Mesh Filter Aluminum – Custom Sizes 1″ Thick | Washable Reusable | Fast Turnaround

Description

Product Overview

The HIAS10 Custom 1″ Washable Mesh Air Filter represents the ultimate solution for HVAC systems requiring standard-depth filtration with custom dimensions and material flexibility that off-the-shelf products cannot provide. This made-to-order 1″ nominal depth (7/8″ actual) washable mesh filter delivers professional-grade performance for commercial and residential HVAC systems with discontinued or non-standard filter sizes, offering your choice of aluminum, galvanized steel, or 304 stainless steel construction to match your specific environmental and temperature requirements. Built to UL 900 Class 1 standards with continuous temperature ratings from 275°F to 900°F depending on material selection, this custom mesh filter ensures reliable pre-filtration performance tailored precisely to your unique HVAC system needs.

Engineered with precision-formed .030-inch aluminum alloy, 24-gauge galvanized steel, or 24-gauge 304 stainless steel frames paired with specialized 5-ply corrugated criss-cross screen wire media, the HIAS10 delivers 43% dust arrestance efficiency in the industry-standard 1″ nominal depth profile. This versatile configuration accommodates the widest range of HVAC applications from residential systems to harsh industrial environments, providing optimal dust-holding capacity of 68 grams per square foot while maintaining low airflow resistance critical for energy-efficient operation. Custom-manufactured to your exact specifications in the USA, each filter ships ready to install with no modifications required, eliminating the endless frustration of searching for compatible filters for older or specialty equipment.

Unlike generic disposable filters requiring constant replacement—especially problematic for custom sizes with discontinued or non-standard dimensions—this custom washable mesh filter delivers 5-15 years of continuous service depending on material choice and maintenance protocols. The robust construction features precision-mitered corners secured with material-matched pop rivets and protective face grids ensuring 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 and selected your preferred material, 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, harsh industrial environments, or specialty installations rely on custom washable mesh filters to solve filtration challenges that standard sizes cannot address. Whether you’re maintaining vintage HVAC equipment with obsolete filter dimensions, supporting discontinued commercial units, servicing high-temperature industrial applications, or managing corrosive environments requiring stainless steel construction, the HIAS10 provides a permanent solution manufactured to your exact specifications. With material-specific temperature ratings up to 900°F for stainless steel, 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 and environment.

Industrial & Specialized Applications

The HIAS10 Custom 1″ Washable 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 harsh industrial environments requiring corrosion-resistant materials, this made-to-order solution with three material options ensures reliable pre-filtration regardless of your system’s dimensional specifications or operating conditions.

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 HIAS10 custom filter eliminates this challenge by manufacturing exact replacements in any dimension with your choice of material to match original equipment specifications. 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 with material choices from cost-effective aluminum to ultra-durable stainless steel 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 HIAS10 custom solution bridges this gap by manufacturing filters to exact millimeter specifications in your choice of construction material, 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 mesh filters to maintain filtration performance without compromising system integrity through improvised filter solutions.

High-Temperature Industrial Environments

Industrial facilities with HVAC systems exposed to elevated temperatures require filtration solutions that maintain structural integrity and performance where standard disposable filters fail or present fire hazards. The HIAS10’s stainless steel option (HIS) with 900°F continuous temperature rating serves foundries, glass manufacturing facilities, steel mills, commercial bakeries, and industrial drying operations where ambient temperatures regularly exceed aluminum or galvanized steel capabilities. The galvanized steel option (HIG) with 325°F rating provides cost-effective performance for moderately elevated temperature applications like commercial laundries, printing facilities, and food processing plants. Material selection flexibility ensures your custom filter matches both dimensional and environmental requirements precisely.

Corrosive & Moisture-Rich Environments

Applications involving corrosive chemicals, salt air, high humidity, or frequent washdown procedures demand filtration materials that resist oxidation and chemical degradation throughout years of service. The HIAS10’s 304 stainless steel option (HIS) provides superior corrosion resistance for coastal facilities exposed to salt air, chemical processing plants, wastewater treatment facilities, indoor pool dehumidification systems, commercial car washes, and food processing plants requiring frequent sanitization. The galvanized steel option (HIG) offers moderate corrosion protection for humid environments at lower cost than stainless construction. Aluminum (HIA) serves cost-effectively in dry, non-corrosive applications. This material flexibility allows precise matching of filter construction to your specific environmental challenges while maintaining custom dimensional specifications for discontinued or non-standard equipment.

Material Selection Guide

Choosing the optimal construction material for your HIAS10 Custom 1″ Washable Mesh Filter ensures maximum service life, performance, and value based on your specific operating environment and temperature requirements. All three materials provide identical 43% dust arrestance efficiency and 68 g/sq ft dust-holding capacity—the differences lie in temperature ratings, corrosion resistance, weight, and cost.

HIA: Aluminum Construction (Standard Grade)

The aluminum option features .030″ thick aluminum alloy frame construction with 5-ply aluminum screen wire media and 24-gauge aluminum face grids, providing the most cost-effective custom filter solution for standard commercial and residential HVAC applications. With a 275°F continuous temperature rating, aluminum construction serves the vast majority of HVAC environments while offering the lightest weight for easier handling during maintenance. Choose aluminum when your application involves normal indoor temperatures, dry or moderately humid environments without corrosive chemicals, and when initial cost efficiency is a priority. Aluminum filters excel in office buildings, retail spaces, standard residential HVAC, and light industrial applications where extreme temperatures or corrosive conditions are not factors.

HIG: Galvanized Steel Construction (Enhanced Durability)

The galvanized steel option features 24-gauge galvanized steel frame construction with 5-ply aluminum screen wire media and 30-gauge galvanized steel face grids, delivering enhanced corrosion resistance and elevated temperature capability at moderate cost increase over aluminum. With a 325°F continuous temperature rating, galvanized construction bridges the gap between standard aluminum and premium stainless steel applications. Choose galvanized steel when your application involves moderately elevated temperatures (275-325°F), humid environments requiring enhanced rust resistance, or industrial settings where aluminum might corrode but full stainless steel protection isn’t required. Galvanized filters serve commercial laundries, printing facilities, food processing plants, humid industrial environments, and applications where the 50°F higher temperature rating provides necessary safety margin over aluminum construction.

HIS: 304 Stainless Steel Construction (Premium Grade)

The 304 stainless steel option features 24-gauge 304 stainless steel frame construction with 5-ply stainless steel screen wire media and 30-gauge 304 stainless steel face grids, providing maximum corrosion resistance and exceptional 900°F continuous temperature rating for the most demanding applications. All-stainless construction—including frame, media, face grids, and rivets—ensures complete resistance to oxidation, chemical attack, and high-temperature degradation. Choose stainless steel when your application involves extreme temperatures approaching or exceeding 325°F, highly corrosive environments with chemical exposure or salt air, frequent washdown with harsh cleaning agents, or when maximum 10-15 year service life justifies premium initial investment. Stainless steel filters excel in foundries, commercial bakeries, coastal facilities, chemical plants, indoor pool systems, car washes, food processing requiring sanitization, and any application where filter failure could compromise safety or production.

Construction Features

The HIAS10 Custom 1″ Washable Mesh Filter is engineered with precision manufacturing techniques that ensure every custom-sized unit meets the same rigorous quality standards as our stock products regardless of material selection. UL 900 Class 1 certification validates continuous operation capability at material-specific temperature ratings, while Made in USA construction guarantees dimensional accuracy and structural integrity throughout the filter’s 5-15 year service life.

Material-Specific Frame Construction

The foundation of this custom filter begins with a precision-formed frame engineered for optimal strength and durability in your selected material. Aluminum frames utilize .030″ thick aluminum alloy providing excellent strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance in standard HVAC environments. Galvanized steel frames feature 24-gauge hot-dip galvanized steel offering enhanced rust resistance and 50°F higher temperature capability than aluminum. Stainless steel frames employ 24-gauge 304 stainless steel delivering maximum corrosion resistance and 900°F continuous operation capability for extreme applications. Professional-grade mitered corners secured with material-matched 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 5-Ply Media Pack

The filtration media consists of five layers of corrugated screen wire arranged in a precision criss-cross weave pattern specifically engineered for 1″ nominal depth applications. This 5-ply configuration achieves 43% dust arrestance efficiency while maintaining low airflow resistance of just 0.08″ w.g. at rated airflow. Aluminum and galvanized steel filters utilize aluminum screen wire media providing excellent particulate capture with lightweight construction, while stainless steel filters employ all-stainless media ensuring complete corrosion resistance in harsh environments. Each layer features expanded mesh construction with carefully engineered strand spacing that captures large particulates through multiple interception stages. The corrugated structure provides increased surface area within the 1″ nominal 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.

Corner Drain System

Three strategically positioned corner drain holes facilitate rapid water evacuation following cleaning operations, with typical air-drying times of 30-90 minutes depending on material selection and ambient conditions. The open mesh construction and robust 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 material-specific construction naturally resists environmental degradation, with aluminum resisting oxidation in standard conditions, galvanized steel providing enhanced rust protection in humid environments, and stainless steel offering complete corrosion immunity in harsh applications—all maintaining structural integrity and filtration performance through repeated wet-dry cycles throughout the filter’s multi-year service life.

