The 8 Best Washable Furnace Filters
This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in July of 2018. The proper functioning of your heating and air conditioning system is a major factor in the air quality of your home. Maintaining a clean filter is important, but the cost of disposables can start to add up, not to mention the waste piling up in landfills. Our selection of washable furnace filters are as easy to use as throwaways, and pay for themselves over time while reducing unnecessary waste. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Clean Air Solutions Max
2. Carter Merv 8
3. Web Eco Filter Plus
Editor's Notes
November 20, 2020:
All the filters on this list still deliver, so we simply added two new options. The Venti Tech is an electrostatic model that comes in over a dozen sizes, and needs cleaning with only water rather than any special detergents. We also included a model from K&N, well known for their car and truck filters. Their K&N HVAC is a sturdy option for home systems and is just as strong and dependable as their automotive parts. It's a rust-free choice for those living in moist areas.
We’ve kept the Clean Air Solutions Max as our favorite because you can’t beat a lifetime warranty.
October 14, 2019:
The Clean Air Solutions Max takes the top spot for having a reliable, lab-certified Merv 9 rating that the EPA says is nearly on par with HEPA filtration. We also like how the sides are clearly labeled for airflow and cleaning.
We added the newer to the market Carter Merv 8 for the excellent construction of its frame that helps the unit keep its shape even after cleaning so it slides back into the furnace with ease.
While we included some heavy-duty options as our top picks because they are designed to last as long as your furnace, we also looked at more budget-friendly choices for someone living in a rental, or just trying out washable furnaces and not ready to make a large investment.
The Web Eco Filter Plus comes with a frame but is still adjustable and will last multiple years, while the bare-bones Flanders Natural Aire offers just basic filtration but is the best choice for those who need a non-standard size.
4. Air-Care Electra
5. Trophy Air Permafoam
6. K&N HVAC
7. Venti Tech
8. Flanders Natural Aire
Tina Morna Freitas is a writer who lives in Chicago with her family and three cats. She has a B.A. in anthropology with a minor in English, and has built a freelance career over the years in writing and digital marketing. Her passions for cooking, decorating and home improvement contribute to her extensive knowledge of all things kitchen and home goods. In addition, her 20 years as a parent inform her expertise in the endless stream of toys and equipment that inevitably takes over the homes of most parents. She also enjoys gardening, making and sipping margaritas, and aspires to be a crazy cat lady once all the children are grown.