12x20x2 MERV 13 Pleated Air Filter
Actual Size: 11.5x19.5x1.75"
Free Delivery 
Factory-Direct Low Prices, Made in the USA
Hassle-Free Returns & Free Exchanges
RESIDENTIAL AND/OR COMMERCIAL USE
Change Every 3 Months
12x20x2 MERV 13 Pleated Air Filter
Actual Size: 11.5x19.5x1.75"
Free Delivery Factory-Direct Low Prices, Made in the USAHassle-Free Returns & Free ExchangesRESIDENTIAL AND/OR COMMERCIAL USE
Change Every 3 Months
12x20x2 MERV 13 Pleated Air Filter
Actual Size: 11.5x19.5x1.75"
Free Delivery Factory-Direct Low Prices, Made in the USAHassle-Free Returns & Free ExchangesRESIDENTIAL AND/OR COMMERCIAL USE
Change Every 3 Months
About
- This is a list 11.5x19.5x2 MERV 13 air filter replacement for your furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, or HVAC system
- Actual air filter size: 11.5x19.5x1.75"
- MERV 13 synthetic media (comparable with MPR 1500/1900 and FPR 10) offers the best protection from dust, pollen, pet dander, mold, smog, bacteria, and virus carrying particles by trapping 98% of airborne particles without impacting air flow.
- High-quality construction means electrostatically charged pleated filter media, reinforced wire backing for structural integrity, and a durable frame to resist heat and humidity
- Built to last 3 months. 300% longer than fiberglass models
- 100% manufactured in the United States and designed with recyclable materials
- Learn more about 11.5x19.5x2 Air Filters
Top-Rated Filters. American Made. Delivered Free.
At Filterbuy, we don't cut corners—we craft high-quality air filters right here in the USA and ship them to your doorstep for free. No delays, no gimmicks—just clean air, made easy. With thousands of five-star reviews and filters built for real life & every HVAC system, it's no wonder why over 4 million families trust Filterbuy.
Proudly Made In The USA
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Premium Materials That Go The Distance
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Things to Know About Filter Sizes
Nominal Size
- The rounded size printed on your filter or HVAC unit (e.g., 11.5x19.5x2).
- Usually whole numbers to make identifying and ordering easier.
- A label for compatibility—not the exact measurement.
Actual Size
- The true, trimmed dimensions of the filter (e.g., 11.5x19.5x1.75" inches).
- Filters are manufactured slightly smaller so they slide into the filter slot without forcing.
- If you don't know your nominal size, measure your filter to get the actual size, then round up to find the nominal size to search on our site.
Why the difference?
- Nominal sizes simplify shopping and standardize categories.
- Actual sizes ensure the filter fits properly inside your HVAC's filter rack.
How To Find Your Nominal Size When You Don't Know It
Measure length × width × depth with a tape measure to find the actual size.
Round up each dimension to the nearest whole number to get the nominal size. Example: 11.5x19.5x1.75" in → 11.5x19.5x2 nominal.
Search by nominal size on our site for the best fit.
Why Getting the Right Size Matters
- Too small? Air can bypass the filter, reducing air quality and efficiency.
- Too big? It won't fit—risking bent frames and airflow issues.
- Just right? You get maximum performance, better filtration, and cleaner air.
Free Exchange Policy
If the filter you buy doesn't fit, we'll send you a better size.
What's a MERV Rating?
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value—but don't let the technical name fool you. It's just a way to rate how well an air filter traps stuff like dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke. The higher the MERV number, the more particles it catches—and the cleaner your air will be.
