20x25x1 Nominal Economizer Washable Air Filter

Description

Product Overview

The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 is a professional-grade, permanent filtration solution specifically designed for Trane commercial economizer systems and rooftop units requiring 20x25x1 filtration. This washable aluminum mesh filter provides high-efficiency pre-filtration for economizer cooling loops, outdoor air intakes, and makeup air applications in commercial HVAC systems. Its 3-ply corrugated aluminum mesh construction captures large airborne particulates, protecting expensive secondary HEPA filters and sensitive system components while maintaining the high-volume airflow required for optimal economizer performance.

Economizer System Optimization: This model is precision-engineered for Trane economizer applications where outdoor air is used for free cooling. It matches the exact physical requirements (actual size 19.75″ x 24.75″ x 0.875″), ensuring a precise, rattle-free fit in standard economizer filter tracks. Proper fitment is critical to eliminate air bypass, which can introduce unfiltered outdoor contaminants and compromise indoor air quality in Trane commercial units utilizing economizer cooling cycles.

Permanent Washable Design: Unlike disposable filters that require monthly replacement at $22-42 per unit ($264-504 annually), the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 washable design provides 5-10 years of continuous service. Simple water-based cleaning every 30-90 days eliminates recurring purchase costs while reducing landfill waste. The three integrated corner drain holes ensure complete moisture removal after each wash cycle, maintaining optimal filtration performance throughout the filter’s service life in demanding economizer applications exposed to outdoor air contaminants.

This filter excels in commercial applications including multi-family housing, retail spaces, office complexes, hospitals, and light industrial facilities utilizing Trane economizer systems. The 275°F continuous temperature rating makes it ideal for rooftop units handling outdoor fresh air intake, where extreme ambient conditions would rapidly degrade standard filters. Manufactured in the USA by American Metal Filter Company using premium domestic aluminum, the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 combines economizer compatibility with superior washable performance and environmental responsibility.

Industrial & Commercial Applications

Economizer Systems & Free Cooling Applications

Trane economizer systems utilize outdoor air for free cooling when ambient temperatures permit, significantly reducing energy consumption in commercial buildings. The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 is specifically designed for these economizer applications, capturing outdoor contaminants including pollen, dust, leaves, insects, and airborne debris before they enter the building’s air distribution system. The permanent aluminum construction withstands continuous exposure to outdoor air conditions including humidity, temperature extremes, and seasonal contaminants that would rapidly degrade disposable filters. Facility managers appreciate the 5-10 year service life that eliminates recurring filter procurement for economizer sections, while the washable design allows quick cleaning during seasonal pollen events or dust storms without waiting for replacement filter delivery.

Multi-Family Housing & Apartment Complexes

Trane rooftop units with economizer systems are widely deployed in multi-family housing where outdoor air is used for ventilation and free cooling. The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 compatible filter provides 5-10 year service life in these applications, dramatically reducing maintenance labor costs compared to monthly disposable filter replacement across multiple rooftop units. The washable design eliminates recurring filter purchase expenses and waste disposal fees, while the 275°F rating handles rooftop equipment exposed to extreme summer temperatures. Property managers benefit from extended cleaning intervals (30-90 days) that reduce maintenance crew workload while protecting indoor air quality from outdoor contaminants during economizer operation.

Retail Spaces & Shopping Centers

Commercial retail facilities with Trane economizer systems require reliable outdoor air filtration to maintain customer comfort and protect merchandise from dust accumulation during free cooling cycles. The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1’s 43% dust arrestance captures outdoor particulates before they reach expensive secondary filtration, extending the life of MERV 8-11 pleated filters and reducing total filtration costs. The permanent aluminum construction withstands the continuous operation typical of retail spaces with extended hours (12-16 hours daily), while the washable design allows cleaning during off-hours without inventory costs or supply chain delays during peak economizer usage seasons.

Office Buildings & Corporate Facilities

Modern office buildings with Trane commercial HVAC economizer systems benefit from the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1’s precision compatibility and washable performance. The filter’s low initial pressure drop (0.08-0.12″ w.g.) minimizes energy consumption while protecting downstream coils and components from outdoor particulates during economizer cycles. Office facility managers appreciate the 5-10 year service life that eliminates recurring budgeting for economizer filter replacements, while the UL 900 Class 1 certification ensures compliance with commercial building codes for fire safety. The washable design allows immediate response to seasonal pollen or outdoor air quality events without waiting for replacement filter procurement.

Healthcare & Educational Facilities

Hospitals, medical centers, and educational institutions with Trane economizer systems require reliable outdoor air filtration to protect sensitive populations and expensive diagnostic equipment. The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1’s permanent aluminum construction eliminates concerns about filter media shedding that can occur with degraded disposable filters exposed to outdoor conditions. The washable design allows facility staff to maintain consistent economizer filtration performance without supply chain dependencies—critical for facilities requiring continuous outdoor air ventilation. The 20x25x1 size is common in Trane economizer systems serving buildings where outdoor air quality directly impacts occupant health and productivity.

Light Industrial & Manufacturing Facilities

Light industrial environments with Trane economizer systems face elevated particulate loading from both outdoor air and manufacturing processes. The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1’s 3-ply aluminum mesh construction captures outdoor contaminants, significantly extending the life of expensive final-stage filters. The 81 g/sq ft dust holding capacity provides 30-90 day cleaning intervals even with outdoor air exposure, while the washable design allows on-site cleaning without production interruption. The 275°F rating handles industrial process heat and outdoor temperature extremes that would rapidly degrade disposable filters in rooftop economizer applications.

Construction Features

3-Ply Aluminum Mesh Media

The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 features 3 layers of corrugated aluminum mesh arranged in a criss-cross pattern, providing effective pre-filtration with 43% dust arrestance efficiency. The multi-layer design captures outdoor airborne particulates including pollen, dust, leaves, and insects while maintaining low resistance to airflow—essential for economizer systems where excessive pressure drop reduces free cooling efficiency and increases energy consumption. Each ply progressively filters outdoor air as it moves through the media depth, achieving efficient particle capture while preserving economizer airflow performance. The corrugated pattern increases surface area compared to flat mesh, extending the interval between cleaning cycles and providing 81 g/sq ft dust holding capacity even with outdoor air exposure.

Heavy-Duty .030″ Aluminum Frame

Constructed from .030″ extruded aluminum alloy, the frame provides structural rigidity essential for economizer applications exposed to outdoor conditions and high-velocity airflow. The aluminum construction resists corrosion from outdoor moisture, humidity, and environmental exposure common in economizer systems, maintaining dimensional stability throughout the filter’s 5-10 year service life. The frame supports high-volume economizer airflow without flexing or warping, even at operating temperatures up to 275°F. Precision-mitered corners with aluminum rivets ensure the frame maintains the exact 19.75″ x 24.75″ x 0.875″ dimensions required for proper fit in standard economizer filter tracks.

Integrated Corner Drain System

Three strategically placed corner drain holes ensure complete water removal after cleaning cycles—particularly important for economizer filters exposed to outdoor moisture and weather conditions. The drainage system accelerates drying time from 5-7 hours to 2-4 hours, preventing moisture retention that could reduce filtration efficiency or promote microbial growth in the media. Proper drainage is essential for maintaining the filter’s washable performance over hundreds of cleaning cycles in economizer applications where outdoor humidity and moisture exposure are common. The drain holes are positioned to allow gravity drainage when the filter is oriented vertically or horizontally during the drying process.

