) rating, which means it can attract and capture large particles such as lint, household dust and dust mite debris. The higher the MPR, the more microparticles – such as pollen, pet dander, and smoke – your filter will capture from the air passing through it. This filter is easy to install and replace, and it is recommended to change it every three months to maintain optimal air quality.

Made with high-quality materials, this air filter offers superior filtration performance and can help reduce indoor allergens and pollutants. The exclusive Filtrete Brand 3-in-1 technology ensures that the air filter attracts and captures large particles, while allowing clean air to flow freely through the filter. This means that you can enjoy clean, healthy air in your home all year round.

The 3M Filtrete pleated air filter is a great choice for those who want to improve indoor air quality and protect their HVAC system. The filter is designed to last up to three months, making it a cost-effective solution to maintaining healthy air in your home. With its MPR 300 rating, you can be confident that this filter will effectively capture and remove large particles from your indoor air, giving you peace of mind and a healthier living environment.

Pros

  • High-performance replacement for fiberglass, washable and non-electrostatic 3-month pleated 1 in. air filters
  • Designed with exclusive Filtrete Brand 3-in-1 technology from 3M to trap unwanted air particles while letting cleaner air flow through
  • Attracts and captures large particles such as lint, household dust and dust mite debris
  • Easy to install and replace
  • Can help reduce indoor allergens and pollutants

Cons

  • – May not capture the smallest microparticles as effectively as higher-rated filters

2. Slide-Out Eco Air Conditioner, 28k Btu

Looking for a reliable and efficient air conditioner? Look no further than this unit, which features an easy installation process. The slide-out chassis distributes the weight into two pieces, making it a breeze to install. Once set up, you'll love the multi-directional airflow, which provides six-way directional airflow and three different fan speeds. You'll also appreciate the easy-to-clean washable filter, which captures dust from the air and keeps your air conditioner working efficiently. Plus, the Clean Filter Alert will notify you when it's time to clean your filter.

This air conditioner also features an Eco Mode that ensures your room stays cool and comfortable. It turns on and off at different intervals to maintain the set temperature. With the Fresh Air Vent, you can draw in fresh outdoor air, which prevents the recirculation of stale air. Additionally, the programmable timer allows you to customize times to fit your schedule for immediate comfort when you get home by presetting the unit to turn on and off in half-hour increments. Enjoy maximum comfort and quiet operation throughout the night with Sleep Mode, which gradually increases the temperature a few degrees over the course of the evening.

Please note that this air conditioner is compatible with our mounting bracket (B0872ZJCB9) and side panel (B0872Y4MCL), which are sold separately.

Pros

  • Easy installation process
  • Multi-directional airflow with six-way directional airflow and three different fan speeds
  • Easy-to-clean washable filter with Clean Filter Alert feature
  • Eco Mode ensures that the room stays at a set temperature
  • Fresh Air Vent draws in fresh outdoor air, preventing the recirculation of stale air
  • Programmable timer allows for customization of on/off times
  • Sleep Mode gradually increases the temperature for comfort throughout the night

Cons

  • – Compatible mounting bracket and side panel sold separately

3. Pet Odor Control Air Filter By Colorfil

Colorfil's high-efficiency air filters are the perfect solution for pet owners who want to enjoy a clean and fresh-smelling home. Made in the USA, these filters were designed to eliminate unpleasant odors caused by pets, dust, and dirt. With Colorfil's NASA-grade filtration technology, you can rest assured that your indoor air quality is protected at all times.

Colorfil's 16x20x1 air filters are equipped with color-shift technology that gradually changes from pink to yellow as the filter absorbs and neutralizes gas-phase odors. This unique feature lets you know when it's time to replace your filter, ensuring that your air is always fresh and clean.

Unlike other air fresheners that rely on fragrances to mask odors, Colorfil's filters provide a natural and clean scent to your home. With no added scents, you can enjoy pure quality time with your pets and loved ones without worrying about unpleasant smells.

