AprilAire Air Cleaners: Why They Should Be On Every System

Key Benefits of AprilAire Air Cleaners

AprilAire air cleaners offer several advantages over standard filters:

• Reduced Callbacks: Proper airflow and system protection minimize issues.
• Low System Static: Less resistance on the HVAC fan.
• Longer Filter Life: Larger media area means fewer replacements.
• Traps More Particles: Higher efficiency filtration.
• Low Bypass: Patented technology ensures air passes through the filter media.

Performance Advantages Explained

1. Static Pressure: Airflow vs. Resistance

This chart compares the static pressure (in inches of water column, IWC) against airflow (in cubic feet per minute, CFM) for various filters, including 1" MERV 8, 1" MERV 13, and AprilAire MERV 11, 13, and 16 filters. It demonstrates that AprilAire filters, particularly the MERV 16 (216) model, exhibit significantly lower static pressure across the tested airflow range (400-2000 CFM) compared to standard 1" filters, even at higher MERV ratings. For instance, at 2000 CFM, a 1" MERV 13 filter shows a pressure drop of approximately 0.40 IWC, while an AprilAire MERV 16 filter shows around 0.24 IWC. The text accompanying the chart states that AprilAire filters have less than half the airflow resistance of comparable MERV-rated 1" filters. This data is sourced from ASHRAE duct testing.

The right air filters make a significant difference in HVAC system performance. Standard one-inch filters often deliver high static pressure and have a low capacity for holding dust, requiring frequent changes. If these filters are not changed often enough, the HVAC equipment can perform inefficiently, leading to dirty or frozen coils.

2. For Better Airflow, Keep Velocity and Resistance Low

Velocity is the speed at which air moves through a filter. A larger media area results in lower velocity and, consequently, lower resistance, leading to better airflow. Restrictive, undersized filters act like a thumb on a hose, increasing pressure and velocity, which is detrimental to HVAC systems.

Filter Media Area Comparison:

This visual comparison highlights the difference in filter media surface area. A standard 1" filter is shown with a nominal size of 20x25 inches and a filter area of 3.4 sq ft. In contrast, the AprilAire Model 213 (12-month filter) is depicted with a larger, pleated design, representing 28 sq ft of filter area. The text explains that this larger surface area lowers resistance and velocity, resulting in better airflow and increased system performance. A callout box states 'MORE FILTER AREA for lower static pressure & longer filter life'.

3. Pressure Drop vs. Time

This graph tracks the pressure drop (in IWC) over elapsed time (in months) for a 20x25 filter used with a 3-ton system. It shows that the 1" MERV 8 filter's pressure drop increases rapidly, reaching the 'FILTER CHANGE OUT REQUIRED' threshold around 6 months. AprilAire filters (MERV 11, 13, and 16) maintain a much lower pressure drop over a longer period, with the MERV 16 filter showing minimal increase even after 12 months. The accompanying text notes that even after 12 months, AprilAire filters are not overly restrictive due to their larger surface area (over nine times that of a 1" filter) and low initial resistance, helping maintain proper airflow and reduce potential callbacks.

4. Particle Size Efficiency

This table details the particle size efficiency percentage for different filter types (MERV 8, MERV 11, AprilAire MERV 11, 13, 16) across three particle size ranges: 0.3-1.0 microns, 1.0-3.0 microns, and 3.0-10.0 microns. It highlights that AprilAire filters exceed the ASHRAE minimum requirements. For example, the MERV 11 (ASHRAE MIN.) filter captures 20% of 0.3-1.0 micron particles, while the AprilAire MERV 11 captures 37%, AprilAire MERV 13 captures 63%, and AprilAire MERV 16 captures 95%. Similar improvements are shown for the other particle size ranges, with AprilAire MERV 16 achieving 99% efficiency for 3.0-10.0 micron particles.

Blower Condition Comparison:

Two images compare the condition of a blower motor. The left image, labeled 'BLOWER WITH BASIC 1" FILTER', shows a blower with significant dirt and dust buildup, indicating inefficiency. The right image, labeled 'BLOWER WITH APRILAIRE FILTER', shows an actual 22-year-old blower that is protected by an AprilAire filter, appearing clean and efficient. This visual demonstrates the protective benefits of using AprilAire filters.

AprilAire Technologies and Guarantees

• Pure Fit Promise: Genuine AprilAire replacement filters are made to fit perfectly into their air cleaner cabinets.
• Self-Seal Technology: Patented technology creates a seal to reduce air bypassing the filter.
• Interlock Rails: Filters slide securely onto a patented rail system for optimal performance without plastic or metal reinforcements.
• Clean Coil Guarantee: If an AC coil protected by an AprilAire filter requires cleaning within 10 years of installation, AprilAire will pay $100 toward the service.

Filter Specifications and Upgrade Kits

AprilAire offers a range of filters with varying MERV ratings and sizes, designed for different IAQ needs.

Filter Series Overview

Removal Efficiency (Based on Particle Size)

Test Method: MERV 10-16 - ASHRAE 52.2.2012, EAC - AHRI 680-2009

Replacement Filters

*Air Cleaner models no longer available.

Upgrade Kit Specifications

Upgrade Rails

*1213 Upgrade Kit includes 4893 rails and Model 213 MERV 13 Healthy Home Filter
**1413 Upgrade Kit includes 4894 rails and Model 413 MERV 13 Healthy Home Filter

1625FG/2025FG Filter Grille Air Cleaner

The AprilAire Filter Grille Air Cleaner provides high-efficiency filtration for any return grille application where a 1" or 2" filter is typically used. Its patented filter design delivers low system static and no bypass, reducing profit-robbing call backs.

Available in 16x25 and 20x25 models, the Filter Grille Air Cleaner comes complete with the frame, removable grille, filter locks, and a Healthy Air 11 or Healthy Air 13 filter, depending on the model.

Features:

• Self-Seal design
• Interlocking rail system
• Extremely low initial resistance
• Larger filter surface area vs. 1" filter
• 10-year clean coil guarantee
• Filter upgrade available

Benefits:

• Eliminates bypass
• Perfect fit
• Low system static, better protection
• Fewer filter changes
• Peace-of-mind protection
• Efficiency choices: MERV 11, MERV 13
• Meets 2019 CEC Title 24 Part 6 when MERV 13 filter is installed

Dimensions:

Filter Specifications:

Grille + Filter Pressure Drop (in w.c.)*

*Recommended grille face velocity is 300-450 fpm. Cells in white represent grille face velocities above 450 fpm, where there is potential for unwanted noises. To minimize risk of noise, use two filter grilles on systems over 3.5 tons.

Offer Total IAQ Control to Your Customers

Installing an AprilAire Wi-Fi thermostat provides homeowners with complete control over their indoor air quality. The thermostat's Event-Based™ Air Purifying feature activates the HVAC fan for a set period to remove airborne dust and particles, such as after vacuuming. This period can be extended for situations requiring more purification. Homeowners can manage air purity, relative humidity, and temperature from their mobile devices.

†Requires the installation of an AprilAire humidifier and/or dehumidifier.

AprilAire Thermostat Models:

• Model 8620W (Universal 2H/2C or 4H/2C HP)
• Model 8910W (Universal 3H/3C or 4H/2C HP)
• Model 8920W (Universal 3H/3C or 4H/2C HP)

Thermostat Features:

• Event-Based™ Air Purification
• Humidity and ventilation control
• Two-part, three-wire design
• Full-color Wi-Fi touchscreen (8920W)
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Touchscreen display (8620W, 8910W)