Description

Product Overview

The HIA101620 represents industrial-grade filtration engineering specifically designed for commercial HVAC systems demanding reliable pre-filtration with long-term reusability. This 16x20x1 washable aluminum mesh filter delivers professional-grade performance in the most demanding commercial and light industrial environments where equipment protection and operational cost reduction are critical priorities. Built to UL 900 Class 1 standards with continuous temperature rating of 275°F, this aluminum mesh filter provides facility managers and maintenance professionals with a permanent filtration solution that eliminates recurring replacement costs while maintaining optimal system airflow and equipment protection.

Constructed with a robust .030-inch thick aluminum alloy frame and 3-ply corrugated criss-cross aluminum screen wire media, the HIA101620 delivers 43% dust arrestance efficiency specifically calibrated for commercial pre-filtration applications. The 1-inch depth configuration provides exceptional dust-holding capacity of 65 grams per square foot—significantly outperforming standard 1-inch and 2-inch alternatives while maintaining low airflow resistance that protects blower motors and extends equipment service life. This washable mesh filter serves as the critical first line of defense in multi-stage filtration systems, capturing large particulates, dust, lint, and debris before they reach expensive downstream HEPA or high-efficiency pleated filters.

Unlike disposable alternatives that generate ongoing procurement and disposal costs, this reusable aluminum mesh filter delivers 10-15 years of continuous service with proper maintenance protocols. The all-aluminum construction—including mitered corners secured with aluminum pop rivets and 24-gauge face grids—ensures structural integrity through hundreds of cleaning cycles using standard commercial detergents, pressure washers, or industrial dishwashers. Three corner drain holes facilitate complete water removal after washing, preventing moisture retention and accelerating return-to-service time. Made in USA with premium materials and precision manufacturing, the HIA101620 represents the gold standard in permanent washable filtration for facilities prioritizing reliability, sustainability, and total cost of ownership reduction.

Residential properties, small commercial offices, retail spaces, restaurants, and light commercial facilities rely on these industrial-grade aluminum mesh filters to protect critical HVAC infrastructure while minimizing environmental impact through elimination of disposable filter waste. The 16x20x1 configuration fits standard commercial air handler frames and custom filter banks, providing versatility for retrofit installations and new construction projects. With low initial airflow resistance and the ability to maintain performance through repeated cleaning cycles, this washable mesh filter delivers measurable ROI through reduced maintenance labor, eliminated disposal fees, and frequent cleaning cycles with minimal pressure drop compared to disposable filtration products.

Technical Specifications

This 16x20x1 aluminum mesh filter represents precision-engineered metal mesh filter technology designed for demanding applications. As professional-grade washable filters with metal filter construction,The HIA101620 16x20x1 washable aluminum mesh filter represents precision-engineered filtration technology designed for demanding commercial and light industrial HVAC applications. This 1-inch depth aluminum pre-filter delivers exceptional performance specifications validated through rigorous UL 900 Class 1 testing, ensuring reliable operation in continuous 275°F environments where conventional filters fail. Every dimension, material gauge, and construction detail has been optimized to provide maximum dust-holding capacity while maintaining low airflow resistance critical for energy-efficient HVAC system operation.

Manufactured in the USA using premium .030″ thick aluminum alloy framing and 3-ply corrugated criss-cross aluminum screen wire media, this washable mesh filter meets the stringent requirements of commercial kitchen exhaust systems, manufacturing facilities, and industrial air handling units. The 15.75″ x 19.75″ x 0.75″ actual dimensions ensure precise fit in standard 16x20x1 nominal filter housings, while the 43% dust arrestance efficiency protects downstream HEPA and high-efficiency pleated filters from premature loading. With 65 grams per square foot dust-holding capacity—significantly higher than 1-inch or 2-inch alternatives—this 1-inch depth configuration extends cleaning intervals and reduces maintenance labor costs in high-particulate environments.

The comprehensive specifications below detail every aspect of construction, performance, and certification data required for HVAC system design, procurement specifications, and regulatory compliance documentation. Each specification has been verified through third-party testing to ensure consistent quality and performance across every unit manufactured.

Industrial Applications

The HIA101620 16x20x1 washable aluminum mesh filter delivers versatile performance across diverse commercial, industrial, and institutional environments where high-temperature tolerance, repeated cleaning capability, and long-term cost savings are essential. With its 275°F continuous temperature rating and durable 3-ply aluminum construction, this industrial-grade filter excels in demanding applications from commercial kitchens and manufacturing facilities to data centers and educational institutions requiring reliable air filtration without recurring replacement costs.

Commercial HVAC Systems

Commercial kitchens, restaurants, hotels, and hospitality facilities rely on the HIA101620 16x20x1 aluminum mesh filter for grease-laden exhaust applications where high-temperature environments and frequent cleaning are unavoidable. The 275°F continuous temperature rating makes this filter ideal for exhaust hoods, commercial cooking ventilation, and food service operations where airborne grease particles and elevated temperatures would quickly degrade disposable filters. Restaurant chains and hotel properties appreciate the repeated washing capability—simply run the filters through commercial dishwashers or pressure wash with degreasing detergent between shifts to maintain optimal performance. The aluminum construction resists corrosion from grease, moisture, and cleaning chemicals while providing 43% dust arrestance to protect downstream HVAC equipment. Facility managers report significant cost reductions by eliminating monthly filter purchases, reducing fire risk from grease accumulation, and minimizing labor hours spent on filter changeouts across multiple locations. For commercial HVAC contractors servicing hospitality clients, these washable filters deliver measurable ROI within the first year while extending equipment life and improving kitchen air quality.

Manufacturing and Industrial Facilities

Production floors, metalworking shops, welding facilities, and industrial manufacturing operations depend on the HIA101620 mesh filter to handle heavy particulate loads in harsh environments where disposable filters fail prematurely. The robust 3-ply aluminum screen wire media captures metal shavings, grinding dust, welding fume particles, and industrial debris while maintaining low airflow resistance that preserves HVAC system efficiency. Manufacturing facilities operating paint booths, powder coating ovens, or high-temperature processes benefit from the 275°F rating that allows continuous operation without filter degradation or fire hazards. Industrial maintenance teams pressure wash these filters weekly or monthly depending on production schedules, eliminating the recurring expense and disposal logistics of hundreds of disposable filters annually. Automotive plants, aerospace manufacturers, and machine shops report 10-15 year service life with proper cleaning protocols, translating to thousands of dollars saved per filter location. The 1-inch depth provides high airflow capacity with excellent particle capture compared to thinner alternatives, extending cleaning intervals and reducing HVAC maintenance downtime in 24/7 production environments where every minute of system unavailability impacts output.

Educational and Institutional Buildings

Schools, universities, hospitals, government buildings, and public facilities face budget constraints that make the HIA101620 16x20x1 washable filter an economically superior choice for large HVAC systems requiring hundreds of filter units. Educational institutions with centralized mechanical rooms serving multiple buildings eliminate recurring filter procurement costs by investing in permanent washable solutions that outlast disposable alternatives by decades. Hospital facilities managers appreciate the ability to maintain consistent indoor air quality without generating medical waste from disposable filters, supporting sustainability initiatives while protecting sensitive patient care environments. University physical plant departments standardize on these aluminum mesh filters across campus buildings, training maintenance staff to clean filters on quarterly schedules using institutional dishwashing equipment or pressure washing stations. The 43% dust arrestance protects expensive HEPA and final-stage filters in critical applications like hospital operating rooms, laboratory research facilities, and clean manufacturing spaces. Government buildings and public institutions benefit from reduced procurement cycles, simplified inventory management, and measurable cost avoidance that demonstrates fiscal responsibility to taxpayers and oversight bodies. The Made in USA construction supports institutional purchasing requirements while delivering 10-15 year reliability.

Multi-Family Properties and Light Commercial Applications

Apartment complexes, condominium buildings, townhome communities, and property management companies operating commercial-grade HVAC systems realize significant operational savings by deploying HIA101620 washable aluminum pre-filters in their mechanical rooms and rooftop units. Multi-family properties with central air handling systems requiring pre-filtration stages benefit from the long-term reusability and 10-15 year service life, eliminating recurring filter procurement costs across hundreds of residential units. Property managers serving large portfolios reduce maintenance labor by standardizing on washable pre-filters that protect downstream high-efficiency filters from premature loading. The 275°F temperature rating and durable aluminum construction withstand continuous operation in commercial rooftop units and air handlers typically found in multi-family buildings, where reliable pre-filtration extends the life of expensive HEPA or MERV-rated secondary filters.