UL 900 Class 1 Fire Safety Certification

The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 meets UL 900 Class 1 fire safety standards for commercial and industrial buildings. This certification ensures the filter can withstand continuous operation at temperatures up to 275°F (135°C) without compromising structural integrity or creating fire hazards—critical for rooftop economizer systems exposed to extreme outdoor temperatures. The all-aluminum construction provides non-combustible performance critical for commercial HVAC safety compliance—unlike filters with plastic components or organic materials that can melt, burn, or release toxic fumes at elevated temperatures. UL 900 Class 1 certification is often required by commercial building codes, insurance policies, and occupancy permits.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Cleaning Frequency Guidelines

The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 requires cleaning every 30 to 90 days depending on outdoor air quality and particulate loading conditions. Economizer applications may require more frequent cleaning during high pollen seasons (spring/fall) or in areas with elevated outdoor dust levels. Light-duty applications (office buildings, low-occupancy facilities) in clean air environments typically achieve 90-day intervals, while moderate loading (retail spaces, multi-family housing) requires 45-60 day cleaning. Heavy-duty environments (light industrial, high-traffic facilities) or areas with poor outdoor air quality may require monthly cleaning. Monitor differential pressure across the filter using a manometer—clean when pressure drop reaches 0.50″ w.g. to maintain economizer efficiency and airflow performance.

Water-Based Cleaning Method

To clean the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1, remove the filter from the economizer section and spray with water using a standard garden hose or pressure washer (up to 1500 PSI maximum). Direct water flow from the clean side (downstream) toward the dirty side (upstream) to push accumulated outdoor particulates out of the media rather than forcing them deeper into the mesh layers. For light to moderate loading, water alone is sufficient. For heavy pollen accumulation, tree sap, or sticky outdoor residue, apply an aluminum-safe detergent (pH 7-9 neutral cleaners work best), allow 10-15 minutes soak time, then rinse thoroughly with clean water until runoff is clear. Avoid harsh alkaline cleaners (pH >10) or acidic cleaners (pH <6) that can corrode aluminum over time.

Drying Requirements

After rinsing, shake the filter to remove excess water and orient vertically or at a 45-degree angle to allow the three corner drain holes to release trapped moisture. Air dry the filter completely before reinstallation—typically 2-4 hours in ambient conditions, or accelerate drying with compressed air (30-40 PSI) blown through the media from the clean side. Complete drying is critical for economizer filters: moisture retained in the media reduces dust holding capacity on the next service cycle and can promote aluminum oxidation or microbial growth. In commercial settings, maintain a spare HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 filter to allow one to remain in service while the other is being cleaned and dried, eliminating economizer downtime during maintenance.

Inspection During Maintenance

During each cleaning cycle, inspect the filter for damage from outdoor exposure: check that all 3 media plies remain intact without tears or punctures, verify the aluminum frame maintains dimensional accuracy (19.75″ x 24.75″ x 0.875″), and examine corner rivets for security. The filter should maintain its original dimensions and structural integrity throughout hundreds of wash cycles over 5-10 years, even with continuous outdoor air exposure. If inspection reveals torn media, bent frames, or loose rivets from weather exposure or debris impact, the filter should be repaired or replaced. Minor aluminum oxidation (white powdery deposits) is normal and does not affect performance—it can be removed with a soft brush if desired, but is not necessary for continued operation.

Installation

Pre-Installation Verification

Before installing the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1, verify your Trane economizer system accepts standard 20x25x1 filtration by checking the equipment service manual or measuring the existing filter track opening. The filter track should measure approximately 19-7/8″ to 20″ wide x 24-7/8″ to 25″ high x 7/8″ to 1″ deep to accommodate the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1’s actual dimensions of 19.75″ x 24.75″ x 0.875″. If you’re replacing an existing economizer filter, the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 will fit precisely in standard 20x25x1 filter tracks. Do not force-fit the filter into undersized tracks, as this can bend the frame and compromise filtration efficiency.

Filter Orientation & Installation

Slide the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 into the economizer filter track with the media plies perpendicular to the airflow direction. Trane economizer sections typically have filter tracks with retention clips or spring-loaded tracks—ensure the filter seats completely with the frame edges flush against the track stops. The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 can be installed in any orientation (horizontal, vertical, or angled) as the rigid aluminum construction prevents media sagging regardless of position. Some economizer sections may have an airflow direction indicator—if present, install the filter so air flows from the outdoor side (dirty) to the indoor side (clean) as marked. If no indicator is present, install with outdoor air entering the filter first.

