17-1/2 x 23 x 7/8 Exact Aluminum Foil Mesh Filter

Description

The 17-1/2 × 23 × 7/8 Exact Aluminum Filter from American Metal Filter Company (AMFCO) is a durable, washable impingement-type panel filter designed for a wide range of HVAC applications. Manufactured in the USA, this filter provides reliable performance and extends the lifespan of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems by effectively removing airborne particulate and coolant mist.

Engineered with multiple layers of corrugated aluminum screen wire media, this HI Series filter offers superior dust arrestance and holding capacity compared to disposable alternatives. Its robust construction, featuring a .030” thick aluminum frame and 24 gauge aluminum face grids, ensures longevity and consistent airflow, making it an economical and environmentally conscious choice for residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

Choosing an AMFCO aluminum filter means investing in a high-quality, reusable solution that reduces waste and maintenance costs while maintaining optimal indoor air quality. Its precise 17-1/2” × 23” × 7/8” dimensions ensure a perfect fit for systems requiring exact sizing, preventing air bypass and maximizing filtration efficiency.

What Is the 17-1/2 × 23 × 7/8 Exact Aluminum Filter?

The 17-1/2 × 23 × 7/8 Exact Aluminum Filter is a high-performance, impingement-type washable panel filter manufactured by American Metal Filter Company (AMFCO). Designed for precision and durability, this filter effectively captures airborne contaminants such as dust, lint, and coolant mist through its multi-layered aluminum screen wire media. Its robust construction and washable design make it an ideal replacement for disposable filters in various HVAC systems, offering both environmental and economic advantages.

Operating on the principle of impingement, the filter’s progressive-density media pack traps particles throughout its depth. Larger particles are captured at the air entrance, while progressively smaller particles are arrested deeper within the filter, ensuring high dust holding capacity and consistent airflow. With an average dust arrestance of 43% at a rated airflow of 350 FPM, this filter significantly contributes to cleaner air and protects HVAC equipment from particulate buildup.

Size Reference: 17-1/2 × 23 × 7/8 Exact Aluminum Filter

Understanding filter dimensions is crucial for proper fit and performance. This section provides the exact measurements for the AMFCO HI Series Aluminum Filter. Unlike many filters that use nominal sizes, this product is specified by its precise actual dimensions, ensuring a snug and efficient fit within your system and preventing air bypass.

Filter Size Attribute	Actual Dimensions (Length × Width × Depth)
17.5 x 23 x .875	17-1/2” × 23” × 7/8”

Versatile Applications for AMFCO Aluminum Filters

Application	Why This Filter	Key Requirement
Commercial HVAC Systems	Provides durable, washable filtration for offices, retail, and public buildings, reducing operational costs and improving indoor air quality.	Reliable particle arrestance, long service life, low maintenance, consistent airflow.
Industrial Ventilation	Effective in capturing airborne particulate and coolant mist in manufacturing environments, protecting machinery and worker health.	Robust construction, high dust holding capacity, resistance to industrial contaminants, washable.
Outdoor Air Intake Ducts	Prevents larger debris, insects, and environmental particulate from entering HVAC systems, crucial for rooftop units and fresh air supply.	Weather resistance, durable frame, effective pre-filtration, easy cleaning.
Rooftop Economizer Hoods	Protects economizer coils and dampers from environmental debris, ensuring efficient free cooling operation and system longevity.	Corrosion resistance, easy cleaning, consistent airflow, structural integrity.
Electronic Air Cleaners (Pre-filter)	Serves as a pre-filter to capture larger particles, extending the life and efficiency of electrostatic precipitators and other fine filters.	Washable, non-shedding media, stable airflow, protects downstream components.
Central Air Conditioners	Maintains coil cleanliness and system efficiency in residential and light commercial AC units, reducing energy consumption and maintenance.	Consistent filtration, washable for seasonal maintenance, exact fit to prevent bypass.
Computer Environment Systems	Protects sensitive electronic equipment from dust accumulation, preventing overheating, system failures, and costly downtime.	Non-conductive media, reliable particle capture, low pressure drop, durable.

How This AMFCO HI Series Aluminum Filter Is Constructed

The AMFCO HI Series Aluminum Filter is meticulously engineered for durability and effective filtration. Each component is selected and assembled to ensure maximum performance and longevity in demanding HVAC environments, adhering to strict manufacturing standards in the USA.