IMPORTANT FITMENT NOTE: These are industrial pre-filters designed for commercial HVAC equipment with multi-stage filtration systems. Standard single-family residential HVAC units typically do NOT use pre-filters. Before ordering, verify your HVAC system uses a pre-filter stage and measure your existing filter housing dimensions. Pre-filter applications include: multi-family buildings with commercial rooftop units or central air handlers, custom residential installations with whole-house air purification systems, indoor pool dehumidification equipment, wine cellar climate control systems, and home workshop dust collection systems. The customer is responsible for verifying correct filter dimensions and system compatibility before purchase.

Data Centers and Server Rooms

Data centers, server rooms, telecommunications facilities, and critical IT infrastructure require uncompromising reliability from every component in their precision cooling systems—making the HIA101620 16x20x1 aluminum mesh filter an essential pre-filtration stage protecting expensive downstream HEPA filters and sensitive equipment from particulate contamination. The 3-ply construction provides consistent airflow performance in 24/7 operation environments where even minor pressure fluctuations can trigger cooling alarms or equipment shutdowns. Data center operators schedule quarterly cleaning cycles during maintenance windows, pressure washing filters with deionized water to remove accumulated dust without introducing contaminants that could migrate into clean rooms or equipment spaces. The 43% dust arrestance captures the majority of airborne particles before they reach final-stage filters, extending the life of expensive HEPA filters that protect server racks, storage arrays, and networking equipment from dust-related failures. Colocation facilities and cloud service providers appreciate the predictable performance and elimination of filter supply chain risks that could compromise uptime SLAs. The aluminum construction prevents fiber shedding or media degradation that disposable filters exhibit under constant airflow, maintaining clean room specifications and preventing particulate introduction into mission-critical environments where equipment replacement costs can exceed millions of dollars per incident.

Construction Features

The HIA101620 16x20x1 washable aluminum mesh filter represents precision industrial manufacturing with UL 900 Class 1 certification for continuous operation at 275°F. Every component is engineered for maximum durability and performance in commercial HVAC applications, from the heavy-duty aluminum alloy frame to the multi-layer 3-ply screen wire media. Made in USA with stringent quality control ensures consistent dimensional accuracy and structural integrity that withstands decades of repeated cleaning cycles.

Aluminum Alloy Frame Construction

The foundation of this industrial mesh filter begins with a precision-formed .030-inch thick aluminum alloy frame engineered for maximum structural rigidity and dimensional stability. This heavy-gauge construction provides superior resistance to warping and distortion even under continuous exposure to 275°F operating temperatures common in commercial HVAC systems. The aluminum alloy composition delivers exceptional corrosion resistance in humid environments while maintaining its structural properties through repeated cleaning cycles. Professional-grade welded joints and reinforced corners ensure the frame maintains perfect dimensional accuracy of 23.5 inches by 23.5 inches by 3.75 inches throughout its 10-15 year service life, preventing bypass air leakage that compromises filtration efficiency.

9-Ply Screen Wire Media

The filtration media consists of nine layers of corrugated aluminum screen wire arranged in a precision criss-cross weave pattern that achieves 43% dust arrestance efficiency while maintaining optimal airflow characteristics. Each layer features expanded aluminum mesh construction with carefully engineered strand spacing and corrugation depth to capture particles across multiple stages. This multi-ply configuration creates a three-dimensional filtration matrix where particles are intercepted through multiple mechanisms rather than relying on a single barrier layer. The corrugated structure provides increased surface area within the 1-inch depth while the criss-cross weave pattern ensures uniform particle distribution across the entire media pack. This engineering approach delivers high airflow capacity with excellent particle capture and frequent cleaning cycles with minimal pressure drop between cleanings compared to single-layer alternatives.

