Description
Product Overview
The HIA402020 represents industrial-grade filtration engineering specifically designed for commercial HVAC systems demanding reliable pre-filtration with long-term reusability. This 20x20x4 washable aluminum mesh filter delivers professional-grade performance in demanding commercial and light industrial environments where equipment protection and operational cost reduction are critical priorities. Built to UL 900 Class 1 standards with continuous temperature rating of 275°F, this aluminum mesh filter provides facility managers and maintenance professionals with a permanent filtration solution that eliminates recurring replacement costs while maintaining optimal system airflow and equipment protection.
Constructed with a robust .030-inch thick aluminum alloy frame and 9-ply corrugated criss-cross aluminum screen wire media, the HIA402020 delivers 53% dust arrestance efficiency specifically calibrated for commercial pre-filtration applications. The 4-inch depth configuration provides exceptional dust-holding capacity of 97 grams per square foot—significantly outperforming standard 1-inch and 2-inch alternatives while maintaining low airflow resistance that protects blower motors and extends equipment service life. The square 20×20 format provides 400 square inches of filtration area, ideal for commercial air handling units requiring balanced airflow distribution. This washable mesh filter serves as the critical first line of defense in multi-stage filtration systems, capturing large particulates, dust, lint, and debris before they reach expensive downstream HEPA or high-efficiency pleated filters.
Unlike disposable alternatives that generate ongoing procurement and disposal costs, this reusable aluminum mesh filter delivers 5-10 years of continuous service with proper maintenance protocols. The all-aluminum construction—including mitered corners secured with aluminum pop rivets and 24-gauge face grids—ensures structural integrity through repeated cleaning cycles using standard commercial detergents, pressure washers, or industrial dishwashers. Three corner drain holes facilitate complete water removal after washing, preventing moisture retention and accelerating return-to-service time. Made in USA with premium materials and precision manufacturing, the HIA402020 represents the gold standard in permanent washable filtration for facilities prioritizing reliability, sustainability, and total cost of ownership reduction.
Commercial facilities, light industrial operations, and institutional buildings rely on these industrial-grade aluminum mesh filters to protect critical HVAC infrastructure while minimizing environmental impact through elimination of disposable filter waste. The 20x20x4 configuration fits standard square commercial air handler frames and rooftop units, providing versatility for retrofit installations and new construction projects. With low initial airflow resistance and the ability to maintain performance through repeated cleaning cycles, this washable mesh filter delivers measurable ROI through reduced maintenance labor, eliminated disposal fees, and extended service intervals compared to disposable filtration products.
Key Benefits of the HIA402020 Washable Aluminum Mesh Filter
- Repeated Washability & Reusability: Clean and reuse repeatedly with standard detergents, pressure washers, or industrial dishwashers—eliminate recurring filter replacement costs and reduce environmental waste from disposable filters
- High Temperature Performance: UL 900 Class 1 certified for continuous operation at 275°F makes this ideal for commercial kitchens, manufacturing facilities, and high-temperature industrial applications where standard filters fail
- Deep 4-Inch Filtration Depth: Superior dust-holding capacity of 97 grams per square foot with 53% dust arrestance efficiency provides extended service intervals and better protection for downstream filtration stages
- Square Format Advantage: 20×20 dimensions provide 400 square inches of filtration area with balanced airflow distribution ideal for commercial air handlers and rooftop units
- Made in USA Quality: Precision-manufactured with premium .030-inch thick aluminum alloy frame, 9-ply aluminum screen wire media, and corrosion-resistant construction ensuring consistent performance in demanding commercial environments
- Extended Service Life: 5-10 year operational lifespan with proper maintenance protocols delivers exceptional total cost of ownership compared to disposable filters requiring monthly or quarterly replacement
Technical Specifications
The HIA402020 20x20x4 washable aluminum mesh filter represents precision-engineered filtration technology designed for demanding commercial and light industrial HVAC applications. This 4-inch depth aluminum pre-filter delivers exceptional performance specifications validated through rigorous UL 900 Class 1 testing, ensuring reliable operation in continuous 275°F environments where conventional filters fail. Every dimension, material gauge, and construction detail has been optimized to provide maximum dust-holding capacity while maintaining low airflow resistance critical for energy-efficient HVAC system operation.