Colorfil's air filters can be easily inserted into air conditioning units, heaters, or other HVAC systems, making them a convenient and effective solution for maintaining clean and fresh indoor air quality. Trust Colorfil to be your nose's new best friend, and enjoy a happier and healthier home with your pets.

Pros

  • High-efficiency air filters designed to eliminate unpleasant odors caused by pets, dust, and dirt.
  • Equipped with color-shift technology that gradually changes from pink to yellow as the filter absorbs and neutralizes gas-phase odors.
  • Provides a natural and clean scent to your home with no added fragrances.
  • Easy to insert into air conditioning units, heaters, or other HVAC systems.

4. Filtrete Healthy Living Air Filters – 2 Pack

The Filtrete Brand 3-in-1 technology from 3M makes these 1-inch home air filters outperform fiberglass, washable, and non-electrostatic pleated filters. It is designed to trap unwanted air particles while allowing cleaner air to flow through. With a Microparticle Performance Rating (MPR) of 1500 and a rating of MERV 12, it can capture microscopic particles like smoke, cough and sneeze debris, bacteria, viruses, pollen, and large particles such as lint and household dust. The higher the MPR, the more microparticles, such as pet dander, smoke, bacteria, and viruses, the filter can capture from the air. Compared to non-electrostatic pleated filters, it is three times better at capturing small particles ranging from 0.3 to 1.0 microns. It lasts up to three months, providing you with fresh and clean air throughout the season.

The Filtrete Brand 3-in-1 technology, combined with the Microparticle Performance Rating, makes this filter an excellent choice for removing unwanted air particles. It can capture both small and large particles, from smoke, cough and sneeze debris, bacteria, viruses, pollen, lint, and household dust. It is easy to install and lasts up to three months, providing you with fresh and clean air.

If you're looking for an air filter that can capture a wide range of particles, the Filtrete Brand 3-in-1 technology filter is an excellent choice. It is three times better at capturing small particles than non-electrostatic pleated filters and lasts up to three months. With a Microparticle Performance Rating of 1500 and a MERV rating of 12, it can capture microscopic particles like smoke, bacteria, and viruses, as well as large particles such as pollen and household dust. It is easy to install and provides you with clean and fresh air.

Pros

  • Captures microscopic and large particles
  • Lasts up to three months
  • Easy to install
  • Designed with Filtrete Brand 3-in-1 technology from 3M
  • Higher MPR rating compared to other filters

Cons

  • – May not fit all furnace, air conditioner, or HVAC systems

5. Whynter's 14,000 Btu Portable Ac With Filters

Introducing the Portable AC Unit, the perfect solution to keep your room cool while adhering to the latest environmental standards and reducing energy consumption. This multipurpose air conditioner features four operational modes, which include air conditioning, fan, dehumidifier, and automatic mode. With a cooling range of 500 square feet, it is perfect for small to medium-sized rooms.

The Portable AC Unit incorporates Auto-Drain Technology that recycles moisture collected during the cooling process to produce cool air. With a dehumidifying capacity of 71 pints per day, it ensures that your room remains comfortable and breezy.

This Energy Star Rated 14,000 BTU air conditioner is not only powerful and efficient but also operates quietly at under 53 dBA. It features CFC-free Green R-32 refrigerant and lead-free RoHS-compliant components, making it an eco-friendly solution to your cooling needs.

The Portable AC Unit comes with all necessary accessories, including a window kit that measures 6.5 inches W by 20-46 inches L, an exhaust hose that extends up to 60 inches, a remote control for convenient operation, and an activated carbon air filter and SilverShield washable pre-filter that ensures clean and fresh air in your room. The user manual is also included to help you set up and operate your new air conditioner with ease.

Pros

  • Energy Star Rated 14,000 BTU portable air conditioner is powerful and efficient.
  • Multipurpose air conditioner with four operational modes: air conditioner, fan, dehumidifier, or automatic.
  • Auto-Drain Technology ensures that moisture collected during the cooling process is recycled to produce cool air.
  • Quiet operation at under 53 dBA.
  • Comes with all necessary accessories, including a window kit, exhaust hose, remote control, and filters.

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for large rooms or open spaces.
  • – May require occasional maintenance of filters for optimal performance.