Aluminum Frame

The filter features a robust frame constructed from .030” thick aluminum. This lightweight yet strong material resists corrosion and maintains structural integrity over time, even in humid or industrial conditions. The frame is assembled with mitered corners, secured by pop-rivet(s) for enhanced rigidity and stability, and includes drain holes in three corners to facilitate efficient cleaning and drying, preventing water retention.

Multi-Layered Aluminum Screen Wire Media

At the core of the filter’s performance is its media pack, composed of five (5) layers of corrugated aluminum screen wire. These layers are assembled in a criss-cross fashion, creating a progressive-density design. This arrangement ensures that larger particles are captured at the air entrance, while progressively smaller particles are trapped deeper within the filter, maximizing dust holding capacity and preventing premature surface loading for extended service intervals.

24 Gauge Aluminum Face Grids

Protecting the delicate media pack and providing additional structural support are the 24 gauge aluminum face grids. These grids are securely integrated into the frame, preventing media migration and ensuring the filter maintains its shape even under varying airflow conditions and during cleaning. The aluminum construction of the face grids matches the frame and media, contributing to the filter’s overall corrosion resistance and durability, ensuring a long operational life.

Installation Instructions for Your AMFCO Aluminum Filter

Proper installation of your AMFCO HI Series Aluminum Filter is essential for optimal performance and system protection. Follow these guidelines to ensure a secure and effective fit, maximizing filtration efficiency and extending the life of your HVAC equipment.

Before Installing

• Verify Dimensions: Double-check that the actual dimensions of your new 17-1/2” × 23” × 7/8” filter match the required size for your HVAC unit. An exact fit is crucial to prevent air bypass.
• Inspect Filter: Ensure the filter is clean, dry, and free from any damage before installation. A damaged filter may not perform effectively.
• Identify Airflow Direction: Locate the airflow arrow clearly marked on the filter frame. This arrow must point in the direction of the air moving through your system (typically towards the furnace, air handler, or cooling coil).
• Turn Off System: For safety, always turn off your HVAC system at the thermostat and the main power switch or circuit breaker before accessing the filter compartment.

Installation Steps

1. Locate Filter Slot: Identify the filter slot or return air grille in your furnace, air handler, central air conditioning unit, or other HVAC equipment.
2. Remove Old Filter: Carefully slide out the old filter. Note its orientation and the direction of its airflow arrow for reference.
3. Clean Compartment: If necessary, gently wipe down the filter compartment to remove any accumulated dust or debris that could contaminate the new filter or restrict airflow.
4. Insert New Filter: With the airflow arrow pointing towards the furnace/air handler, slide the new AMFCO filter into the slot. Ensure it sits flush and securely within the compartment, leaving no gaps.
5. Close Compartment: Securely close the filter compartment door or replace the return air grille, ensuring all latches or screws are fastened.
6. Restore Power: Turn the main power switch or circuit breaker and the thermostat back on.
7. Check Operation: Briefly run your HVAC system to confirm proper operation and airflow. Listen for any unusual noises or air leaks around the filter.

Notes by System Type

• Upflow Furnaces: The filter typically installs in a slot at the bottom or side of the furnace, with the arrow pointing upwards towards the heat exchanger/coil.
• Downflow Furnaces: The filter usually installs in a slot at the top or side of the furnace, with the arrow pointing downwards towards the heat exchanger/coil.
• Horizontal Furnaces/Air Handlers: The filter installs in a side slot, with the arrow pointing horizontally towards the unit’s internal components.
• Return-Air Grille Installations: The filter is placed directly behind the grille in the wall or ceiling, with the arrow pointing into the ductwork towards the central unit.

Cleaning and Maintenance for Your Washable Aluminum Filter

The AMFCO HI Series Aluminum Filter is designed for easy cleaning and reuse, offering significant long-term savings and environmental benefits compared to disposable filters. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance, consistent airflow, and extends the life of both your filter and HVAC system.

Washing Procedure

1. Remove Filter: Turn off your HVAC system at the thermostat and main power switch, then carefully remove the dirty filter from its compartment.
2. Rinse Thoroughly: Using a garden hose or a strong stream of water from a utility sink faucet, rinse the filter from the clean air side first. This pushes contaminants out from the dirty side. Repeat rinsing from both sides until the water runs clear.
3. Apply Degreaser (Optional): For heavily soiled filters or those exposed to grease/oil mist (e.g., kitchen exhaust, industrial applications), apply a mild, non-corrosive degreaser or detergent. Allow it to soak for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly until all cleaning agents are removed.
4. Shake Off Excess Water: Gently shake the filter to remove excess water. Avoid aggressive shaking that could damage the frame or media.
5. Air Dry Completely: Place the filter in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely before reinstallation. Do not use heat (e.g., blow dryers, direct sunlight, oven) to dry the filter, as this can damage the media or warp the frame.
6. Reinstall: Once completely dry, reinstall the filter into your HVAC system, ensuring the airflow arrow points in the correct direction. Restore power to your system.

