Choosing the Best 16x24x1 Air Filter for Homes with Smokers

If you're living with a smoker, then you're probably concerned about the air quality in your home. The good news is that there are steps you can take to filter out secondhand smoke, and one of the most effective ways is by using an air filter.

However, with so many different options on the market, it can be tough to know which one is the best for your needs. That's where we come in. In this article, we'll help you choose the best 16x24x1 air filter for homes with smokers.

From the materials used to the filtration level and beyond, we'll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. So, let's get started and take the first step towards a healthier and cleaner home environment.

Understanding Air Filter Ratings

Air filter ratings can be confusing if you're not familiar with them. However, it's important to understand these ratings so that you can choose the right air filter that suits your needs. Here are the three most common ratings for air filters:

MERV Rating

The MERV rating is a scale that ranges from 1 to 20 and measures the effectiveness of an air filter. The higher the MERV rating, the more effective the air filter is in capturing small particles. If you live with a smoker, you should choose an air filter with a higher MERV rating, such as MERV 11 or higher, to capture smoke and other small particles.

FPR Rating

The FPR rating, or Filter Performance Rating, is Home Depot's rating system for air filters. It ranges from 4 to 10 and measures the filter's ability to capture small particles like smoke, pollen, and pet dander. If you have a smoker in your home, it's recommended to choose an air filter with an FPR rating of 7 or higher to effectively capture smoke.

MPR Rating

The MPR rating, or Micro-Particle Performance Rating, was developed by 3M to measure the filter's ability to capture particles smaller than 1 micron. This rating system ranges from 300 to 2200. If you have a smoker in your home, it's recommended to choose an air filter with an MPR rating of at least 1200 to effectively capture smoke particles.

Understanding air filter ratings is crucial when selecting an air filter for your home, especially if you live with a smoker. Choosing an air filter with a higher rating is the best way to ensure that you're effectively capturing smoke and other small particles in your home.

HEPA Filters vs. Activated Carbon Filters

When it comes to air filters for homes with smokers, two popular options are HEPA filters and activated carbon filters. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to understand the differences before making a decision. HEPA filters are designed to trap tiny particles like smoke, dust, and pollen. They use a dense filter material that captures particles as small as 0.3 microns. HEPA filters can be very effective at removing smoke and its odor from the air. However, they don't do a great job at absorbing or neutralizing chemical fumes like those from tobacco smoke, which can still linger in the air even if particles are removed. Activated carbon filters, on the other hand, are specifically designed to absorb chemicals and odors. They contain a layer of activated carbon, which is a form of charcoal that has been treated with oxygen to open up millions of tiny pores between the carbon atoms. These pores trap and hold onto chemicals and odors, effectively removing them from the air. One disadvantage of activated carbon filters is that they are not as effective at trapping tiny particles like HEPA filters. This means that they may not be the best option for removing smoke and other airborne particles from the air. However, combining a HEPA filter with an activated carbon filter can be an effective solution for cleaning the air in a home with smokers. Ultimately, the choice between HEPA and activated carbon filters will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you are primarily concerned with removing smoke particles from the air, a HEPA filter may be the best choice. If you want to eliminate smoke odors and other chemical fumes, an activated carbon filter may be the better option. And, if you want the best of both worlds, consider using both types of filters together.

MERV Ratings for Smoke Removal

If you have smokers in your home, it's essential to choose an air filter with a high Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating. MERV ratings range from 1 to 20, with 20 being the highest rating. A higher MERV rating means the filter can capture smaller particles, including smoke particles. For smoke removal, we recommend choosing an air filter with a MERV rating of at least 11. This rating is capable of capturing smoke particles, making it an effective solution for homes with smokers. However, keep in mind that higher MERV ratings are not always better, as they can restrict airflow and damage your HVAC system. Additionally, it's important to note that while MERV ratings can indicate the filter's effectiveness in capturing smoke particles, it does not necessarily mean it can eliminate cigarette odors. If you're looking to eliminate smoke odors, consider using an air purifier or other odor-removing products in addition to a high-quality air filter. In conclusion, when choosing an air filter for homes with smokers, look for a MERV rating of at least 11. This will help capture smoke particles and improve indoor air quality. Remember to replace your air filter regularly to ensure maximum performance and efficiency.