6. Ultimate Allergen Air Filters: 4-Pack Filtrete Mpr 1900

The Filtrete Brand 3-in-1 technology from 3M has been exclusively designed to create a 1-inch home air filter that outperforms fiberglass, washable, and non-electrostatic 3-month pleated filters for your air conditioner, furnace, or HVAC system. It can capture microscopic particles like bacteria, viruses, smoke, cough, and sneeze debris, as well as large particles like household dust, lint, and pollen. With a 1900 MPR (Microparticle Performance Rating), this filter has a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) of 13, which indicates its capability of capturing more microparticles from the air that passes through.

The filter is an excellent choice for people who are sensitive to allergens and want to breathe cleaner air indoors. It can trap unwanted air particles while allowing cleaner air to flow through. It is an effective solution to maintain healthy indoor air quality as it can capture a wide range of pollutants that could cause health issues. The filter is easy to install and requires minimal maintenance, making it an ideal choice for people who are looking for a hassle-free solution to improve their indoor air quality.

This filter is an excellent replacement for standard filters as it can capture microparticles that standard filters can't. It is designed to attract and capture even the smallest pollutants, which means it can help reduce the number of allergens, bacteria, and viruses in the air. It is an excellent investment for people who want to improve their indoor air quality and promote a healthier home environment.

Pros

  • Exclusively designed Filtrete Brand 3-in-1 technology from 3M to trap unwanted air particles while letting cleaner air flow through
  • Captures microscopic and large particles, including bacteria, viruses, smoke, cough and sneeze debris, household dust, lint, and pollen
  • 1900 MPR rating with a MERV of 13
  • Ideal for people with allergies and sensitive to allergens
  • Easy to install and requires minimal maintenance

Cons

  • – May not fit all HVAC systems, so checking compatibility with the system is recommended
  • – More expensive than standard filters, but its efficiency justifies the cost

7. Ge Wj85x10041 Genuine Oem Air Filter For Ge Room Air Conditioner

The GE WJ85X10041 Air Filter is an authentic OEM product designed and manufactured by GE, ensuring uncompromised performance and reliability. This filter is compatible with various GE Room Air Conditioner models, and its dimensions measure L-18.5" x W-0.37" x H-9.56". The filter comes in a beige color.

The GE WJ85X10041 Air Filter is made of high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. To install the filter, refer to the instructions in the owner's manual that came with your air conditioner.

Pros

  • Authentic GE OEM product
  • Compatible with various GE Room Air Conditioner models
  • High-quality materials for durability and reliability

8. Whynter Portable Ac – Platinum & Powerful

The Portable AC Unit is a great solution for keeping your room cool while being environmentally friendly and energy-efficient. This portable air conditioner is multipurpose and can cool an area of up to 400 square feet. It has three operational modes: air conditioner, fan, and dehumidifier. The dehumidifying capacity of this portable AC unit is 91 pints per day, and it features auto-drain technology that exhausts all condensation in most environments automatically.

This 12,000 BTU portable air conditioner is powerful, efficient, and quiet. It uses CFC-free Green R-410a refrigerant and lead-free RoHS-compliant components, making it an eco-friendly choice. The noise level is kept under 52.5 dBA, so it won't disturb your peace.

This portable air conditioner comes with a protective cover, window kit, remote control, activated carbon air filter and washable pre-filter, and user manual. The exhaust hose extends up to 60 inches, and the window kit measures 6.5 inches W by 20-46 inches L. With its excellent features and accessories, this portable AC unit is a great value for money.

Pros

  • Multipurpose air conditioner that can cool up to 400 square feet
  • Dehumidifying capacity of 91 pints per day with auto-drain technology
  • Powerful, efficient, and quiet operation with a noise level under 52.5 dBA
  • Eco-friendly choice with CFC-free Green R-410a refrigerant and lead-free RoHS-compliant components
  • Comes with a protective cover, window kit, remote control, activated carbon air filter and washable pre-filter, and user manual
  • Exhaust hose extends up to 60 inches

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for larger rooms or areas
  • – Installation of the window kit may require some effort

9. Whynter Portable 4-In-1 Air Conditioning Unit

Get your hands on the award-winning portable air conditioner for high humidity by Good Housekeeping in 2022. With a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU (ASHRAE) / 6,884 BTU (SACC), it can cool up to 400 square feet of space. It also has a dehumidifying capacity of 96 pints per day, ensuring that you stay comfortable and dry in humid weather conditions.