Manufactured in the USA using premium .030″ thick aluminum alloy framing and 9-ply corrugated criss-cross aluminum screen wire media, this washable mesh filter meets the stringent requirements of commercial kitchen exhaust systems, manufacturing facilities, and industrial air handling units. The 19.75″ x 19.75″ x 3.75″ actual dimensions ensure precise fit in standard 20x20x4 nominal filter housings, while the 53% dust arrestance efficiency protects downstream HEPA and high-efficiency pleated filters from premature loading. With 97 grams per square foot dust-holding capacity—significantly higher than 1-inch and 2-inch alternatives—this 4-inch depth configuration extends cleaning intervals and reduces maintenance labor costs in high-particulate environments.
The comprehensive specifications below detail every aspect of construction, performance, and certification data required for HVAC system design, procurement specifications, and regulatory compliance documentation. Each specification has been verified through third-party testing to ensure consistent quality and performance across every unit manufactured.
| Specifications: | Details: |
|---|---|
| Model Number | HIA402020 (HI Series – Aluminum) |
| Nominal Size | 20″ x 20″ x 4″ |
| Actual Dimensions | 19.75″ x 19.75″ x 3.75″ (±1/16″) |
| Frame Material | .030″ thick aluminum alloy |
| Filter Media | Multi-layer aluminum screen wire mesh (9-ply for 4″ depth, corrugated criss-cross configuration) |
| Face Grids | 24 gauge welded aluminum |
| Frame Construction | Precision-mitered corners, aluminum pop rivets |
| Drainage | 3 corner drain holes for complete water removal after washing |
| Maximum Operating Temperature | 275°F continuous (UL 900 Class 1 certified) |
| Dust Arrestance Efficiency | 53% average at rated airflow (350 FPM) |
| Dust Holding Capacity | 97 grams per square foot |
| Rated Airflow | 350 FPM (feet per minute) |
| Recommended Airflow Range | 300-500 FPM face velocity |
| Initial Pressure Drop | 0.08″ w.g. @ 350 FPM (clean filter) |
| Recommended Final Resistance | 0.50″ w.g. (water gauge) before cleaning |
| Weight | 3.0 lbs (dry) |
| Washability | Repeated cleaning cycles with commercial detergents, industrial dishwashers, or spray wash systems |
| Service Life | 5-10 years with proper maintenance protocols |
| Compliance & Certifications | UL 900 Class 1, UL Classified 900, ASTM E 2931 (washable filter standard) |
| Country of Origin | Made in USA |
Industrial Applications
The HIA402020 20x20x4 washable aluminum mesh filter delivers versatile performance across diverse commercial, industrial, and institutional environments where high-temperature tolerance, repeated cleaning capability, and long-term cost savings are essential. With its 275°F continuous temperature rating and durable 9-ply aluminum construction, this industrial-grade filter excels in demanding applications from commercial kitchens and manufacturing facilities to data centers and educational institutions requiring reliable air filtration without recurring replacement costs.
Commercial HVAC Systems
Commercial kitchens, restaurants, hotels, and hospitality facilities rely on the HIA402020 20x20x4 aluminum mesh filter for makeup air applications where high-temperature environments and frequent cleaning are necessary. The 275°F continuous temperature rating makes this filter ideal for commercial cooking ventilation and food service operations where elevated temperatures would quickly degrade disposable filters. Restaurant chains and hotel properties appreciate the repeated washing capability—simply run the filters through commercial dishwashers or pressure wash with degreasing detergent between shifts to maintain optimal performance. The square 20×20 format provides 400 square inches of filtration area with balanced airflow distribution for standard rooftop unit configurations. The aluminum construction resists corrosion from moisture and cleaning chemicals while providing 53% dust arrestance to protect downstream HVAC equipment. Facility managers report significant cost reductions by eliminating monthly filter purchases and minimizing labor hours spent on filter changeouts across multiple locations.
Manufacturing and Industrial Facilities
Production floors, metalworking shops, welding facilities, and industrial manufacturing operations depend on the HIA402020 mesh filter to handle moderate to heavy particulate loads in environments where disposable filters fail prematurely. The robust 9-ply aluminum screen wire media captures metal shavings, grinding dust, welding fume particles, and industrial debris while maintaining low airflow resistance that preserves HVAC system efficiency. The 4-inch depth provides exceptional dust-holding capacity (97 g/sq ft) compared to thinner alternatives, extending service intervals between cleanings in high-particulate environments. Manufacturing facilities operating paint booths, powder coating ovens, or high-temperature processes benefit from the 275°F rating that allows continuous operation without filter degradation or fire hazards. Industrial maintenance teams pressure wash these filters weekly or monthly depending on production schedules, eliminating the recurring expense and disposal logistics of disposable filters. Automotive plants, aerospace manufacturers, and machine shops report 5-10 year service life with proper cleaning protocols, translating to measurable cost savings per filter location.
Educational and Institutional Buildings
Schools, universities, hospitals, government buildings, and public facilities face budget constraints that make the HIA402020 20x20x4 washable filter an economically superior choice for commercial HVAC systems requiring reliable pre-filtration. Educational institutions with centralized mechanical rooms serving multiple buildings eliminate recurring filter procurement costs by investing in permanent washable solutions that outlast disposable alternatives by decades. Hospital facilities managers appreciate the ability to maintain consistent indoor air quality without generating medical waste from disposable filters, supporting sustainability initiatives while protecting sensitive patient care environments. University physical plant departments standardize on these aluminum mesh filters across campus buildings, training maintenance staff to clean filters on quarterly schedules using institutional dishwashing equipment or pressure washing stations. The 53% dust arrestance protects expensive HEPA and final-stage filters in critical applications like hospital operating rooms, laboratory research facilities, and clean manufacturing spaces. Government buildings and public institutions benefit from reduced procurement cycles, simplified inventory management, and measurable cost avoidance that demonstrates fiscal responsibility.
Multi-Family Properties and Light Commercial Applications
Apartment complexes, condominium buildings, townhome communities, and property management companies operating commercial-grade HVAC systems realize significant operational savings by deploying HIA402020 washable aluminum pre-filters in their mechanical rooms and rooftop units. Multi-family properties with central air handling systems requiring pre-filtration stages benefit from the long-term reusability and 5-10 year service life, eliminating recurring filter procurement costs. Property managers serving large portfolios reduce maintenance labor by standardizing on washable pre-filters that protect downstream high-efficiency filters from premature loading. The 275°F temperature rating and durable aluminum construction withstand continuous operation in commercial rooftop units and air handlers typically found in multi-family buildings, where reliable pre-filtration extends the life of expensive HEPA or MERV-rated secondary filters. The square 20×20 format fits many standard rooftop unit configurations.
Data Centers and Server Rooms
Data centers, server rooms, telecommunications facilities, and critical IT infrastructure require uncompromising reliability from every component in their precision cooling systems—making the HIA402020 20x20x4 aluminum mesh filter an essential pre-filtration stage protecting expensive downstream HEPA filters and sensitive equipment from particulate contamination. The 9-ply construction provides consistent airflow performance in 24/7 operation environments where even minor pressure fluctuations can trigger cooling alarms or equipment shutdowns. Data center operators schedule quarterly cleaning cycles during maintenance windows, pressure washing filters with deionized water to remove accumulated dust without introducing contaminants that could migrate into clean rooms or equipment spaces. The 53% dust arrestance captures the majority of airborne particles before they reach final-stage filters, extending the life of expensive HEPA filters that protect server racks, storage arrays, and networking equipment from dust-related failures. The square 20×20 format fits various CRAC unit configurations. Colocation facilities and cloud service providers appreciate the predictable performance and elimination of filter supply chain risks that could compromise uptime SLAs.
Construction Features
The HIA402020 20x20x4 washable aluminum mesh filter represents precision industrial manufacturing with UL 900 Class 1 certification for continuous operation at 275°F. Every component is engineered for maximum durability and performance in commercial HVAC applications, from the heavy-duty aluminum alloy frame to the multi-layer 9-ply screen wire media. Made in USA with stringent quality control ensures consistent dimensional accuracy and structural integrity that withstands decades of repeated cleaning cycles.
Aluminum Alloy Frame Construction
The foundation of this industrial mesh filter begins with a precision-formed .030-inch thick aluminum alloy frame engineered for maximum structural rigidity and dimensional stability. This heavy-gauge construction provides superior resistance to warping and distortion even under continuous exposure to 275°F operating temperatures common in commercial HVAC systems. The aluminum alloy composition delivers exceptional corrosion resistance in humid environments while maintaining its structural properties through repeated cleaning cycles. The square 20×20 frame geometry provides optimal structural support while fitting standard air handler installations. Professional-grade construction and reinforced corners ensure the frame maintains perfect dimensional accuracy throughout its 5-10 year service life, preventing bypass air leakage that compromises filtration efficiency.
9-Ply Screen Wire Media
The filtration media consists of nine layers of corrugated aluminum screen wire arranged in a precision criss-cross weave pattern that achieves 53% dust arrestance efficiency while maintaining optimal airflow characteristics. Each layer features expanded aluminum mesh construction with carefully engineered strand spacing and corrugation depth to capture particles across multiple stages. This multi-ply configuration creates a three-dimensional filtration matrix where particles are intercepted through multiple mechanisms rather than relying on a single barrier layer. The corrugated structure provides increased surface area within the 4-inch depth while the criss-cross weave pattern ensures uniform particle distribution across the entire media pack. The 9-ply construction in the 4-inch depth delivers superior dust-holding capacity (97 g/sq ft) compared to 1-inch (65 g/sq ft) and 2-inch (81 g/sq ft) alternatives.
4-Inch Depth Design
The 4-inch depth specification provides substantial advantages over thinner 1-inch and 2-inch mesh filter designs commonly used in residential and light commercial applications. This increased depth allows for significantly greater dust-holding capacity rated at 97 grams per square foot, which directly translates to extended intervals between cleaning cycles and reduced maintenance frequency in commercial operations. The deeper media pack reduces initial pressure drop across the filter while maintaining consistent airflow resistance as particulate loading increases over time. This depth dimension represents the premium standard for commercial HVAC systems where maximum reliability and minimal maintenance intervention are critical operational requirements. The 4-inch profile also provides superior structural rigidity that prevents media compression under high-velocity airflow conditions.
Reinforced Corner Construction
Each corner of the filter frame features heavy-duty reinforcement designed to withstand the mechanical stresses of repeated handling, installation, removal, and cleaning operations throughout the filter’s multi-year service life. The reinforced corner assembly prevents frame distortion that could create gaps between the filter and housing, which would allow unfiltered bypass air to compromise system performance. Precision-engineered corner joints maintain the critical 90-degree angles essential for proper sealing against standard filter housings and racks. The reinforcement design distributes mechanical loads evenly across the frame structure, preventing localized stress concentrations that could lead to premature failure. This robust corner construction ensures the filter maintains dimensional integrity and perfect sealing even after repeated installation and removal cycles.
Drainage and Airflow Design
The open mesh construction and aluminum material composition enable rapid and complete water drainage following cleaning operations, with typical drying times of just 30 to 60 minutes under normal ambient conditions. The corrugated media design creates natural drainage channels that prevent water pooling within the filter structure, eliminating environments conducive to bacterial growth, mold development, or odor formation. Strategic drainage pathways ensure no trapped moisture remains in corner joints or frame channels where stagnant water could compromise hygiene or accelerate corrosion. The open architecture also optimizes airflow patterns through the media layers, creating uniform velocity distribution across the entire filter face area. The 4-inch depth provides increased media surface area that reduces face velocity, extending filter life and improving dust-holding performance.
Face Grid Protection
Both the upstream and downstream faces of the filter incorporate 24-gauge aluminum protective grids that shield the delicate inner 9-ply media layers from physical damage during handling, installation, and operation. These face grids distribute incoming airflow uniformly across the entire filter surface, preventing concentrated jet streams that could damage the corrugated media structure or create uneven particle loading patterns. The grid construction provides substantial impact resistance against accidental contact during filter changeouts or maintenance activities while adding minimal airflow resistance to the overall filter assembly. The professional appearance of the aluminum face grids also indicates quality construction to facility managers and maintenance personnel. These protective grids contribute to the extended service life by maintaining the structural integrity of the internal media pack throughout thousands of operational hours and repeated cleaning cycles.
Maintenance & Cleaning
The HIA402020 20x20x4 washable aluminum mesh filter requires minimal maintenance while delivering 5-10 years of reliable service. Unlike disposable filters requiring monthly replacement, this industrial-grade aluminum filter supports repeated cleaning cycles using standard water-based methods without expensive cleaning agents or replacement costs. Simple periodic washing restores the 9-ply aluminum screen wire media to optimal performance, maintaining the 53% dust arrestance efficiency and protecting downstream HVAC equipment.
Cleaning Methods
Four effective cleaning methods accommodate different facility capabilities and filter contamination levels. Pressure washing delivers the fastest results for commercial operations, using 1000-1500 PSI with warm water to remove accumulated dust and debris in 3-5 minutes per filter. Commercial dishwashers provide hands-free cleaning for facilities with industrial dishwashing equipment, running standard wash cycles at 140-160°F water temperature. The sink or tub soaking method works well for smaller operations, submerging the mesh filter in warm soapy water for 15-30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with clean water. Garden hose cleaning offers the simplest approach for light contamination, using high-pressure nozzle settings to spray both sides of the filter media until water runs clear. Optional mild degreaser or alkaline cleaner assists with heavy accumulation in kitchen applications, though most installations require only warm water for effective cleaning. The aluminum construction withstands repeated washing without degradation, maintaining structural integrity throughout the filter’s 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, with visual inspection determining optimal timing. Light dust environments such as office buildings or retail spaces require quarterly cleaning every three months to maintain proper airflow and 53% dust arrestance efficiency. Moderate commercial applications including manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and institutional buildings benefit from monthly cleaning schedules to prevent excessive pressure drop across the 4-inch depth filter media. Heavy industrial operations with continuous particulate generation need weekly to bi-weekly cleaning intervals to sustain optimal HVAC system performance and protect expensive downstream filtration equipment. Visual inspection provides the most reliable cleaning indicator, with cleaning necessary when the 9-ply aluminum screen wire media appears visibly loaded with dust or when measured pressure drop exceeds manufacturer specifications. Establishing documented cleaning schedules based on actual operating conditions optimizes filter performance while maximizing the cost savings of reusable filtration.
Drying and Reinstallation
Complete drying before reinstallation prevents moisture-related problems and maintains optimal filter performance in HVAC systems rated for continuous 275°F operation. Air drying requires 30-60 minutes in typical indoor conditions, with the aluminum frame’s three corner drain holes facilitating complete water removal from the filter assembly. Accelerated drying using portable fans or air movers reduces waiting time to 15-20 minutes, especially beneficial for commercial operations requiring rapid filter changeout. Inspect the cleaned and dried mesh filter for frame damage, bent corners, or torn media before reinstalling, as handling during cleaning may occasionally cause minor damage requiring repair or replacement. Proper orientation during reinstallation ensures the filter seats correctly in the holding frame, with gasket surfaces clean and smooth for effective air sealing. Recording cleaning dates, pressure drop measurements, and filter condition observations in maintenance logs establishes documented service history supporting long-term performance tracking. The combination of aluminum construction durability and proper drying procedures ensures each cleaning cycle fully restores the filter’s 53% dust arrestance efficiency without compromising the expected 5-10 year service life.
Maximizing Service Life
Proper handling techniques and operational awareness extend the HIA402020 aluminum mesh filter’s service life to the full 5-10 year potential while minimizing total filtration costs. Avoid excessive pressure during cleaning that could deform the .030-inch thick aluminum frame or damage the 9-ply aluminum screen wire media, using moderate pressure washing settings between 1000-1500 PSI rather than industrial-grade 3000+ PSI equipment. Regular inspection for frame damage, cracked corners, or media tears during each cleaning cycle identifies problems before they compromise filter performance or allow bypass airflow around damaged areas. Maintaining HVAC system temperatures within the 275°F continuous rating prevents thermal damage to the aluminum construction and ensures long-term structural integrity. Calculate total cost of ownership by comparing the one-time purchase price plus minimal cleaning costs against disposable filters replaced over the same 5-10 year period, demonstrating cost savings exceeding 300-500% for washable aluminum filters. The combination of repeated cleaning capability, robust industrial-grade construction, and simple water-based maintenance procedures makes washable aluminum mesh filters the most economical choice for commercial and light industrial HVAC applications requiring reliable 4-inch depth pre-filtration with maximum service life and minimum recurring costs.
Installation
Installing the HIA402020 20x20x4 washable aluminum mesh filter is a straightforward process that fits standard 20x20x4 filter housings used throughout commercial and industrial HVAC systems. Professional HVAC contractors or trained facility maintenance staff can complete the installation in minutes with proper procedures. Following the guidelines below ensures optimal performance, proper sealing, and long-term reliability of your 9-ply aluminum filtration system.
Pre-Installation Considerations
Before installing your new washable aluminum mesh filter, verify that your filter housing accepts standard 20x20x4 nominal size filters with actual dimensions of 19.75 inches by 19.75 inches by 3.75 inches depth. Inspect the filter housing interior for accumulated dust, debris, or damage that could compromise the seal or restrict airflow. Check the condition of existing gaskets or sealing surfaces, and have replacement gaskets available if the current ones show signs of wear, cracking, or compression set. Ensure the HVAC system is completely shut down and locked out before accessing the filter compartment for safety. Locate the airflow direction arrow on your existing filter to understand proper orientation for the new installation. Verify that your HVAC system operates within the filter’s temperature rating of 275°F continuous operation to prevent damage to the aluminum frame and media. Clean hands or wearing clean gloves during installation helps maintain the filter’s cleanliness and prevents contamination of the 9-ply aluminum screen wire media.
Installation Steps
Begin by completely shutting down your HVAC system and verifying power is disconnected to prevent accidental startup during installation. Open the filter access door or remove the access panel according to your system’s design. Carefully remove the old filter from the housing, noting its orientation and airflow direction. Thoroughly clean the filter housing interior with a vacuum or damp cloth to remove accumulated dust and ensure optimal sealing surfaces for the new filter. Inspect the aluminum frame of your new HIA402020 filter and locate the airflow direction arrow clearly marked on the frame. The lightweight 3.0 pound construction makes handling easy while the rigid aluminum frame maintains its shape during installation. Insert the filter into the housing with the airflow arrow pointing in the correct direction of air movement through your system. Press the filter firmly into place ensuring all edges seat properly against the gasket or housing walls to prevent bypass air leakage. Verify the filter fits snugly without gaps around the perimeter before securing the access door or panel.
Post-Installation Verification
After securing the filter access door, restore power to the HVAC system and restart normal operation. Listen carefully for any unusual sounds such as air whistling or rattling that might indicate improper seating or air bypass around the filter frame. Verify proper airflow by checking air velocity at supply registers or grilles matches expected performance levels. If your system includes pressure drop gauges or monitoring equipment, record the initial clean filter pressure drop reading to establish a baseline for future maintenance scheduling. Monitor the system operation for the first hours after installation to ensure stable performance and no unexpected issues arise. The filter’s 53% dust arrestance efficiency will immediately begin protecting your downstream HVAC components and any secondary filtration stages from large particles and debris. Document the installation date in your facility maintenance records to track the filter’s service life and plan for the first cleaning cycle based on your specific environmental conditions. Establish a regular inspection schedule to monitor dust accumulation and maintain optimal system performance throughout the filter’s 5-10 year expected service life.