Material-Matched Face Grid Protection

Both upstream and downstream faces incorporate material-matched protective grids that shield the 5-ply media layers from physical damage during handling, installation, and operation. Aluminum filters feature 24-gauge aluminum grids, galvanized filters utilize 30-gauge galvanized steel grids, and stainless filters employ 30-gauge 304 stainless steel grids—all matched to frame material for consistent corrosion resistance and temperature capability. 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 low pressure drop characteristic of 1″ nominal depth filtration. The grid construction provides impact resistance against accidental contact during filter changeouts while adding manageable 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 HIAS10 Custom 1″ Washable Mesh Filter requires minimal maintenance while delivering 5-15 years of reliable service depending on material selection and environmental conditions. Unlike disposable filters that create ongoing frustration finding compatible replacements for custom sizes, this industrial-grade mesh 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, applicable to all three material options. Garden hose cleaning provides the simplest approach, using high-pressure nozzle settings to spray both sides of the 5-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 filter in warm soapy water for 15-30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly (aluminum and galvanized steel benefit from mild detergent, while stainless steel tolerates stronger cleaning agents if needed). Commercial dishwashers offer hands-free cleaning for facilities with industrial dishwashing equipment, with all three materials tolerating standard commercial dishwasher temperatures and detergents. Pressure washing delivers fast results for heavier contamination, using 1000-1500 PSI with warm water (stainless steel tolerates highest pressure, aluminum requires moderate care to prevent frame distortion). All three materials withstand repeated washing without degradation, maintaining structural integrity throughout their service life while operating continuously at material-specific temperature ratings.

Recommended Cleaning Frequency

Cleaning intervals depend on operating environment and particulate loading rates, not material selection—all three materials require cleaning at identical intervals based on dust accumulation. 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 5-ply screen wire media appears visibly loaded with dust or when system airflow seems reduced. Monitor pressure drop across the filter if instrumentation is available, cleaning when resistance reaches 0.50″ w.g. to maintain energy-efficient system operation.

Material-Specific Handling Considerations

While all three materials provide robust construction, handling recommendations vary slightly by material selection. Aluminum filters offer the lightest weight for easiest handling but require moderate care during pressure washing to prevent frame distortion—support larger custom sizes from underneath during cleaning. Galvanized steel filters provide enhanced durability with moderate weight increase, tolerating somewhat more aggressive handling and cleaning pressure than aluminum while still benefiting from proper support during maintenance. Stainless steel filters, being the heaviest, may require two-person handling for larger custom sizes but tolerate the most aggressive cleaning methods including high-pressure washers, harsh detergents, and repeated thermal cycling without structural degradation. All three materials deliver full service life with consistent filtration performance when cleaning and handling protocols follow these basic material-appropriate guidelines.

Installation

Installing the HIAS10 Custom 1″ Washable Mesh Filter follows the same straightforward procedures as standard filters regardless of material selection, with 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 and material 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. Note the material selection (aluminum, galvanized, or stainless steel) for documentation in your maintenance records.

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 HIAS10 custom filter and locate the airflow direction arrow clearly marked on the frame. The 1″ nominal (7/8″ actual) depth provides comfortable handling, though heavier stainless steel filters in larger custom sizes may benefit from two-person 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 without forcing. The robust frame construction across all three materials prevents flexing during installation. 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 low pressure drop of the 1″ nominal filter means system performance should match or exceed previous levels with comparable or better filtration. Document the installation date, custom dimensions, and material selection in your maintenance records for future reordering through your online account. The 43% dust arrestance efficiency begins immediately protecting downstream HVAC components from large particulates and debris regardless of material choice. Establish a regular inspection schedule based on your specific environmental conditions to monitor dust accumulation and maintain optimal system performance throughout the filter’s 5-15 year service life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose between aluminum, galvanized, or stainless steel?

Material selection depends primarily on your operating temperature and environmental conditions. Choose aluminum (HIA) for standard HVAC applications with normal indoor temperatures up to 275°F in dry or moderately humid environments—this is the most cost-effective option. Select galvanized steel (HIG) when you need enhanced corrosion resistance in humid environments or elevated temperature capability up to 325°F at moderate cost increase. Specify 304 stainless steel (HIS) for extreme temperatures up to 900°F, highly corrosive environments with chemical exposure or salt air, or when maximum 10-15 year service life justifies premium investment. All three materials provide identical 43% dust arrestance efficiency and identical custom sizing capability.

Can I order different materials for the same dimensions?

Yes, absolutely. Once you’ve specified your custom dimensions, you can order the same size in any of the three materials depending on your needs. Many facility managers maintain inventory in multiple materials for different zones—aluminum for standard office areas, stainless steel for high-temperature or corrosive zones. Your custom dimensions are saved in your account, making it easy to reorder in the same or different materials as needs change.

What’s the difference between 1″ nominal and 1″ actual depth?

The HIAS10 features 1″ nominal depth, which means 7/8″ actual thickness—this is industry-standard sizing that fits the vast majority of HVAC filter tracks designed for “1 inch” filters. The slight undercut ensures the filter slides easily into standard housing without binding. If your application truly requires exactly 1.000″ depth, please specify “1 inch exact” when ordering and we can accommodate that requirement.