1-Inch Depth Design

The 1-inch depth specification provides substantial advantages over thinner 1-inch or 2-inch mesh filter designs commonly used in residential applications. This increased depth allows for significantly greater dust-holding capacity rated at 65 grams per square foot, which directly translates to extended intervals between cleaning cycles and reduced maintenance frequency in commercial operations. The deeper media pack reduces initial pressure drop across the filter while maintaining consistent airflow resistance as particulate loading increases over time. This depth dimension represents the industry standard for commercial and light industrial HVAC systems where reliable performance and minimal maintenance intervention are critical operational requirements. The 1-inch profile also provides superior structural rigidity that prevents media compression under high-velocity airflow conditions.

Reinforced Corner Construction

Each corner of the filter frame features heavy-duty reinforcement designed to withstand the mechanical stresses of repeated handling, installation, removal, and cleaning operations throughout the filter’s multi-year service life. The reinforced corner assembly prevents frame distortion that could create gaps between the filter and housing, which would allow unfiltered bypass air to compromise system performance. Precision-engineered corner joints maintain the critical 90-degree angles essential for proper sealing against standard filter housings and racks. The reinforcement design distributes mechanical loads evenly across the frame structure, preventing localized stress concentrations that could lead to premature failure. This robust corner construction ensures the filter maintains dimensional integrity and perfect sealing even after hundreds of installation and removal cycles.

Drainage and Airflow Design

The open mesh construction and aluminum material composition enable rapid and complete water drainage following cleaning operations, with typical drying times of just 30 to 60 minutes under normal ambient conditions. The corrugated media design creates natural drainage channels that prevent water pooling within the filter structure, eliminating environments conducive to bacterial growth, mold development, or odor formation. Strategic drainage pathways ensure no trapped moisture remains in corner joints or frame channels where stagnant water could compromise hygiene or accelerate corrosion. The open architecture also optimizes airflow patterns through the media layers, creating uniform velocity distribution across the entire filter face area. This engineered airflow design prevents localized high-velocity zones that could cause premature media wear while ensuring consistent particle capture across all nine media layers.

Face Grid Protection

Both the upstream and downstream faces of the filter incorporate 24-gauge aluminum protective grids that shield the delicate inner 3-ply media layers from physical damage during handling, installation, and operation. These face grids distribute incoming airflow uniformly across the entire filter surface, preventing concentrated jet streams that could damage the corrugated media structure or create uneven particle loading patterns. The grid construction provides substantial impact resistance against accidental contact during filter changeouts or maintenance activities while adding minimal airflow resistance to the overall filter assembly. The professional appearance of the aluminum face grids also indicates quality construction to facility managers and maintenance personnel. These protective grids contribute to the extended service life by maintaining the structural integrity of the internal media pack throughout thousands of operational hours and hundreds of cleaning cycles.

Maintenance & Cleaning

The HIA101620 16x20x1 washable aluminum mesh filter requires minimal maintenance while delivering 10-15 years of reliable service. Unlike disposable filters requiring monthly replacement, this industrial-grade aluminum filter supports repeated cleaning cycles using standard water-based methods without expensive cleaning agents or replacement costs. Simple periodic washing restores the 3-ply aluminum screen wire media to optimal performance, maintaining the 43% dust arrestance efficiency and protecting downstream HVAC equipment.

Cleaning Methods

Four effective cleaning methods accommodate different facility capabilities and filter contamination levels. Pressure washing delivers the fastest results for commercial operations, using 1000-1500 PSI with warm water to remove accumulated dust and debris in 3-5 minutes per filter. Commercial dishwashers provide hands-free cleaning for facilities with industrial dishwashing equipment, running standard wash cycles at 140-160°F water temperature. The sink or tub soaking method works well for smaller operations, submerging the mesh filter in warm soapy water for 15-30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with clean water. Garden hose cleaning offers the simplest approach for light contamination, using high-pressure nozzle settings to spray both sides of the filter media until water runs clear. Optional mild degreaser or alkaline cleaner assists with heavy grease accumulation in kitchen exhaust applications, though most installations require only warm water for effective cleaning. The aluminum construction withstands repeated washing without degradation, maintaining structural integrity throughout the filter’s 10-15 year service life while operating continuously at temperatures up to 275°F.