Considerations for Choosing the Right Air Filter

When it comes to choosing the right air filter, there are a few important factors to consider, especially if you have smokers in your home. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

MERV Rating: The MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating is used to rate the effectiveness of a filter based on its ability to trap particles of different sizes. For homes with smokers, it is recommended to choose a filter with a MERV rating of at least 11 or higher to effectively capture smoke particles.

Type of Filter: There are several types of air filters to choose from, including fiberglass, pleated, high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA), and electrostatic. While all of these filters can capture smoke particles, some are more effective than others. HEPA filters, for example, are the most efficient in trapping smoke particles, while electrostatic filters use a static charge to attract particles.

Airflow Resistance: Airflow resistance refers to how much resistance the air encounters when it passes through the filter. Filters with higher MERV ratings typically have higher airflow resistance, which means they can reduce the airflow in your HVAC system. It is important to choose a filter that provides adequate airflow while still effectively capturing smoke particles.

Filter Replacement: It is important to regularly replace your air filter to ensure it continues to effectively capture smoke particles. The frequency of replacement depends on the type of filter, the level of air pollution, and other factors. Be sure to check the manufacturer's recommendations for filter replacement intervals.

By taking these considerations into account, you can choose the right air filter for your home with smokers, providing cleaner air for everyone to breathe.

Maintenance and Replacement of Air Filters

Regular maintenance and replacement of air filters are crucial in ensuring that your indoor air quality remains healthy and free from harmful pollutants, especially in homes with smokers. Here are some tips to help you maintain and replace your air filters:

1. Check your air filters regularly. It's important to inspect your air filters at least once a month to determine whether they need cleaning or replacement. If you have pets or smokers in your home, you may need to inspect them more frequently.

2. Replace your air filters as recommended. Most air filters need to be replaced every three months, but some may need to be replaced more frequently depending on the level of pollutants in your home. Be sure to check the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific air filter.

3. Clean or replace dirty air filters. If your air filters are dirty, they can't effectively trap pollutants, leading to poor indoor air quality. You can either clean your air filters by gently vacuuming them or replace them altogether.

4. Use high-quality air filters. Not all air filters are created equal, especially if you're looking for filters that can effectively trap smoke and other harmful pollutants. Consider investing in high-quality air filters with a higher MERV rating that can effectively capture microscopic particles.

5. Consider using a whole-home air purification system. If you or someone in your household smokes, you may want to consider investing in a whole-home air purification system. These systems work alongside your HVAC system to capture and eliminate smoke and other pollutants, providing cleaner air for you and your family to breathe.

By following these recommended tips, you can help to improve the indoor air quality in your home and protect the health of you and your family.

Conclusion: Keep Your Indoor Air Clean with High-Quality 16x24x1 Air Filters

When it comes to maintaining a healthy and comfortable indoor environment, air quality is a top concern, especially for homes with smokers. Using the right air filter can go a long way in reducing harmful airborne particles and odors caused by cigarette smoke. A 16x24x1 air filter is a perfect fit for most residential HVAC systems and provides excellent air filtration efficiency, ensuring that you and your family breathe clean and fresh air.

Remember to choose a high-quality 16x24x1 air filter with MERV ratings of at least 8 to effectively remove smoke and other pollutants from your indoor air. By regularly replacing your air filter, your HVAC system can maintain optimal performance, save energy costs, and improve your indoor air quality. Don't compromise on the air you breathe - invest in the best 16x24x1 air filter for a healthier home and happier life!

Frequently Asked Question

Figuring out the size of air filter you need is crucial to ensure the HVAC system runs properly. An undersized filter will clog quickly, decrease air flow and let dirt particles slip through. This can cause the filter and grill to vibrate and whistle, which is not only annoying but can indicate that air is being drawn in from tiny cracks.


To combat this, the recommended minimum filter surface area is 2.50 cubic feet per minute (cfm) per square inch of filter area. For example, with a 2000 cfm system, you would need a filter of 800 square inches, or a 20' X 40' filter grill.


