I've slowly replaced every filter-based system with these K&N Home filters. HVAC? Replaced. PC? You betcha, I replaced a side panel on my Lian Li O11 Dynamic with one and can now run a positive pressure system, so dust can't get in .. so nice (if you're curious, I selected that beefy case just for this as the extra width and internal 3x120fan bay allow for this type of filtration once you seal up the inner-wall). Home Theater cabinet? Yep! Air purifier? I jerry-rigged that too and so far, my neighbor hasn't noticed his box fan missing.
Are they a tad expensive? Yeah, but the amount of use you're getting out of them is pretty high and they come in cheaper than many of the other "washable" aluminum filters. Out of all "washable" filters I've tried, these function pretty dang well -- and cleaning is a synch. No, you don't need their filter cleaner, you can use some diluted degreaser (dishwashing soap works) in a spray bottle, spray that on, and let it soak, then wash it out (opposite of the airflow, so the dust collecting side is down). Use a flashlight or ceiling light to see through to gauge the cleanliness, more light = more clean .. science!
But let's talk fit and performance.
Fit:
- They're a tad undersized, so you'll want to get some gasket material to make sure you get a good seal.
- They come in only (at the moment) 1x# sizes (more like 3/4"), but I hope they will introduce 2" and 3" sooner than later.
Performance:
- Air flow is surprisingly high with these, higher than a normal comparable fabric/paper filter, and way higher than one rated at this spec.
- They have a very high pleat count, so that maximizes the surface area to allow for better airflow.
- Static pressure was also better in comparison during my tests.
- My HVAC blower got "quieter" running 1x25" filters versus the 2x25" disposable fabric-based ones I had in it before.
- Be cognizant to keep them maintained and washed for best performance.
I haven't finished my round of additional testing (lack the right meter) to see the particle size that gets through these, but I will say that since switching to them about 6 months back, all I find in the house is a very fine dust -- I'm planning additional tests to see if that is just residual dust in the system (~16 years worth) that is working free.
| Manufacturer | K&N Engineering, Inc. |
|---|---|
| Part Number | HVC-12020 |
| Item Weight | 2.73 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 19.6 x 19.6 x 0.8 inches |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Item model number | 20x20x1 |
| Size | 20x20x1 |
| Style | Merv 11 |
| Material | Synthetic Polymer (PMMA) |
| Pattern | Air Filter |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values (MERV) | 11 |
| Included Components | HVAC Filter |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime |
