Custom Mesh Filter, Aluminum, 1/2 Inch Thick

Description

Product Overview

The HIAS050 Custom 1/2″ Washable Aluminum Mesh Air Filter represents the ideal solution for HVAC systems requiring ultra-slim profile filtration with custom dimensions that standard off-the-shelf filters cannot accommodate. This made-to-order 1/2″ exact depth aluminum mesh filter delivers professional-grade performance for commercial and residential HVAC systems with discontinued or non-standard filter sizes, providing facility managers and homeowners with a permanent filtration solution that eliminates the frustration of finding replacement filters for older or specialty equipment. Built to UL 900 Class 1 standards with a continuous temperature rating of 275°F, this custom aluminum mesh filter ensures reliable pre-filtration performance tailored precisely to your unique HVAC system requirements.

Engineered with a precision-formed .025-inch thick aluminum alloy frame and specialized 4-ply corrugated criss-cross aluminum screen wire media, the HIAS050 delivers 43% dust arrestance efficiency in an ultra-compact 1/2″ exact depth profile. This slim configuration makes it ideal for tight installation spaces, shallow filter tracks, and HVAC equipment designed for low-profile filtration where standard 1-inch filters create clearance issues. The 4-ply construction provides exceptional dust-holding capacity of 68 grams per square foot while maintaining the low airflow resistance critical for energy-efficient system operation. Custom-manufactured to your exact specifications in the USA, each filter ships ready to install with no modifications required.

Unlike generic disposable filters that require constant searching for compatible replacements, this custom washable aluminum mesh filter delivers 5-10 years of continuous service with proper maintenance protocols. The all-aluminum construction—including precision-mitered corners secured with aluminum pop rivets and 24-gauge face grids—ensures structural integrity through repeated cleaning cycles using standard water-based methods. Three strategically placed corner drain holes facilitate complete water removal after washing, preventing moisture retention and accelerating return-to-service time. Once you’ve placed your initial custom order, reordering identical replacements is effortless through your online account, ensuring you’ll never struggle to find the right filter size again.

Property owners, facility managers, and HVAC contractors working with older equipment, European-manufactured systems, or specialty installations rely on custom washable aluminum filters to solve filtration challenges that standard sizes cannot address. Whether you’re maintaining vintage HVAC equipment, supporting discontinued commercial units, or servicing non-standard residential installations, the HIAS050 provides a permanent solution manufactured to your exact dimensional requirements. With low initial airflow resistance and the ability to maintain peak performance through repeated cleaning cycles, this custom washable mesh filter delivers measurable ROI through eliminated filter replacement costs, reduced maintenance labor, and the peace of mind that comes from having a reliable long-term filtration solution precisely matched to your system.

Industrial & Specialized Applications

The HIAS050 Custom 1/2″ Washable Aluminum Mesh Filter solves critical filtration challenges across diverse applications where standard off-the-shelf filter sizes cannot accommodate unique HVAC equipment requirements. From discontinued residential units to specialty commercial installations, this made-to-order solution ensures reliable pre-filtration regardless of your system’s dimensional specifications.

Discontinued & Legacy HVAC Equipment

Property owners maintaining older HVAC systems face constant frustration when original equipment manufacturers discontinue filter production or when legacy units use non-standard dimensions that modern filters cannot match. The HIAS050 custom aluminum filter eliminates this challenge by manufacturing exact replacements for any discontinued filter size, ensuring your older but perfectly functional HVAC equipment continues delivering reliable performance for years to come. Apartment building owners with 20-30 year old rooftop units, facility managers supporting vintage commercial systems, and homeowners preserving historic property HVAC installations depend on custom washable filters to maintain equipment that would otherwise require expensive replacement simply due to filter unavailability. The permanent washable construction means once you’ve placed your initial custom order, you’ll never search for compatible filters again—simply reorder identical replacements through your online account whenever cleaning becomes impractical or when establishing backup inventory.

European & International Equipment

HVAC systems manufactured for European, Asian, or other international markets often utilize metric dimensions or regional sizing standards incompatible with North American filter inventory. Commercial facilities operating European-manufactured chillers, precision cooling systems, or specialty ventilation equipment struggle with filter procurement when standard American sizes create gaps, require adapter frames, or simply don’t fit at all. The HIAS050 custom solution bridges this gap by manufacturing filters to exact millimeter specifications, ensuring perfect fit regardless of your equipment’s country of origin. Data centers with European server room cooling systems, pharmaceutical facilities using German or Swiss manufacturing equipment, and commercial kitchens equipped with Italian ventilation systems rely on custom aluminum filters to maintain filtration performance without compromising system integrity through improvised filter solutions.

Shallow Filter Track Installations

Some HVAC installations feature exceptionally shallow filter tracks where even standard 1-inch nominal filters (actual 7/8″ depth) create clearance issues with ductwork, access panels, or adjacent equipment. The HIAS050’s exact 1/2-inch depth profile solves these tight-space challenges while maintaining effective pre-filtration performance through its optimized 4-ply media construction. Compact rooftop units with limited service clearance, wall-mounted fan coil units in residential high-rises, and under-floor air distribution systems in raised-floor commercial spaces benefit from ultra-slim filtration that standard products cannot provide. HVAC contractors servicing these installations appreciate having a permanent washable solution that eliminates the ongoing challenge of sourcing compatible slim-profile filters for clients with space-constrained equipment.

Specialty Residential & Light Commercial

Custom home construction, architectural renovations, and specialty light commercial installations often incorporate HVAC equipment with non-standard filter dimensions designed to match unique architectural requirements or space constraints. Wine cellar climate control systems, indoor pool dehumidification equipment, home theater ventilation, and custom residential installations frequently require filter sizes unavailable through standard distribution channels. The HIAS050 provides homeowners and contractors with a professional-grade permanent solution manufactured to exact specifications, eliminating the frustration of makeshift filter solutions or expensive custom fabrication from local sheet metal shops. Once installed, the washable aluminum construction ensures 5-10 years of reliable service with simple water-based cleaning, providing long-term filtration performance for specialty applications where filter availability has historically been problematic.

Construction Features

The HIAS050 Custom 1/2″ Washable Aluminum Mesh Filter is engineered with precision manufacturing techniques that ensure every custom-sized unit meets the same rigorous quality standards as our stock products. UL 900 Class 1 certification validates continuous operation capability at 275°F, while Made in USA construction guarantees dimensional accuracy and structural integrity throughout the filter’s 5-10 year service life.

Lightweight Aluminum Frame Construction

The foundation of this custom filter begins with a precision-formed .025-inch thick aluminum alloy frame engineered for optimal strength-to-weight ratio in ultra-slim applications. This lighter-gauge construction compared to standard 1-inch filters (.030″ thickness) reduces overall weight while maintaining sufficient structural rigidity for the exact 1/2-inch depth profile. The aluminum alloy composition delivers excellent corrosion resistance in humid environments while the lighter frame weight simplifies handling during installation and maintenance. Professional-grade mitered corners secured with aluminum pop rivets ensure the frame maintains perfect dimensional accuracy to your custom specifications throughout repeated cleaning cycles, preventing bypass air leakage that would compromise filtration efficiency. Each custom frame is manufactured to your exact height and width requirements with ±1/8″ tolerance, ensuring precise fit without gaps or binding in your HVAC system’s filter tracks.

Optimized 4-Ply Media Pack

The filtration media consists of four layers of corrugated aluminum screen wire arranged in a precision criss-cross weave pattern specifically engineered for 1/2-inch depth applications. This 4-ply configuration achieves 43% dust arrestance efficiency while maintaining ultra-low airflow resistance of just 0.002″ w.g. at rated airflow—significantly lower than standard 1-inch filters with 5-ply media. Each layer features expanded aluminum mesh construction with carefully engineered strand spacing that captures large particulates through multiple interception stages. The corrugated structure provides increased surface area within the compact 1/2-inch depth while the criss-cross weave pattern ensures uniform particle distribution across the entire media pack. This engineering approach delivers effective pre-filtration performance with minimal pressure drop, protecting downstream HVAC components without overburdening system blowers designed for low-resistance filtration.

Corner Drain System

Three strategically positioned corner drain holes facilitate rapid water evacuation following cleaning operations, with typical air-drying times of 30-60 minutes under normal ambient conditions. The open aluminum mesh construction and lightweight frame design enable complete water drainage without trapped moisture in corner joints or frame channels. This drainage system prevents water pooling that could lead to odor development or corrosion while ensuring the filter returns to service quickly after washing. The aluminum construction naturally resists moisture-related degradation, maintaining structural integrity and filtration performance through repeated wet-dry cycles throughout the filter’s multi-year service life.

24-Gauge Face Grid Protection

Both upstream and downstream faces incorporate 24-gauge aluminum protective grids that shield the 4-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 media structure while maintaining the ultra-low pressure drop characteristic of 1/2-inch depth filtration. The grid construction provides impact resistance against accidental contact during filter changeouts while adding minimal weight to the overall assembly. This protective layer ensures the custom-manufactured filter maintains its structural integrity and filtration performance throughout thousands of operational hours and repeated cleaning cycles.

Maintenance & Cleaning Protocol

The HIAS050 Custom 1/2″ Washable Aluminum Mesh Filter requires minimal maintenance while delivering 5-10 years of reliable service. Unlike disposable filters that create ongoing frustration finding compatible replacements for custom sizes, this industrial-grade aluminum filter supports repeated cleaning cycles using simple water-based methods without expensive cleaning agents or replacement costs.

Cleaning Methods

Four effective cleaning methods accommodate different facility capabilities and contamination levels. Garden hose cleaning provides the simplest approach, using high-pressure nozzle settings to spray both sides of the 4-ply media until water runs clear—typically sufficient for most residential and light commercial applications. Sink or tub soaking works well for moderate contamination, submerging the lightweight aluminum filter in warm soapy water for 15-30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Commercial dishwashers offer hands-free cleaning for facilities with industrial dishwashing equipment, though the lightweight .025″ frame requires careful placement to prevent distortion. Pressure washing delivers fast results for heavier contamination, using 800-1200 PSI with warm water (lower pressure than standard filters due to lighter frame gauge). The aluminum construction withstands repeated washing without degradation, maintaining structural integrity throughout the filter’s 5-10 year service life while operating continuously at temperatures up to 275°F.

Recommended Cleaning Frequency

Cleaning intervals depend on operating environment and particulate loading rates. Light dust environments such as residential applications or clean commercial spaces require quarterly cleaning every three months. Moderate commercial applications including standard office buildings and retail spaces benefit from monthly cleaning schedules. High-particulate environments with continuous dust generation may need bi-weekly to monthly cleaning to maintain optimal system performance. Visual inspection provides the most reliable cleaning indicator—schedule cleaning when the 4-ply aluminum screen wire media appears visibly loaded with dust or when system airflow seems reduced. The ultra-low initial pressure drop (0.002″ w.g.) means even slight dust accumulation creates noticeable performance change, making visual inspection an effective maintenance trigger.

Handling Considerations

The lightweight .025″ aluminum frame construction requires slightly more careful handling than standard 1-inch filters with thicker .030″ frames. Avoid excessive bending or twisting forces during removal, cleaning, and reinstallation that could distort the frame geometry. Support the filter along its edges when handling larger custom sizes to prevent frame flexing. During pressure washing, use moderate pressure settings (800-1200 PSI) rather than industrial-grade high-pressure equipment that could deform the lightweight frame. Despite requiring careful handling, the properly maintained filter delivers full 5-10 year service life with consistent filtration performance when cleaning and handling protocols follow these basic guidelines.

Installation

Installing the HIAS050 Custom 1/2″ Washable Aluminum Mesh Filter follows the same straightforward procedures as standard filters, with additional attention to proper orientation and secure seating to ensure optimal performance from your custom-manufactured filtration solution.