Recommended Cleaning Products

While most washable aluminum filters clean effectively with warm water alone, facilities with heavy grease or industrial contamination may benefit from aluminum-safe cleaning solutions. When selecting cleaning products, always verify compatibility with aluminum to prevent corrosion or surface damage. Avoid cleaners containing high alkaline content (pH > 10), acidic formulations (pH < 4), chlorine bleach, ammonia-based compounds, or abrasive particles that can damage the aluminum frame and screen wire media. For specific cleaning product recommendations tailored to your application environment—whether commercial kitchen exhaust, manufacturing facility, or institutional HVAC system—contact our filtration specialists who can recommend aluminum-safe solutions based on your contamination levels and cleaning frequency requirements.

Recommended Cleaning Frequency

Cleaning intervals depend on operating environment and particulate loading rates, with visual inspection determining optimal timing. Light dust environments such as office buildings or retail spaces require quarterly cleaning every three months to maintain proper airflow and 43% dust arrestance efficiency. Moderate commercial applications including manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and institutional buildings benefit from monthly cleaning schedules to prevent excessive pressure drop across the 1-inch depth filter media. Heavy industrial operations with continuous particulate generation need weekly to bi-weekly cleaning intervals to sustain optimal HVAC system performance and protect expensive downstream filtration equipment. Grease-laden commercial kitchen exhaust systems demand the most frequent maintenance, requiring cleaning after each shift or daily to prevent fire hazards and maintain proper ventilation rates. Visual inspection provides the most reliable cleaning indicator, with cleaning necessary when the 3-ply aluminum screen wire media appears visibly loaded with dust or when measured pressure drop exceeds manufacturer specifications by 0.3-0.5 inches water column. Establishing documented cleaning schedules based on actual operating conditions optimizes filter performance while maximizing the cost savings of reusable filtration.

Drying and Reinstallation

Complete drying before reinstallation prevents moisture-related problems and maintains optimal filter performance in HVAC systems rated for continuous 275°F operation. Air drying requires 30-60 minutes in typical indoor conditions, with the aluminum frame’s three corner drain holes facilitating complete water removal from the filter assembly. Accelerated drying using portable fans or air movers reduces waiting time to 15-20 minutes, especially beneficial for commercial operations requiring rapid filter changeout. Inspect the cleaned and dried mesh filter for frame damage, bent corners, or torn media before reinstalling, as handling during cleaning may occasionally cause minor damage requiring repair or replacement. Proper orientation during reinstallation ensures the filter seats correctly in the holding frame, with gasket surfaces clean and smooth for effective air sealing. Recording cleaning dates, pressure drop measurements, and filter condition observations in maintenance logs establishes documented service history supporting long-term performance tracking. The combination of aluminum construction durability and proper drying procedures ensures each cleaning cycle fully restores the filter’s 43% dust arrestance efficiency without compromising the expected 10-15 year service life.

Maximizing Service Life

Proper handling techniques and operational awareness extend the HIA101620 aluminum mesh filter’s service life to the full 10-15 year potential while minimizing total filtration costs. Avoid excessive pressure during cleaning that could deform the .030-inch thick aluminum frame or damage the 3-ply aluminum screen wire media, using moderate pressure washing settings between 1000-1500 PSI rather than industrial-grade 3000+ PSI equipment. Regular inspection for frame damage, cracked corners, or media tears during each cleaning cycle identifies problems before they compromise filter performance or allow bypass airflow around damaged areas. Maintaining HVAC system temperatures within the 275°F continuous rating prevents thermal damage to the aluminum construction and ensures long-term structural integrity. Calculate total cost of ownership by comparing the one-time purchase price plus minimal cleaning costs against 120-180 disposable filters replaced over the same 10-15 year period, demonstrating cost savings exceeding 300-500% for washable aluminum filters. The combination of repeated cleaning capability, robust industrial-grade construction, and simple water-based maintenance procedures makes washable aluminum mesh filters the most economical choice for commercial and light industrial HVAC applications requiring reliable 1-inch depth pre-filtration with maximum service life and minimum recurring costs.

