16 1/2x21 1/2x1 Aerostar Air Filter

About this product

At an actual 16 1/2" x 21 1/2" x 3/4", this Aerostar fits a nominal 16 1/2 x 21 1/2 x 1 return - another odd size that hardware stores don't stock and that's a common reason buyers end up ordering direct. MERV 8 covers standard residential filtration. MERV 11 handles pet households and most common allergens. MERV 13 captures fine particulates including bacteria, virus carriers, and wildfire smoke - the grade for households with asthma or chronic respiratory health concerns. Pleated synthetic media with an electrostatic charge handles the actual work. The pleats give you substantially more surface area than a flat fiberglass filter at the same nominal size, which extends the service life to 60 to 90 days under typical residential conditions. The electrostatic charge catches sub-micron particles where the physical weave alone reaches its filtration limits. Manufactured in the USA by Con-Air Industries, Orlando, Florida. The cardboard frame is reinforced to maintain shape under blower suction. Frame collapse is one of the most common failure modes in cheaper odd-size filters, and a collapsed frame allows unfiltered air to bypass the media entirely - the worst possible outcome in a system where you're trying to filter for health reasons. This filter is dimensionally precise to the OEM specification.

• Electrostatically charged pleated synthetic media: Captures sub-micron particles and allergens for improved air quality
• Reinforced cardboard frame: Maintains shape under blower suction to prevent frame collapse and ensure full filtration
• Extended service life: Pleated design provides 60 to 90 days of use compared to flat fiberglass filters of the same size
• OEM dimensionally precise fit: Manufactured to exact specifications for reliable installation and performance
• Reusable and disposable options: Offers flexibility for different filtration needs and maintenance routines

Nominal Size

16.5 x 21.5 x 1 in

Actual Size

16.5 x 21.5 x 0.75 in

Filter Material

Synthetic media with cardboard frame

Filtration Grades

MERV 8, MERV 11, MERV 13

Usage Type

Reusable, Disposable

Manufactured in

USA

Photos, details and ratings from factorydirectfilters.com, through Shopify.