Pre-Installation Verification

Before installing your custom filter, verify the dimensions match your original specifications and that your HVAC system is completely shut down with power disconnected. Inspect the filter housing interior for accumulated dust, debris, or damage that could compromise the seal. The custom-manufactured filter should fit your housing precisely with minimal clearance—if excessive gaps exist, verify you’re installing in the correct location and orientation. Check the condition of existing gaskets or sealing surfaces, replacing worn gaskets before installing your new permanent filter. Clean the filter housing interior thoroughly with a vacuum or damp cloth to ensure optimal sealing surfaces. Locate the airflow direction arrow marked on your new custom filter frame, ensuring you understand proper orientation before installation.

Installation Steps

With the HVAC system powered off and locked out, open the filter access door or remove the access panel. Carefully remove any existing filter, noting its orientation and airflow direction. Inspect your new HIAS050 custom filter and locate the airflow direction arrow clearly marked on the aluminum frame. The lightweight construction makes handling easy, but support the filter along its edges to prevent frame flexing 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 but gently into place, ensuring all edges seat properly against the gasket or housing walls without forcing or bending the lightweight frame. Verify the custom dimensions create proper fit without excessive gaps around the perimeter. Secure the access door or panel, restore power, and restart system operation.

Post-Installation Verification

After system restart, listen carefully for any unusual sounds such as air whistling or rattling that might indicate improper seating. Verify proper airflow by checking that air velocity at supply registers matches expected performance levels. The ultra-low pressure drop of the 1/2″ filter means system performance should match or exceed previous levels with comparable or better filtration. Document the installation date in your maintenance records and note your custom filter’s exact dimensions for future reordering through your online account. The 43% dust arrestance efficiency begins immediately protecting downstream HVAC components from large particulates and debris. Establish a regular inspection schedule based on your specific environmental conditions to monitor dust accumulation and maintain optimal system performance throughout the filter’s 5-10 year service life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I order a custom-sized filter?

Use our online custom filter configurator to specify your exact height and width dimensions. Measure your existing filter or filter housing carefully, accounting for the fact that filters are typically manufactured slightly undercut (smaller) than the housing opening to ensure proper fit. Our system guides you through the measurement process and confirms your specifications before manufacturing begins. Once your initial custom order is complete, reordering identical filters is effortless through your online account—simply reference your previous order without re-measuring or re-specifying dimensions.

What’s the difference between 1/2″ exact and 1″ nominal depth?

The HIAS050 features 1/2″ exact depth—meaning the filter measures precisely 1/2 inch thick. Standard 1″ nominal filters actually measure 7/8″ (not a full inch), with “nominal” indicating approximate sizing. The 1/2″ exact filter uses lighter .025″ aluminum frame construction and 4-ply media optimized for ultra-slim installations, while 1″ nominal filters use .030″ frames and 5-ply media for greater dust-holding capacity. Choose 1/2″ exact when you need the absolute thinnest profile for tight spaces or shallow filter tracks where standard 1″ nominal filters won’t fit properly.

Can this replace discontinued manufacturer filters?

Absolutely. The HIAS050 is specifically designed to provide direct OEM replacement capability for discontinued filters from any manufacturer. Simply measure your existing filter’s height, width, and depth, then specify those exact dimensions when ordering. Our precision manufacturing ensures your custom filter fits perfectly without modifications, adapter frames, or system changes. Once you’ve placed your initial order, you can reorder identical replacements anytime through your online account, eliminating the frustration of searching for discontinued filter sizes.

How long does custom manufacturing take?

Custom filter manufacturing typically requires 5-10 business days from order confirmation to shipment, though production schedules may vary based on current order volume. Rush production is available for critical applications requiring faster turnaround. We recommend ordering before your existing filter reaches end-of-service to ensure continuous filtration coverage. Once you receive your initial custom filter, consider ordering backup units to maintain in inventory, eliminating any future concerns about production lead times.

Is this filter washable and reusable?

Yes, the HIAS050 is designed for repeated washing and reuse throughout its 5-10 year service life. The 4-ply aluminum screen wire media and .025″ aluminum frame construction withstand repeated cleaning cycles using water-based methods without degradation. Clean using garden hose, sink soaking, dishwasher, or moderate-pressure washer (800-1200 PSI). The three corner drain holes ensure complete water removal after cleaning. Unlike disposable filters requiring constant replacement—especially frustrating for custom sizes—this washable solution provides decades of service with simple periodic cleaning.

