Furnace Filters
Best 16x22x1 Furnace Filter (2026): Top 5 by the Specs
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For a 16x22x1 furnace filter, the AIRx leads as Best Overall: it pairs MERV 11 pleated filtration with a 6-pack, a moisture-resistant double-wall frame and a 15.875 by 21.875 by 0.875 inch actual size. The Aerostar runner-up also carries MERV 11 in a 4-pack, while the Filtrete, Simply and Filter King carry MERV 8 in packs of 4, 6 and 2.
Starting out? See the main guide: Best Furnace Air Filters
Top picks at a glance
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Best OverallAIRx Filters 16x22x1 Furnace AC Filter MERV9.8 View on Amazon -
9.6 View on Amazon -
Also GreatSimply 16x24x1 Air Filter9.6 View on Amazon -
Also GreatFiltrete 16.5x21.5x1 in. Air Filter9.4 View on Amazon -
Also GreatFilter King 16x22x1 Air Filter MERV9.2 View on Amazon
Compare the specs
Ranked on pack size from each listing, plus how many buyers have rated it. A dash (—) means we could not confirm that figure from the listing.
| Pick | MERV rating | Pack size | Weight | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. AIRx Filters 16x22x1 Furnace AC Filter MERV | MERV 11 | 6-pack | — | — |
| 2. Aerostar 16.375x21.5x1 MERV 11 Air Filter | MERV 11 | 4-pack | — | — |
| 3. Simply 16x24x1 Air Filter | MERV 8 | — | — | — |
| 4. Filtrete 16.5x21.5x1 in. Air Filter | MERV 8 | — | — | — |
| 5. Filter King 16x22x1 Air Filter MERV | MERV 8 | 2-pack | — | — |
AIRx Filters 16x22x1 Furnace AC Filter MERV
It pairs MERV 11 pleated filtration with a 6-pack, a moisture-resistant double-wall frame and a 16x22x1 fit.
- MERV rating: MERV 11
- Pack size: 6-pack
Good for
- Buyers who want MERV 11 filtration in a 6-pack
- Buyers who want a moisture-resistant double-wall frame
Skip it if
- You want a MERV rating above 11
- You want a pack smaller than 6 filters
It uses a pleated design for a larger surface area without restricted airflow, and the frame stands up to 180 degrees. The nominal size is 16x22x1 with an actual size of 15.875 by 21.875 by 0.875 inches, and it fits most residential furnace and air conditioner systems. Replace the filter every 60 to 90 days, and the box holds 6 filters made in the USA.
Aerostar 16.375x21.5x1 MERV 11 Air Filter
It pairs MERV 11 pleated filtration with a 4-pack, an electrostatically charged media and a beverage board frame.
- MERV rating: MERV 11
- Pack size: 4-pack
Good for
- Buyers who want MERV 11 filtration in a 4-pack
- Buyers who want electrostatically charged synthetic media
Skip it if
- You want a MERV rating above 11
- You want a pack smaller than 4 filters
It lists an actual size of 16.50 by 21.50 by 0.75 inches for a standard 1-inch filter slot, and it compares to MPR 1200 and FPR 7 ratings. The electrostatically charged synthetic media captures fine particles without restricting airflow, and the pleated beverage board frame resists humidity and temperature changes. Replace it every 2 to 3 months, and it is made in the USA.
Simply 16x24x1 Air Filter
It is a MERV 8 pleated filter in a 6-pack with a 16x24x1 nominal size and MPR 600 comparability.
- MERV rating: MERV 8
Good for
- Buyers who want MERV 8 filtration in a 6-pack
- Buyers who want a 16x24x1 nominal size
Skip it if
- You want a MERV rating above 8
- You want a 16x22x1 nominal size
It lists a nominal size of 16 by 24 by 1 inches with an actual size of 15.75 by 23.75 by 0.75 inches. The pleated design uses electrostatically charged synthetic media, and the frame uses a 24-point beverage board with hot-rolled steel wire mesh. It lasts up to 3 months, and the box holds 6 filters made in the USA.