Installation

Installing the HIA101620 16x20x1 washable aluminum mesh filter is a straightforward process that fits standard 16x20x1 filter housings used throughout commercial and industrial HVAC systems. Professional HVAC contractors or trained facility maintenance staff can complete the installation in minutes with proper procedures. Following the guidelines below ensures optimal performance, proper sealing, and long-term reliability of your 3-ply aluminum filtration system.

Pre-Installation Considerations

Before installing your new washable aluminum mesh filter, verify that your filter housing accepts standard 16x20x1 nominal size filters with actual dimensions of 23.5 inches by 23.5 inches by 3.75 inches depth. Inspect the filter housing interior for accumulated dust, debris, or damage that could compromise the seal or restrict airflow. Check the condition of existing gaskets or sealing surfaces, and have replacement gaskets available if the current ones show signs of wear, cracking, or compression set. Ensure the HVAC system is completely shut down and locked out before accessing the filter compartment for safety. Locate the airflow direction arrow on your existing filter to understand proper orientation for the new installation. Verify that your HVAC system operates within the filter’s temperature rating of 275°F continuous operation to prevent damage to the aluminum frame and media. Clean hands or wearing clean gloves during installation helps maintain the filter’s cleanliness and prevents contamination of the 3-ply aluminum screen wire media.

Installation Steps

Begin by completely shutting down your HVAC system and verifying power is disconnected to prevent accidental startup during installation. Open the filter access door or remove the access panel according to your system’s design. Carefully remove the old filter from the housing, noting its orientation and airflow direction. Thoroughly clean the filter housing interior with a vacuum or damp cloth to remove accumulated dust and ensure optimal sealing surfaces for the new filter. Inspect the aluminum frame of your new HIA101620 filter and locate the airflow direction arrow clearly marked on the frame. The lightweight 2.8 pound construction makes handling easy while the rigid aluminum frame maintains its shape during installation. Insert the filter into the housing with the airflow arrow pointing in the correct direction of air movement through your system. Press the filter firmly into place ensuring all edges seat properly against the gasket or housing walls to prevent bypass air leakage. Verify the filter fits snugly without gaps around the perimeter before securing the access door or panel.

Post-Installation Verification

After securing the filter access door, restore power to the HVAC system and restart normal operation. Listen carefully for any unusual sounds such as air whistling or rattling that might indicate improper seating or air bypass around the filter frame. Verify proper airflow by checking air velocity at supply registers or grilles matches expected performance levels. If your system includes pressure drop gauges or monitoring equipment, record the initial clean filter pressure drop reading to establish a baseline for future maintenance scheduling. Monitor the system operation for the first 16 hours after installation to ensure stable performance and no unexpected issues arise. The filter’s 43% dust arrestance efficiency will immediately begin protecting your downstream HVAC components and any secondary filtration stages from large particles and debris. Document the installation date in your facility maintenance records to track the filter’s service life and plan for the first cleaning cycle based on your specific environmental conditions. Establish a regular inspection schedule to monitor dust accumulation and maintain optimal system performance throughout the filter’s 10 to 15 year expected service life.

Related Products

The HIA101620 16x20x1 Washable Aluminum Mesh Filter is part of our comprehensive HI Series industrial filtration line, engineered for demanding commercial and light industrial applications. Each filter in the HI Series features 3-ply aluminum screen wire media construction with 43% dust arrestance efficiency, providing reliable pre-filtration protection for downstream HVAC components while maintaining optimal airflow performance.

Customers requiring different dimensions or specialized material properties can select from our complete range of HI Series washable filters, all manufactured with the same industrial-grade construction standards and made in the USA.

All HI Series filters feature mitered corners with aluminum pop rivets, three corner drain holes for complete water removal after washing, and provide 10-15 year service life with proper maintenance protocols.

Complementary Products

The HIA101620 16x20x1 washable aluminum mesh filter with 3-ply construction and 275°F temperature rating excels as a pre-filtration stage, but complete HVAC protection requires a comprehensive multi-stage filtration approach. By combining this industrial-grade washable pre-filter with specialized secondary filtration products, facility managers achieve optimal indoor air quality while maximizing equipment protection and energy efficiency.