Merv 8
Comparable to:FPR: 4-7
MPR: 600-1000
Dust & Debris
Dust Mites & Particles
Pollen
Mold
Lint
Dander
Merv 11
Comparable to:FPR: 6-9
MPR: 1200-1550
Dust & DebrisDust Mites & ParticlesPollenMoldLintDander
Smoke & Smog
Merv 13
Comparable to:FPR: 10
MPR: 1900-2800
Dust & DebrisDust Mites & ParticlesPollenMoldLintDanderSmoke & Smog
Bacteria
MERV 8
Comparable to:FPR: 4-7MPR: 600-1000
MERV 11
Comparable to:FPR: 6-9MPR: 1200-1550
MERV 13
Comparable to:FPR: 10MPR: 1900-2800
What Makes Our Filters Last 90 Days? Quality, From the Inside Out
We build every Filterbuy filter to deliver reliable 90-day performance—thanks to smart design and premium materials that do the heavy lifting. Here's what makes the difference:
Pleated Design
More pleats = more surface area to capture dust and debris, keeping your air cleaner longer.
Electrostatically Charged Media
Pleats are magnetized to attract and trap microscopic particles—like pet dander, pollen, and smoke.
Synthetic Beverage Board Frame
Engineered to resist warping in extreme temperatures and high humidity.
Aluminum Dual Wire Backing
A layer of metal reinforcement keeps pleats evenly spaced and structurally sound—no sagging, even at high airflow.
Made in the USA
Assembled with care. Built to perform. Ships fast, free, and reliably from our U.S. facilities.
How to Install Your Filter in 4 Simple Steps
Turn Off Your HVAC SystemSafety first.
Remove The Old FilterLook for the airflow arrow and make note of the direction.
Slide In Your New FilterArrow should point toward the system (same direction as before).
Turn Your System Back OnAnd enjoy the fresh, clean air.
Never forget to replace your air filter again.
- Save 5% on every order
- Choose Your Delivery Schedule
- Edit, Skip, or Cancel Anytime.
Pleated Filters vs. Fiberglass—What's the Difference?
Not all air filters are created equal. Pleated filters don't just last longer—they actually clean your air better. Here's how they stack up:
Pleated Filters
Efficiency:
High (MERV 8–13) – Traps more particles
Lifespan:
90 days – Long-lasting performance
Air Quality:
Excellent – Cleaner, healthier air
Materials:
Recyclable and durable
Fiberglass Filters
Efficiency:
Low (MERV 4 or less) – Misses small stuff
Lifespan:
30 days or less – Replace often
Air Quality:
Minimal – Basic protection only
Materials:
Thin, flimsy, and not recyclable
Pleated filters are a no-brainer—more protection, less hassle, and better air for your home.
How Often Should You Change Your Filter?
Changing your filter on time keeps your HVAC system running efficiently—and helps protect your lungs from dust, allergens, and airborne irritants. Here's how often to swap it out based on your needs:
Every 90 Days
Standard ScheduleFor most homes without pets or special air quality concerns. Great for general upkeep and energy efficiency.
Every 60 Days
If You Have Pets or AllergiesShedding fur, dander, and allergy triggers can build up fast. Changing your filter every two months helps keep the air fresher and symptoms at bay.
Every 30 Days
If You Have Respiratory Concerns or Live in Smog/Wildfire ZonesFor households affected by smoke, pollution, or respiratory conditions, monthly changes ensure maximum protection.
Want to stay on track? Set a reminder—or skip the stress with auto-delivery so fresh filters show up right when you need them.
Don't Just Take Our Word For It...
Got More Questions? We've Got Answers.
Product Specifications
| Nominal Size | 11.5 x 19.5 x 2 inches |
| Actual Size | 11.5 x 19.5 x 1.75" inches |
| Filter Type | Pleated |
| Media | Electrostatically Charged |
| Frame | Beverage Board |
| MERV Ratings Available | 8, 11, 13 |
| Lifespan | Up to 90 Days |
| Origin | Made in USA |
Best 12x20x2 MERV 13 Furnace & HVAC Air Conditioner Filters
By Michelle Wan, Brand Manager and Air Quality Writer, Filterbuy · Reviewed by David Clark, Licensed HVAC Technician, Filterbuy HVAC Solutions · Published September 23, 2026 · Updated September 23, 2026
TL;DR
The Filterbuy 12x20x2 MERV 13 air filter is a 2-inch pleated furnace and AC filter. MERV is the industry scale for how much a filter captures, and MERV 13 is our Optimal tier. It captures 98% of airborne particles and it’s our pick for smoke. Change it about every 90 days, or sooner with pets or allergies.
