Affiliate links may earn us a commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Affiliate disclosure

Furnace filter sizes: how to read and match yours

How to read the nominal size on a furnace filter, why actual size is smaller, and links for common 1-inch sizes.

Updated

What it is

Filters are labelled with a nominal size (length x width x thickness, in inches) that is rounded up from the actual size. The Filtrete 20x20x1 listing, for example, gives an actual size of about 19.69 x 19.69 x 0.81 inches. Buy by the nominal size printed on your old filter's frame and check the listing for the actual size when the slot is tight.

How to choose

  • The verified listings below cover 16x20x1, 16x25x1, 20x20x1 and 20x25x1. Other sizes link to searches.
  • Use the thickness printed on your old filter; 1-inch and thicker filters are different products.
  • If there is no size on the old filter, measure the filter slot and compare to a listing's actual size.

How it is tested

  • Check the airflow arrow: it points toward the furnace or air handler.

How to use it

  • Write the size and the change date on the frame of the new filter so the next change is easy.
Safety firstFollow your furnace or air handler manual for allowed filter types.

Capacitors can hold a charge after the power is off. Safety terms.

Where to buy

These are Amazon links. Product page links go to one specific listing whose title we read on Amazon; we do not say it fits your model. Search links open search results, which change. Always confirm your model number and the part number in your manual.

Read the size printed on the old filter (for example 16×25×1). The searches below are by size. They are not a fit for your model.

Product pages

Searches by type or size

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Affiliate disclosure

Sources

Request a filter and maintenance reminder

We save your email, this page, and the interval you pick. Nothing is emailed. We'll only use your email for this request.

Privacy. Deletion requests go to the address on that page.