Can this replace discontinued manufacturer filters?

Absolutely. The HIAS10 is specifically designed to provide direct OEM replacement capability for discontinued filters from any manufacturer in any of the three material options. Simply measure your existing filter’s height, width, and depth, identify the material if you want to match original construction or upgrade to better performance, then specify those details when ordering. Our precision manufacturing ensures your custom filter fits perfectly without modifications, adapter frames, or system changes.

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 and material selection (stainless steel may add 1-2 days to lead time). 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.

Are all three materials washable and reusable?

Yes, all three material options—aluminum, galvanized steel, and stainless steel—are designed for repeated washing and reuse throughout their service lives. Aluminum and galvanized steel provide 5-10 years of service, while stainless steel offers extended 10-15 year service life. All three withstand repeated cleaning cycles using water-based methods, detergents, pressure washers, or commercial dishwashers without degradation. Clean using the same methods regardless of material, though stainless steel tolerates the most aggressive cleaning agents and highest pressures.

Does material selection affect filtration efficiency?

No, all three material options provide identical 43% dust arrestance efficiency and 68 g/sq ft dust-holding capacity. The 5-ply media configuration delivers the same particle capture performance regardless of whether you choose aluminum, galvanized steel, or stainless steel construction. Material selection affects temperature rating, corrosion resistance, weight, service life, and cost—but not filtration efficiency.

Can I use stainless steel in residential applications?

While you certainly can use stainless steel (HIS) in residential applications, it’s typically not cost-effective unless you have specific requirements like coastal location with salt air exposure, proximity to swimming pools with chlorine exposure, or unusually high temperatures. Most residential applications are well-served by aluminum (HIA) construction at significantly lower cost. Stainless steel shines in industrial, commercial, or specialty residential applications where its unique properties justify the premium investment.

What if I need filters in multiple custom sizes?

We can manufacture filters to any dimensional specifications in any of the three materials, so properties with multiple HVAC systems requiring different custom sizes can order each size individually in the material that best suits each location’s requirements. Each custom size is saved in your online account for effortless reordering. Many facility managers maintain inventories of different sizes and materials to match their diverse equipment and environmental needs. Volume pricing is available for orders of multiple units.

Why Choose the HIAS10 Custom 1″ Washable Mesh Filter?

Choosing the HIAS10 Custom 1″ Washable Mesh Filter eliminates the frustration and expense of searching for compatible replacement filters for HVAC systems with discontinued or non-standard dimensions while providing unmatched flexibility to match your specific environmental and temperature requirements through three material options. Whether you’re maintaining older equipment with obsolete filter sizes, supporting European-manufactured systems with metric dimensions, servicing high-temperature industrial applications, or managing corrosive environments, this made-to-order solution provides permanent filtration precisely matched to your unique needs. The custom manufacturing process ensures perfect dimensional fit while material selection ensures optimal performance and maximum service life in your specific operating conditions.

Built to the same rigorous quality standards as our stock products, this custom filter features precision-engineered 5-ply media construction and UL 900 Class 1 certification with material-specific temperature ratings from 275°F (aluminum) to 900°F (stainless steel). The industry-standard 1″ nominal (7/8″ actual) depth profile fits the vast majority of HVAC filter tracks while providing optimal balance of dust-holding capacity and airflow resistance. Made in USA with premium materials—.030″ aluminum alloy, 24-gauge galvanized steel, or 24-gauge 304 stainless steel—each custom filter is manufactured to your exact specifications with ±1/8″ tolerance, ensuring precise fit and optimal performance throughout its 5-15 year service life depending on material selection.

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 and selected your material, 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 across all three materials protects downstream HVAC components while the low 0.08″ pressure drop maintains optimal system efficiency. Simple water-based cleaning every few months restores peak performance without expensive cleaning agents or professional services, with all three materials supporting repeated cleaning cycles throughout their multi-year service lives.

Facility managers, property owners, HVAC contractors, and homeowners choose the HIAS10 when standard filters cannot solve their filtration challenges and when material flexibility ensures optimal performance in their specific environments. From maintaining vintage equipment to supporting harsh industrial installations requiring stainless steel’s corrosion resistance and 900°F capability, this custom mesh filter provides the permanent solution that eliminates filter procurement frustration while delivering professional-grade filtration performance matched to your exact dimensional and environmental requirements. Invest in a custom-manufactured filter that fits your system perfectly, uses the ideal material for your operating conditions, provides decades of reliable service, and ensures you’ll never struggle to find compatible replacements again. Order your custom HIAS10 today and experience the confidence that comes from having a permanent filtration solution precisely matched to every aspect of your unique HVAC system requirements.