Key Takeaways
12x20x2 is the ordering name. The filter itself measures 11.5 x 19.5 x 1.75 inches, a little smaller by design so it slides into the slot.
Switching from a store brand? Our MERV 13 is comparable to MPR 1500–1900 and FPR 10.
For one filter slot on a 90-day schedule, a 4-pack lasts a year and a 6-pack lasts 18 months.
Check your HVAC manual for compatibility, the same quick check as confirming your size.
What Is a 12x20x2 MERV 13 Air Filter?
A 12x20x2 MERV 13 air filter is a pleated replacement filter for furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, and central HVAC systems with a 12-by-20-inch slot that’s 2 inches deep. Filterbuy builds it with electrostatically charged synthetic media. The pleats give it more surface area to catch dust and debris.
Is a 12x20x2 MERV 13 Filter Good for Allergies?
It’s a strong option, and it sits one step above the tier we built for allergies. On Filterbuy’s ladder, MERV 11 is the pick for allergies and asthma, plus pets and pollen. MERV 13 captures 98% of airborne particles and is our pick for smoke. Choose MERV 13 when you want our top tier, or when smoke is part of the picture.
Here’s the full ladder, with our 12x20x2 MERV 8 and 12x20x2 MERV 11 for comparison:
All three tiers are Residential/Commercial. MPR is 3M's rating system and FPR is The Home Depot's. Filterbuy isn't affiliated with or endorsed by either.
Whichever tier you pick, check your HVAC manual for compatibility, the same way you’d confirm your size. Questions about allergy or asthma symptoms are best answered by your doctor or allergist.
For odors, Filterbuy’s Odor Eliminator filters use activated carbon. That’s the tier built for smells.
Will a 12x20x2 MERV 13 Filter Fit My System?
If your system takes a 12x20x2 filter, this one fits. Finding your size takes a minute:
Read the size printed on your old filter’s frame.
No filter in the slot? Measure the slot’s length, width, and depth, then round each up to the nearest inch.
Order by that rounded size. A filter that measures 11.5 x 19.5 x 1.75 inches is a 12x20x2.
The actual filter is cut a bit smaller than its name, and that clearance is what makes it fit. Double-check the depth, since that’s the number people most often mix up. If your size isn’t listed, Filterbuy cuts custom air filters to the eighth of an inch. You can compare MERV 8, 11, and 13 in this size on our 12x20x2 air filters page.
After you install it, run three quick checks:
Listen at the slot when the blower starts. A whistle means air is squeezing through a gap.
Look at the clean side of the frame. Gray streaks mean air went around the filter.
Run your hand around the frame. Any air you feel is a gap you can close.
Which Pack Size Should I Buy: 2, 4, or 6?
Match your 12x20x2 MERV 13 pack to how often you change the filter and how many 12x20x2 slots you have. For one slot on a 90-day schedule, a 4-pack lasts a year. A 6-pack lasts 18 months at Filterbuy’s lowest per-filter price.
One filter slot. 90 days = standard schedule; 60 days = pets or allergies; 30 days = smoke or respiratory concerns. Prices checked September 21, 2026.
We did the math for you. On a 90-day schedule, a Filterbuy 6-pack costs about $0.20 a day, or $0.19 with auto-delivery. Buying one filter at a time costs about $0.35 a day. Got two 12x20x2 returns? Cut each timeframe in half.
How Often Should You Replace a 12x20x2 MERV 13 Filter?
Every 90 days in a typical home. Change it sooner in these cases:
Every 60 days if you have pets or allergies.
Every 30 days if someone has respiratory concerns or there’s smoke in the air.
