Washable Aluminum Mesh HVAC Air Filter is used for pre-filtering coarse dust, lint and grease from HVAC return air with a rigid aluminum mesh pad that is washed and reused instead of thrown away. ASHRAE 52.2 MERV 1–4 is the reference cited for it on drawings, datasheets and purchase orders.
What ASHRAE 52.2 MERV 1–4 Means for Washable Aluminum Mesh HVAC Air Filter
The dimensions in the table below are supplied to suit ASHRAE 52.2 MERV 1–4. Where the standard sets requirements for the finished appliance, device or system, compliance testing of that assembly stays with its manufacturer; we supply the metal mesh part to the drawing and can provide material certificates and dimensional reports with the shipment.
Washable Aluminum Mesh HVAC Air Filter Dimensions
| Size | Width X (mm) | Height Y (mm) | Thickness (mm) | Layers | Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 u00d7 20 u00d7 1 in | 406 | 508 | 25 | 6 expanded aluminum | MERV 2 |
| 20 u00d7 25 u00d7 1 in | 508 | 635 | 25 | 6 expanded aluminum | MERV 2 |
| 24 u00d7 24 u00d7 2 in | 610 | 610 | 50 | 10 expanded + 1 woven | MERV 4 |
Specifying Washable Aluminum Mesh HVAC Air Filter Beyond the Standard
- Nominal vs actual size: Order to the actual frame size; a 16 × 20 × 1 in filter usually measures about 15.5 × 19.5 × 0.75 in.
- Layer build: More expanded layers plus a woven face raise efficiency to MERV 4 but also raise initial pressure drop.
- Frame: Aluminum channel with corner reinforcement keeps the pad square through repeated washing.
When Washable Aluminum Mesh HVAC Air Filter Is Not the Right Choice
Not for allergy, smoke or virus control; pair it with a pleated MERV 11–13 filter or an electronic air cleaner downstream.