Filtrete 16.5x21.5x1 in. Air Filter
It pairs MERV 8 pleated filtration with MPR 700, a 4-pack and a 16.19 by 21.19 by 0.81 inch actual size.
- MERV rating: MERV 8
Good for
- Buyers who want MERV 8 filtration with MPR 700
- Buyers who want a 4-pack of 3-month filters
Skip it if
- You want a MERV rating above 8
- You want a pack smaller than 4 filters
It uses 3-in-1 technology to trap particles while letting air flow through, and it carries MERV and MPR ratings on every pleated filter. Change the filter at least every 90 days for 1-inch filters, and the Filtrete Smart App offers a 30, 60 or 90-day replacement countdown. The box holds 4 filters.
Filter King 16x22x1 Air Filter MERV
It pairs MERV 8 pleated filtration with a 2-pack and a 16 by 22 by 1 inch nominal size.
- MERV rating: MERV 8
- Pack size: 2-pack
Good for
- Buyers who want MERV 8 filtration in a 2-pack
- Buyers who want a 16x22x1 nominal size
Skip it if
- You want a MERV rating above 8
- You want a pack smaller than 2 filters
It lists a nominal size of 16 by 22 by 1 inches with an actual size of 16 by 22 by 0.75 inches. The pleated design captures more particles without impacting airflow, and installation is open, slide and close. Filters last up to 90 days, with a change every 30 to 90 days for 1-inch filters.
How to choose
MERV ratings and pack sizes
MERV ratings split this list into two groups. The AIRx and Aerostar carry MERV 11, while the Simply, Filtrete and Filter King carry MERV 8. Pack sizes run from 2 filters for the Filter King to 6 filters for the AIRx and Simply, with 4 filters for the Aerostar and Filtrete. Weigh the rating against your filter-change schedule.
Nominal size versus actual size
Nominal size and actual size differ on every pick here, so measure your slot before buying. The AIRx and Filter King list a 16x22x1 nominal size, the Aerostar lists 16.375 by 21.5 by 1, the Filtrete lists 16.5 by 21.5 by 1, and the Simply lists 16x24x1. Actual sizes run from 15.875 by 21.875 by 0.875 inches for the AIRx to 15.75 by 23.75 by 0.75 inches for the Simply. Compare the actual size against your slot, not just the nominal size.
Frames, airflow and replacement
Frames and airflow shape everyday use. The AIRx uses a moisture-resistant double-wall beverage board frame, the Aerostar uses a beverage board frame with wire backing, and the Simply uses a 24-point beverage board with steel wire mesh. The AIRx and Aerostar pleated designs hold more surface area without restricting airflow. Replacement intervals run from 2 to 3 months for the Aerostar to 60 to 90 days for the AIRx, so keep a spare pack on hand.
FAQ
Which filters carry MERV 11?
The AIRx and Aerostar carry MERV 11, while the Simply, Filtrete and Filter King carry MERV 8. The AIRx compares to MPR 1000, 1085 and 1200 and FPR 7, and the Aerostar compares to MPR 1200 and FPR 7.
What actual size is each filter?
The AIRx measures 15.875 by 21.875 by 0.875 inches, the Aerostar measures 16.50 by 21.50 by 0.75 inches, the Simply measures 15.75 by 23.75 by 0.75 inches, the Filtrete measures 16.19 by 21.19 by 0.81 inches, and the Filter King measures 16 by 22 by 0.75 inches.
What replacement interval does each filter list?
Replace the AIRx every 60 to 90 days, the Aerostar every 2 to 3 months, the Simply within up to 3 months, the Filtrete at least every 90 days, and the Filter King every 30 to 90 days for 1-inch filters.
Which filters fit 16x22x1 systems?
The AIRx fits 16x22x1 systems, and the Filter King lists a 16 by 22 by 1 inch nominal size. The Aerostar, Filtrete and Simply list different nominal sizes, so measure your slot and compare the actual size before buying.