The advanced self-evaporation system allows the unit to fully exhaust all condensate automatically in most environments, while the patented auto drain function comes with an optional upper gravity drain port. This air conditioner also has three fan speeds and an air flow of 320 m3/h / 188 CFM, ensuring that you stay cool and comfortable at all times.

In addition to cooling, this air conditioner also has three operational modes: Cool, Dehumidify, and Fan. It also has full thermostatic control, ranging from 61°F – 89°F (with ambient conditions above 41° F in heating mode), making it easy to customize the temperature to your liking. With a noise level of less than 56 dBA, it operates quietly and efficiently, ensuring that you get a peaceful night's sleep.

This air conditioner is eco-friendly and energy-efficient, with a maximum power consumption of 1100 W / 10.5 A. It uses the CFC-free Green R-410A refrigerant, making it a great choice for those who are environmentally conscious. With an activated carbon air filter and washable pre-filter, this air conditioner also ensures that the air you breathe is clean and fresh.

Setting up this portable air conditioner is easy and hassle-free, thanks to its extendable exhaust hose (up to 60″) with a 5.9″ diameter and window kit dimensions of 6.5″ W x 20″ L (minimum), 46″ (maximum). The unit dimensions are 17″ W x 15.5″ D x 31″ H, making it easy to move around to different rooms.

Pros

  • Award-winning portable air conditioner for high humidity
  • Powerful and quiet, with a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU (ASHRAE) / 6,884 BTU (SACC)
  • Dehumidifying capacity of 96 pints per day
  • Three operational modes: Cool, Dehumidify, and Fan
  • Full thermostatic control range of 61°F – 89°F
  • Eco-friendly and energy-efficient
  • Activated carbon air filter and washable pre-filter for cleaner air
  • Easy to set up and portable

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for larger rooms or spaces
  • – Requires a window for the exhaust hose
  • – Can be heavy and difficult to move around
  • – May not be as effective in extreme weather conditions

10. Nordic Pure 20x30x1 Merv 14 Pleated Ac Furnace Air Filters 6 Pack

The Nordic Pure MERV 14 air filter is an excellent choice for customers who have health problems or for commercial units that require a filter with a rating of MERV 14 and above. The filter is made in the USA and is equivalent to MPR 2800. It has a nominal size of 20 x 30 x 1 and an actual size of 19 3/4 x 29 3/4 x 3/4 (19.75 x 29.75 x 0.75). To ensure the proper fit, it is important to measure your air filter and compare it to the actual size of this filter.

This filter is designed to capture a wide range of airborne particles, including pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores. It is also effective at capturing smaller particles such as smoke, viruses, and bacteria. The MERV 14 rating indicates that this filter can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns with an efficiency of 75% or higher.

The Nordic Pure MERV 14 filter is made with high-quality materials and is built to last. It is an excellent investment for anyone who wants to improve the air quality in their home or office.

Pros

  • Effective at capturing a wide range of airborne particles, including pollen and dust mites
  • Can capture smaller particles such as smoke, viruses, and bacteria
  • High-quality materials ensure that the filter will last

Cons

  • – May not fit all air filter systems, so it is important to measure and compare sizes before purchasing

Best Filter For Air Conditioner FAQs

Can using a high-efficiency air filter improve the air quality in my home?

Yes, using a high-efficiency air filter can improve the air quality in your home. Air filters are designed to trap airborne pollutants such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores, preventing them from circulating in the air. High-efficiency air filters are more effective than standard filters at capturing smaller particles, such as bacteria, viruses, and smoke.