What NOT To Do During Cleaning

• Do NOT use harsh chemicals: Avoid strong acids, alkalis, bleach, or abrasive cleaners that can corrode the aluminum frame and media, compromising filter integrity.
• Do NOT use high-pressure washers: Excessive water pressure can damage the delicate aluminum screen wire media, distort the frame, or dislodge filter layers.
• Do NOT bend or distort the frame: Handle the filter carefully to maintain its structural integrity and ensure a proper, airtight fit in your HVAC system.
• Do NOT reinstall wet: A wet filter can promote mold and mildew growth, restrict airflow, and potentially damage your HVAC system components.
• Do NOT use heat to dry: Air drying is essential to prevent warping, melting, or other damage to the filter components that can occur with artificial heat.

Cleaning Frequency Guide

• Residential Use: Typically every 1–3 months, depending on factors such as household activity, presence of pets, number of occupants, and local air quality.
• Light Commercial Use: Generally every 1–2 months, or as indicated by system performance, pressure drop readings, or visual inspection of filter loading.
• Industrial/High-Particulate Environments: May require weekly or bi-weekly cleaning, or more frequently based on the specific contaminant load and operational demands.
• Coolant Mist Applications: Clean as needed, often weekly, to prevent buildup of oils and maintain optimal efficiency and airflow in industrial settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an AMFCO HI Series Aluminum Filter?

The AMFCO HI Series Aluminum Filter is a durable, washable impingement-type panel filter made from multiple layers of corrugated aluminum screen wire. It is designed to capture airborne particulate and coolant mist in residential, commercial, and industrial HVAC systems, offering a reusable and cost-effective alternative to disposable filters while being proudly Made in USA.

What is the difference between actual and nominal dimensions for this filter?

This specific product, the 17-1/2 × 23 × 7/8 Exact Aluminum Filter, is sold by its precise actual dimensions: 17.5 inches in length, 23 inches in width, and 0.875 inches (7/8 inch) in depth. Unlike filters that use rounded “nominal” sizes, this filter provides an exact fit, which is crucial for maintaining system efficiency and preventing air bypass around the filter.

Does the filter have a specific installation direction?

Yes, all AMFCO HI Series Aluminum Filters have an airflow arrow clearly printed on the frame. This arrow must always point in the direction of the airflow, which is typically towards the furnace, air handler, or cooling coil. Incorrect orientation can significantly reduce filtration efficiency and potentially strain your HVAC system.

How should I clean my washable aluminum filter?

To clean, rinse the filter thoroughly with a garden hose or strong faucet stream, starting from the clean air side to push contaminants out. For heavy grease, a mild, non-corrosive degreaser can be used. After rinsing until the water runs clear, shake off excess water and allow the filter to air dry completely before reinstallation. Do not use heat to dry.

How often should I clean this filter?

Cleaning frequency depends on the application and environment. For residential use, every 1–3 months is typical. Commercial and industrial settings, especially those with high particulate or mist, may require cleaning every 1–2 months, or even weekly. Regular visual inspection will help determine the optimal cleaning schedule.

What is the maximum operating temperature for this filter?

The AMFCO HI Series Aluminum Filter is designed to withstand continuous operating temperatures up to 275°F (135°C). This makes it suitable for a wide range of HVAC and industrial applications where moderate heat is present without compromising filter integrity or performance.

What are the best applications for this type of aluminum filter?

This filter excels in applications requiring durable, washable filtration, such as commercial HVAC systems, industrial ventilation, outdoor air intake, rooftop economizer hoods, and as a pre-filter for electronic air cleaners. Its robust construction and ability to capture coolant mist also make it ideal for certain industrial processes.

Are custom sizes available for AMFCO HI Series Aluminum Filters?

While this product is a standard exact size, American Metal Filter Company (AMFCO) does offer custom sizing for many of its filter series to meet unique system requirements. Please contact us directly with your specific dimension requirements to inquire about custom-made aluminum filters and their availability.