Pro tip: Check it monthly in peak seasons. The American Lung Association suggests holding the filter next to a sheet of white paper. If it looks gray, replace it. For more on timing, see our guide on how often to change your HVAC filter.
To install: turn the system off and slide out the old filter. Slide in the new one with the airflow arrow pointing toward the blower. Close the door and turn the system back on.
Rather not track the calendar? The Filterbuy air filter subscription ships replacements on your schedule at 5% off every order. You can change or cancel it anytime. Set it once and breathe easy.
Where Can I Buy 12x20x2 MERV 13 Filters Near Me?
Order direct from Filterbuy. We’re a manufacturer, not a reseller. Our filters are cut, pleated, and framed to order in our own US plants. You get fast and free 2-day delivery to most US states. Store stock of 2-inch sizes varies, so call ahead if you’d rather shop locally.
Factory-direct pricing, with pack discounts up to 43% per filter
Real people at (855) 345-8289
I don’t want anyone to feel like they need an HVAC license just to pick the right filter. My job is to give you the straight answer, explain why it matters, and let you get back to your day.
Michelle Wan, Brand Manager and Air Quality Writer, Filterbuy
Supporting Statistics
Americans spend about 90% of their time indoors. Some pollutants run 2 to 5 times higher inside than outside.
Why it matters: Your 12x20x2 filter cleans that air whenever the blower runs.
Source: U.S. EPA, Report on the Environment: Indoor Air Quality
90%+ of U.S. homes have 3 or more detectable allergens. 73% have at least one at high levels.
Pets and pests are the biggest drivers.
Why it matters: It’s why we suggest a 60-day schedule for homes with pets or allergies.
Source: National Institutes of Health, Allergens Widespread in Largest Study of U.S. Homes
5 to 15% lower AC energy use. That’s the DOE estimate for routinely replacing filters.
Why it matters: A right-sized pack keeps a fresh filter ready when the change is due.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Saver 101: Home Cooling (PDF)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a 12x20x1 Filter in a 12x20x2 Slot?
You can, but we don’t recommend it. A 1-inch filter leaves a gap in a 2-inch slot, so air slips around it.
Is MERV 13 Better Than MERV 11 for a 12x20x2 Filter?
They’re built for different jobs. 12x20x2 MERV 11 captures 95% of airborne particles and is our pick for allergies and asthma, plus pets and pollen. MERV 13 captures 98% of airborne particles and is our pick for smoke. Either way, check your HVAC manual for compatibility.
Does a 12x20x2 MERV 13 Filter Help with Wildfire Smoke?
Yes. MERV 13 is Filterbuy’s pick for smoke. The EPA’s wildfire indoor air guidance suggests a high-efficiency filter such as MERV 13 and running the fan on “On” while smoke is around. Change the filter more often during smoky stretches. Our guide to the best MERV filter for wildfire smoke walks through it.
Is a Filterbuy MERV 13 Filter the Same as Filtrete MPR 1900 or FPR 10?
It’s comparable. Our MERV 13 lines up with MPR 1500–1900 and FPR 10. MPR is 3M’s rating system and FPR is The Home Depot’s. Filterbuy isn’t affiliated with or endorsed by either. See how FPR ratings convert to MERV.
Glossary
MERV: Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, the industry scale for how much a filter captures. See the EPA’s MERV explainer.
Nominal size: The rounded size printed on the frame, such as 12x20x2. It’s the name you order by.
Actual size: What the filter really measures, such as 11.5 x 19.5 x 1.75 inches.
Pleated filter: Filter media folded like an accordion for more surface area.
Electrostatic media: Filter material with a static charge that helps it hold fine particles.
MPR and FPR: Rating systems from 3M and The Home Depot. Neither is MERV, so comparisons are approximate.
About the Author and Reviewer
Michelle Wan is Filterbuy’s Brand Manager and Air Quality Writer. She works directly with our US manufacturing teams and holds a B.A. from UC Santa Cruz.
David Clark is a Licensed HVAC Technician with Filterbuy HVAC Solutions. He reviewed this page for technical accuracy.