Improved air quality can have many benefits for your health and wellbeing, including reducing allergy symptoms, improving respiratory health, and promoting better sleep. However, it's essential to choose the right filter for your home's HVAC system and to replace it regularly. A clogged or dirty filter can actually decrease air quality and reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system.

In addition to using a high-efficiency air filter, there are other steps you can take to improve the air quality in your home, such as regularly cleaning and vacuuming, using natural cleaning products, and maintaining proper humidity levels. By incorporating these practices into your routine, you can create a healthier and more comfortable living environment for you and your family.

Do different air filters affect the efficiency of my air conditioner?

Yes, different air filters can affect the efficiency of your air conditioner. The air filter is responsible for removing dirt, dust, and other contaminants from the air before it enters the air conditioner. If the air filter is clogged or dirty, it can restrict the airflow and reduce the efficiency of the air conditioner. This can result in higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan for your air conditioner.

There are different types of air filters available, and each has its own level of efficiency. A basic flat panel filter may only capture larger particles, while a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter can capture tiny particles that other filters may miss. However, a more efficient filter may also restrict airflow more than a less efficient filter, so it's important to balance efficiency with airflow.

Regularly changing your air filter is crucial to maintaining the efficiency of your air conditioner. Most manufacturers recommend changing the air filter every one to three months, depending on usage and the type of filter. By choosing the right filter and keeping it clean, you can help your air conditioner operate more efficiently and save money on energy costs.

How often should I change the air filter in my air conditioner?

As an air conditioning unit owner, it is important to maintain your system to keep it running efficiently. The air filter is an important part of the system that needs to be changed regularly. The frequency of changing the air filter depends on various factors such as the type of filter, the frequency of use, and the air quality in your home.

A basic guideline is to change the air filter every 1-3 months. If you have pets or suffer from allergies, it is recommended to change the filter every 1-2 months. If you live in an area with high levels of pollution or dust, you may need to change the filter more frequently. It is also important to check the filter regularly and replace it if it appears dirty or clogged.

Changing the air filter regularly can improve indoor air quality, reduce energy costs, and prolong the life of your air conditioning system. Neglecting to change the filter can cause the system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns. So, make sure to keep track of the filter and replace it as needed to keep your air conditioning system running smoothly.

Is it necessary to use a specific brand or size of air filter for my air conditioner?

It is highly recommended to use the specific brand and size of air filter recommended by the manufacturer of your air conditioner. Using the wrong size or brand of air filter can cause a number of problems for your air conditioner, including reduced airflow and decreased efficiency. Additionally, using the wrong filter can cause damage to your air conditioner's internal components, which can result in costly repairs or even the need for a full replacement.

When selecting an air filter for your air conditioner, it is important to consider the MERV rating of the filter. This rating indicates how effective the filter is at trapping airborne particles and pollutants. However, it is important to note that a higher MERV rating does not always mean a better filter. Filters with a high MERV rating can actually restrict airflow and cause your air conditioner to work harder, which can increase energy consumption and utility bills.

Ultimately, it is best to consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer of your air conditioner to determine the appropriate size and brand of air filter to use. This will help ensure optimal performance and longevity for your air conditioning system.

What is the best type of air filter for my air conditioner?

When it comes to choosing the right air filter for your air conditioner, there are a few things you need to consider. The first thing to consider is the type of filter that is compatible with your air conditioner. Most HVAC systems are designed to work with a particular type of filter, so be sure to check your owner's manual or consult with an HVAC professional to determine which type of filter is right for your system.

The next thing to consider is the MERV rating of the filter. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value and it measures the effectiveness of the filter in capturing airborne particles. Generally speaking, the higher the MERV rating, the more efficient the filter is in capturing particles. However, it's important to note that higher MERV ratings can also reduce airflow, which can put more strain on your system.

Ultimately, the best type of air filter for your air conditioner will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you have allergies or respiratory issues, you may want to opt for a filter with a higher MERV rating to effectively capture allergens and other airborne particles. On the other hand, if you prioritize energy efficiency and don't have any specific health concerns, a lower MERV rating may be sufficient. It's always a good idea to consult with an HVAC professional to determine which filter is right for your system.

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