Initial System Startup

After installation, start the HVAC system in economizer mode and verify proper airflow by checking supply register output and listening for abnormal sounds that might indicate filter obstruction or improper seating. Monitor initial differential pressure across the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1—expect 0.08-0.12″ w.g. for a clean filter at typical economizer face velocities (300-500 FPM). If pressure drop exceeds 0.20″ w.g. on a new filter, verify the filter is not installed backwards and check for airflow obstructions. During the first week of operation, recheck differential pressure daily to establish baseline performance for your specific economizer system and outdoor air quality conditions. This baseline helps optimize future cleaning schedules.

Economizer Filter Track Compatibility Notes

The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 is designed for standard 20x25x1 economizer filter tracks commonly found in Trane commercial rooftop units and air handlers. If your economizer system has been modified or if you’re uncertain about filter track dimensions, measure the existing opening before ordering. The filter’s actual dimensions (19.75″ x 24.75″ x 0.875″) must fit with approximately 1/16″ to 1/8″ clearance on all sides for proper installation and removal. Filter tracks that are significantly oversized (>1/4″ clearance) may allow bypass airflow around the filter edges, introducing unfiltered outdoor air and reducing indoor air quality during economizer operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this compatible with Trane economizer systems?

Yes. The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 is precision-manufactured for standard 20x25x1 economizer filter tracks (actual dimensions 19.75″ x 24.75″ x 0.875″) commonly found in Trane commercial rooftop units and air handlers. The filter is specifically designed for economizer applications handling outdoor air, with construction optimized to withstand continuous outdoor air exposure, temperature extremes, and seasonal contaminants typical of economizer operation.

What is the filtration efficiency?

This 3-ply corrugated aluminum mesh filter provides approximately 43% average dust arrestance per ASHRAE 52.1 testing standards, making it an ideal pre-filter for commercial economizer systems handling outdoor air. The efficiency is optimized to capture large outdoor airborne particulates (pollen, dust, leaves, insects, debris) while maintaining low pressure drop essential for energy-efficient economizer operation and free cooling cycles.

How do I clean this filter?

Remove the filter from the economizer section and spray with water using a garden hose or pressure washer (up to 1500 PSI maximum pressure). For light to moderate loading, water alone is sufficient. For heavy pollen accumulation or sticky outdoor residue, use an aluminum-safe neutral pH detergent (7-9), allow 10-15 minutes soak time, then rinse thoroughly until runoff is clear. Allow the filter to air dry completely (2-4 hours) before reinstallation, using the three corner drain holes to release trapped moisture.

Is it UL rated for commercial use?

Yes, the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 is UL 900 Class 1 rated, which means it meets strict fire safety standards for commercial and industrial buildings. This certification ensures the filter can withstand continuous operation at temperatures up to 275°F (135°C) without compromising structural integrity or creating fire hazards—critical for rooftop economizer applications exposed to extreme outdoor temperatures. UL 900 Class 1 certification is often required by commercial building codes and insurance policies.

What is the maximum operating temperature?

The all-aluminum construction allows for continuous operation in temperatures up to 275°F (135°C). This makes the filter ideal for rooftop economizer systems exposed to extreme outdoor ambient conditions, where summer heat on rooftop equipment and outdoor air intake would rapidly degrade standard filters with plastic or paper components. The 275°F rating significantly exceeds the capability of disposable filters that degrade rapidly at elevated temperatures common in rooftop applications.

Does it have drainage holes for cleaning?

Yes, the filter features three strategically placed corner drain holes to ensure complete moisture removal after washing—particularly important for economizer filters exposed to outdoor moisture, humidity, and weather conditions. The drainage system reduces drying time from 5-7 hours to 2-4 hours, preventing water retention that could reduce filtration efficiency or promote microbial growth in the media. The drain holes work regardless of filter orientation during the drying process.

Is this a permanent filter?

Yes, the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 is a permanent metal mesh filter designed to be washed and reused rather than discarded. With proper maintenance (cleaning every 30-90 days), the filter provides 5 to 10 years of continuous service—potentially hundreds of wash cycles. This eliminates the recurring cost of disposable filter replacement ($264-504 annually) and reduces environmental waste, while providing consistent economizer filtration performance throughout its service life even with continuous outdoor air exposure.