The 43% dust arrestance efficiency of this 1-inch depth aluminum pre-filter makes it the ideal foundation for advanced filtration systems in commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities requiring superior air quality control.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this filter be washed and reused?

Yes, this aluminum mesh filter is designed for repeated washing and reuse throughout its 10-15 year service life. The 3-ply aluminum screen wire media and .030″ thick aluminum frame construction withstand repeated cleaning cycles without degradation. Clean using standard detergents with warm water, pressure washing equipment, or commercial dishwashers. The three corner drain holes ensure complete water removal after cleaning. Unlike disposable filters requiring monthly replacement, this washable solution eliminates recurring filter costs while maintaining consistent performance through hundreds of cleaning cycles.

What is the temperature rating for continuous operation?

This filter is UL 900 Class 1 certified for continuous operation at 275°F, making it suitable for high-temperature commercial and light industrial HVAC applications. The all-aluminum construction maintains structural integrity and filtration performance at elevated temperatures where disposable filters would fail or present fire hazards. This temperature rating makes it ideal for rooftop HVAC units, commercial kitchen makeup air systems, industrial process air handlers, and manufacturing facilities with heat-generating equipment. The 275°F continuous rating provides reliable performance in demanding thermal environments.

How often does this filter need to be cleaned?

Cleaning frequency depends on your specific environment and airborne particulate levels. Most commercial HVAC applications require cleaning every 30-90 days under normal conditions. High-particulate environments like manufacturing facilities or commercial kitchens may require monthly cleaning, while cleaner office buildings might extend to quarterly maintenance. Monitor the filter visually for dust accumulation buildup or when you notice reduced airflow through your HVAC system. Establishing a regular inspection schedule ensures optimal performance and prevents excessive pressure drop across your filtration system.

What is the expected service life?

With proper maintenance and regular cleaning, this aluminum mesh filter delivers 10-15 years of reliable service life. The durable .030″ aluminum frame construction and aluminum screen wire media resist corrosion, maintain dimensional stability, and withstand hundreds of cleaning cycles without performance degradation. This exceptional longevity translates to significant cost savings compared to disposable filters requiring monthly replacement. A single investment in this washable filter eliminates 120-180 disposable filter purchases over its service life, reducing both filter costs and disposal waste while maintaining consistent HVAC system protection.

Is this filter compatible with my 16x20x1 filter housing?

This filter fits standard 16x20x1 nominal filter housings with actual dimensions of 15.5″x15.5″x0.75″. The nominal sizing follows industry standards where filters are manufactured slightly undersized to ensure proper fit in standard HVAC equipment filter tracks. Before ordering, verify your filter housing accepts 1-inch depth filters, as some systems are designed only for 1-inch or 2-inch depths. Measure your existing filter or filter housing opening to confirm compatibility. The aluminum frame construction provides rigid dimensional stability ensuring consistent fit throughout the filter’s 10-15 year service life.

Can I use this filter in a commercial kitchen exhaust system?

Yes, the 275°F continuous temperature rating and aluminum construction make this filter suitable for commercial kitchen makeup air systems and fresh air intakes, but not grease-laden exhaust hoods requiring UL 1046 listed grease filters. This pre-filter excels in protecting rooftop HVAC units supplying conditioned air to commercial kitchens, capturing dust and outdoor contaminants before they enter the building. The washable aluminum construction withstands elevated temperatures from rooftop equipment exposure and cleans easily using commercial dishwashers. For grease exhaust applications, use UL 1046 rated baffle or mesh grease filters designed specifically for that purpose.

What is the difference between HIA, HIG, and HIS series?

The primary difference is material construction affecting temperature rating and corrosion resistance. HIA series (this model) uses aluminum frames and media with 275°F continuous rating, ideal for most commercial HVAC applications offering excellent corrosion resistance and lightweight handling. HIG series features galvanized steel construction with higher temperature ratings suitable for industrial applications requiring extreme heat resistance. HIS series uses stainless steel frames and media providing superior corrosion resistance for harsh environments, coastal installations, or food processing facilities. All three series offer the same 1-inch depth and 43% dust arrestance efficiency with washable, reusable construction.

How do I know when the filter needs cleaning?