What’s the temperature rating?

This filter is UL 900 Class 1 certified for continuous operation at 275°F, making it suitable for most commercial and residential 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, air handlers exposed to high ambient temperatures, and installations near heat-generating equipment.

Can I use this in residential applications?

Yes, the HIAS050 works excellently in residential applications, particularly for older homes with discontinued HVAC equipment, European-manufactured systems, or custom installations requiring non-standard filter dimensions. The ultra-slim 1/2″ profile fits compact residential units where space is limited, while the washable construction eliminates ongoing filter replacement costs and the frustration of finding compatible filters. Homeowners appreciate the permanent solution that provides 5-10 years of reliable service with simple water-based cleaning every few months.

What if I need filters in multiple custom sizes?

We can manufacture filters to any dimensional specifications, so properties with multiple HVAC systems requiring different custom sizes can order each size individually. Each custom size is saved in your online account for effortless reordering. Many facility managers and property owners maintain small inventories of each custom size to simplify maintenance scheduling and ensure filtration coverage during cleaning cycles. Volume pricing is available for orders of multiple units or multiple custom sizes.

Do you offer custom filters in other materials?

The 1/2″ exact depth configuration is available only in aluminum construction (HIA series). For custom filters in galvanized steel or stainless steel materials, consider our custom 1″ nominal (HIAS10), 2″ nominal (HIAS20), or 4″ nominal (HIAS40) depth options, which can be manufactured in HIG (galvanized) or HIS (stainless) specifications. The 1/2″ exact depth’s lighter .025″ aluminum frame construction is optimized specifically for ultra-slim aluminum applications where minimal weight and profile are critical requirements.

Why Choose the HIAS050 Custom 1/2″ Washable Aluminum Mesh Filter?

Choosing the HIAS050 Custom 1/2″ Washable Aluminum Mesh Filter eliminates the frustration and expense of searching for compatible replacement filters for HVAC systems with discontinued or non-standard dimensions. Whether you’re maintaining older equipment with obsolete filter sizes, supporting European-manufactured systems with metric dimensions, or servicing specialty installations that standard filters cannot accommodate, this made-to-order solution provides permanent filtration precisely matched to your unique requirements. The custom manufacturing process ensures perfect fit without adapter frames, system modifications, or improvised solutions that compromise filtration performance.

Built to the same rigorous quality standards as our stock products, this custom filter features precision-engineered 4-ply aluminum media construction and UL 900 Class 1 certification for reliable 275°F continuous operation. The ultra-slim 1/2″ exact depth profile solves tight-space challenges where even standard 1″ nominal filters create clearance problems, making it ideal for compact rooftop units, shallow filter tracks, and space-constrained installations. Made in USA with premium .025″ aluminum alloy framing and aluminum screen wire media, each custom filter is manufactured to your exact specifications with ±1/8″ tolerance, ensuring precise fit and optimal performance throughout its 5-10 year service life.

The permanent washable construction delivers exceptional long-term value compared to disposable alternatives—especially critical for custom sizes where finding compatible replacements creates ongoing frustration and expense. Once you’ve placed your initial custom order, reordering identical filters is effortless through your online account, eliminating the need to re-measure or re-specify dimensions for future purchases. The 43% dust arrestance efficiency protects downstream HVAC components while the ultra-low 0.002″ pressure drop maintains optimal system efficiency. Simple water-based cleaning every few months restores peak performance without expensive cleaning agents or professional services.

Facility managers, property owners, HVAC contractors, and homeowners choose the HIAS050 when standard filters cannot solve their filtration challenges. From maintaining vintage equipment to supporting specialty installations, this custom aluminum filter provides the permanent solution that eliminates filter procurement frustration while delivering professional-grade filtration performance. Invest in a custom-manufactured filter that fits your system perfectly, provides decades of reliable service, and ensures you’ll never struggle to find compatible replacements again. Order your custom HIAS050 today and experience the confidence that comes from having a permanent filtration solution precisely matched to your unique HVAC system requirements.