Where is this filter manufactured?

This filter is 100% manufactured in the United States by American Metal Filter Company (AMFCO) using premium domestic aluminum. Manufacturing in the USA ensures consistent quality control, supports domestic jobs, and provides rapid production turnaround for replacement orders. AMFCO has specialized in metal mesh filters since 1985, with expertise in commercial HVAC filters for economizer systems and outdoor air applications.

Why is the actual size smaller than 20x25x1?

Industry standard nominal sizing (20x25x1) represents the filter track opening dimensions, while actual filter dimensions are slightly smaller to allow proper fit. The actual dimensions of 19.75″ x 24.75″ x 0.875″ provide approximately 1/8″ clearance on each side for easy installation and removal from the filter track. This sizing convention is standard across the HVAC industry—filters labeled 20x25x1 universally have actual dimensions approximately 1/4″ to 1/2″ smaller on length and width to fit standard economizer filter tracks.

Can this handle outdoor air exposure?

Yes, the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 is specifically designed for economizer applications involving continuous outdoor air exposure. The all-aluminum construction resists corrosion from outdoor moisture and humidity, while the 275°F rating handles extreme outdoor temperature conditions. The 3-ply mesh construction captures outdoor contaminants including pollen, dust, leaves, and insects without degradation from weather exposure. The washable design allows easy cleaning during seasonal pollen events or dust storms, maintaining optimal economizer performance without waiting for replacement filter delivery.

Why Choose the HIA102025 Economizer Washable Filter?

The HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 provides precision compatibility for Trane economizer systems and commercial HVAC applications requiring 20x25x1 outdoor air filtration. With washable aluminum construction providing 5-10 years of service life, UL 900 Class 1 certification for 275°F continuous operation, and 43% dust arrestance efficiency, this filter eliminates recurring replacement costs while ensuring reliable performance in economizer systems handling outdoor air for free cooling and ventilation.

The precision-engineered 19.75″ x 24.75″ x 0.875″ dimensions guarantee proper fit in standard economizer filter tracks, eliminating air bypass that introduces unfiltered outdoor contaminants and compromises indoor air quality. Unlike disposable filters requiring monthly replacement at $22-42 per unit ($264-504 annually), the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1’s washable design provides hundreds of cleaning cycles over 5-10 years, saving $1,320-2,520 in recurring filter costs while reducing landfill waste. Simple water-based cleaning every 30-90 days maintains optimal performance without inventory management or supply chain dependencies during peak economizer usage seasons.

Made in the USA by American Metal Filter Company using premium domestic aluminum, the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 combines industrial durability with environmental responsibility. The 3-ply corrugated aluminum mesh captures outdoor particulates while maintaining low pressure drop essential for energy-efficient economizer operation, protecting expensive secondary filters and sensitive system components. Three integrated corner drain holes ensure complete moisture removal after cleaning—critical for filters exposed to outdoor humidity and weather conditions. The all-aluminum construction withstands continuous outdoor air exposure without degradation from moisture, temperature extremes, or seasonal contaminants.

Whether you’re managing multi-family housing, retail spaces, office buildings, healthcare facilities, or light industrial operations with Trane economizer systems, the HIA102025-1-FLR00537-1 delivers economizer compatibility, washable convenience, and long-term cost savings. Eliminate monthly filter replacements, reduce maintenance labor, and protect your economizer system with a permanent filtration solution designed specifically for outdoor air applications requiring reliable performance in demanding environmental conditions.

Authoritative Resources

For detailed technical support, equipment specifications, installation manuals, and Trane commercial HVAC product information, we recommend visiting the official Trane Commercial HVAC website. This authoritative resource provides comprehensive documentation for Trane air handlers, rooftop units, economizer systems, and commercial HVAC equipment to help verify filter compatibility, access technical specifications, and contact manufacturer support for equipment-specific questions.