Visual inspection provides the most reliable indicator for cleaning requirements. When the aluminum screen wire media appears covered with dust accumulation or shows visible particulate buildup, schedule cleaning. Additionally, monitor your HVAC system for reduced airflow, increased fan noise, or higher-than-normal static pressure readings indicating restricted airflow. Most commercial building management systems track pressure drop across filters, triggering alerts when differential pressure exceeds design parameters. Establishing a regular monthly visual inspection schedule prevents excessive buildup, maintains optimal system efficiency, and extends equipment service life by preventing undue strain on HVAC fans and motors.

Can this filter replace disposable pleated filters?

This aluminum mesh filter functions as a pre-filter protecting downstream HEPA or high-efficiency pleated filters, not as a direct replacement for pleated filters. With 43% dust arrestance efficiency, it captures large particles, dust, and debris before they reach your primary filtration system, significantly extending the service life of expensive downstream filters. Most commercial HVAC systems use a multi-stage filtration approach combining washable pre-filters with higher-efficiency final filters. This pre-filter stage reduces total filtration system costs while protecting expensive high-efficiency pleated filters from premature loading, creating a more economical and sustainable air filtration solution.

Is this filter made in the USA?

Yes, this filter is manufactured in the United States using domestic aluminum materials and American craftsmanship. US manufacturing ensures consistent quality control, adherence to UL 900 safety standards, and reliable product availability without international shipping delays. Supporting American manufacturing provides quality assurance, rapid replacement availability, and responsive customer service from domestic suppliers familiar with US commercial HVAC requirements and building codes. The Made in USA designation reflects commitment to quality materials, precision construction methods, and durable performance meeting the demanding requirements of commercial building operators and facility maintenance professionals.

Why Choose the HIA101620 16x20x1 Washable Aluminum Mesh Filter?

The HIA101620 16x20x1 washable aluminum mesh filter represents a strategic investment that eliminates recurring filter replacement costs while delivering reliable filtration performance year after year. With a service life of 10-15 years and repeated cleaning capability, this industrial-grade filter pays for itself within the first 12-18 months compared to disposable alternatives. Facility managers and maintenance professionals choose this washable solution to reduce operational expenses, minimize downtime associated with frequent filter changes, and gain complete control over maintenance schedules without dependence on recurring supply orders or vendor availability.

Built to the highest standards of industrial filtration engineering, this filter features rugged 3-ply aluminum screen wire media bonded to a .030-inch thick aluminum frame designed for continuous operation in demanding environments. The UL 900 Class 1 certification confirms this unit’s capability to perform reliably at temperatures up to 275°F, making it suitable for high-temperature applications including commercial kitchen exhaust systems, industrial ovens, paint spray booths, and process ventilation. Manufactured in the USA with precision-welded construction and mitered corners reinforced with aluminum pop rivets, this filter delivers the durability and consistency that commercial and industrial facilities demand from critical HVAC components.

The 1-inch depth configuration provides high airflow capacity with excellent particle capture and frequent cleaning cycles with minimal pressure drop across diverse commercial and institutional applications. With 43% dust arrestance efficiency, this aluminum mesh filter effectively captures large particles, lint, and airborne debris that would otherwise compromise downstream HEPA filters or high-efficiency media, extending the life of expensive secondary filtration systems. From hospital HVAC systems and pharmaceutical clean rooms to manufacturing facilities and data centers, this versatile pre-filter protects sensitive equipment while maintaining optimal airflow and system efficiency. The three strategically positioned corner drain holes ensure complete water removal after washing, preventing moisture retention and enabling rapid return to service.

Choosing the HIA101620 washable aluminum mesh filter demonstrates environmental responsibility while reducing your facility’s contribution to landfill waste. Unlike disposable filters that create thousands of pounds of waste annually, this reusable solution eliminates recurring disposal costs and supports corporate sustainability initiatives without compromising filtration performance. The combination of American manufacturing quality, long-term reusability, exceptional temperature resistance, and proven longevity makes this filter the intelligent choice for facility managers who demand both economic value and operational reliability. Invest in proven performance that protects your HVAC equipment, reduces long-term costs, and supports sustainable facility management practices for the next decade and beyond.