For best results, use 2.00 cubic feet per minute per square inch of filter area. With a 2000 cfm system, you would need a filter of 1000 square inches, or two grills of 20' X 25' each. This formula works in all residential applications, and using 2.00 cfm per square inch of filter area will ensure an air velocity of 300 feet per minute or less in 1 through 5 ton units.


In situations where space is limited, a disposable filter may be placed in the return duct. When doing so, be sure to consult the manufacturer's literature on the return grill size as to avoid noise and decrease restrictions.

Do you need an exact size air filter? The answer is yes! Without the right size filter, your HVAC unit won't be able to function properly and you won't get the full benefits of an air filter.


When shopping for an air filter, remember that the nominal size is the one advertised. It is usually rounded up and may be 0.25-0.5 inches smaller than the actual size. The actual size is found on the filter frame, and it can vary by brand. Some less common sizes come true to size, which means the nominal size and the actual size are the same.


If you have to bend, force, or jam your air filter into place, it's too big. On the other hand, if it doesn't come within 1-2 fingers' width of all four corners of your air system handler's slot or frame, it's too small. The best-fit filter should fit into the slot or frame easily, without needing to be bent or smashed.


In summary, make sure to pick the right size air filter for your HVAC unit. It should fit into the slot or frame without needing to be forced or bent. This way, you'll get all the benefits of an air filter and your unit will run smoothly.

It is important to buy the right size HVAC air filter. Using the wrong one can cause your heating and cooling system to become inefficient and reduce the quality of your indoor air.


Using the wrong size filter or installing it incorrectly can lead to dust accumulating on the system's motors and blowers, which will reduce the system's performance. The type of filter you should use depends on your system and your needs, but could range from spun fiberglass, pleated paper or polyester fibers, and electrostatic pleats. You can also choose from washable or disposable filters.


No matter which type of filter is best for you, make sure to change or clean it regularly to maintain healthy air quality. Each filter also has a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, or MERV rating, which tells you what size particles it can trap. If you want to use a high-efficiency HEPA filter with a rating above 13, make sure your system is designed to work with them. Otherwise, the filter can block airflow and cause more harm than good.

When looking for an air filter size, understanding the standard stock size is key. This means that the HVAC unit's filter is a widely-available size that is easy to purchase. Popular examples include 16x20x1, 20x20x1, 16x25x1, and 20x25x1. It's important to make sure the right size filter is installed, as the wrong size can lead to air seepage and create added stress on the HVAC system, potentially damaging it and increasing energy bills.


Did you know US Home Filter has 80+ standard stock sizes available, many of which can't be found in stores? From the most common 16x20x1 and 20x20x1 to 8x16x1 and 30x36x2 to 25x29x4 and 20x25x6, we've got it all. And if it's not in stock, we can make it!


When picking the right size air filter, you'll need to consider nominal size and exact size. The nominal size is the approximate size (e.g. 16x25x1), and the exact size may be slightly smaller depending on the manufacturer. This is because the filter frames are manufactured in bulk and purchased as raw materials to make air filters.


It's also important to note that the filter doesn't need to fit with an airtight seal. It should be slightly smaller than the air filter housing slot so you can easily slide it in and out. In most cases, a standard size filter within 5/8 of an inch smaller than the housing slot is okay.

Are you trying to figure out what size air filter you need for your HVAC system? It can be a bit overwhelming with all the different sizes, materials, and types of air filters out there. Don't worry though, we’ve got you covered.


First off, check the dimensions of the air filter. Most will have them labeled on either the sides or the frame. If you don’t see the measurements, you can always measure the air filter yourself. It’s important to choose the right size, as it allows your HVAC system to work effectively and filters the air in your home. If the air filter is too small, air won't be properly filtered and could end up circulating around your home.


Now, let's talk about air filter sizing. It's essential to understand how this works if you want the right size for your home or office. The thicker the filter, the more efficient and longer lasting it is - a 1-inch air filter may need to be replaced every month while a 4-inch air filter can last up to six months. However, it's important to note that the replacement schedule may vary depending on the brand and type of air filter.


So, when you're looking to buy an air filter, you’ll know exactly what size to get. We hope this guide was helpful in answering your question, “What size air filter do I need?”. Now you can make a smart decision to fit your specific needs.