Complementary Products
The HIA402020 20x20x4 washable aluminum mesh filter with 9-ply construction and 275°F temperature rating excels as a pre-filtration stage, but complete HVAC protection requires a comprehensive multi-stage filtration approach. By combining this industrial-grade washable pre-filter with specialized secondary filtration products, facility managers achieve optimal indoor air quality while maximizing equipment protection and energy efficiency.
The 53% dust arrestance efficiency of this 4-inch depth aluminum pre-filter makes it the ideal foundation for advanced filtration systems in commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities requiring superior air quality control.
Compatible Secondary Filtration Products
Foam Secondary Filters (MERV 4):
Install these washable foam filters downstream from your HIA402020 4-inch pre-filter for enhanced fine particle capture:
• 20x20x1 Reusable MERV 4 Foam Air Filter (HFA102020) – Size-matched foam filter provides washable secondary filtration with enhanced fine particle capture.
• 20x20x2 Reusable MERV 4 Foam Air Filter (HFA202020) – 2-inch depth provides increased dust-holding capacity for extended cleaning intervals.
Electrostatic Secondary Filters (MERV 6):
For enhanced particle capture with washable electrostatic media:
• 20x20x1 Reusable MERV 6 Electrostatic Air Filter (ECA102020) – Size-matched electrostatic filter captures fine particles that pass through the aluminum pre-filter using permanent electrostatic media.
• 20x25x1 Reusable MERV 6 Electrostatic Air Filter (ECA102025) – Compatible size for systems requiring higher-capacity electrostatic filtration after standard pre-filtration stage.
Pad Holding Frames & Accessories:
Professional mounting systems for secure installation and filter management accessories available through our complete product catalog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this filter be washed and reused?
Yes, this aluminum mesh filter is designed for repeated washing and reuse throughout its 5-10 year service life. The 9-ply aluminum screen wire media and .030″ thick aluminum frame construction withstand repeated cleaning cycles without degradation. Clean using standard detergents with warm water, pressure washing equipment, or commercial dishwashers. The three corner drain holes ensure complete water removal after cleaning. Unlike disposable filters requiring monthly replacement, this washable solution eliminates recurring filter costs while maintaining consistent performance through repeated cleaning cycles.
What is the temperature rating for continuous operation?
This filter is UL 900 Class 1 certified for continuous operation at 275°F, making it suitable for high-temperature commercial and light industrial HVAC applications. The all-aluminum construction maintains structural integrity and filtration performance at elevated temperatures where disposable filters would fail or present fire hazards. This temperature rating makes it ideal for rooftop HVAC units, commercial kitchen makeup air systems, industrial process air handlers, and manufacturing facilities with heat-generating equipment. The 275°F continuous rating provides reliable performance in demanding thermal environments.
How often does this filter need to be cleaned?
Cleaning frequency depends on your specific environment and airborne particulate levels. Most commercial HVAC applications require cleaning every 30-90 days under normal conditions. High-particulate environments like manufacturing facilities may require monthly cleaning, while cleaner office buildings might extend to quarterly maintenance. Monitor the filter visually for dust accumulation buildup or when you notice reduced airflow through your HVAC system. Establishing a regular inspection schedule ensures optimal performance and prevents excessive pressure drop across your filtration system.
What is the expected service life?
With proper maintenance and regular cleaning, this aluminum mesh filter delivers 5-10 years of reliable service life. The durable .030″ aluminum frame construction and aluminum screen wire media resist corrosion, maintain dimensional stability, and withstand repeated cleaning cycles without performance degradation. This exceptional longevity translates to significant cost savings compared to disposable filters requiring monthly replacement. A single investment in this washable filter eliminates numerous disposable filter purchases over its service life, reducing both filter costs and disposal waste while maintaining consistent HVAC system protection.
Is this filter compatible with my 20x20x4 filter housing?
This filter fits standard 20x20x4 nominal filter housings with actual dimensions of 19.75″x19.75″x3.75″. The nominal sizing follows industry standards where filters are manufactured slightly undersized to ensure proper fit in standard HVAC equipment filter tracks. Before ordering, verify your filter housing accepts 4-inch depth filters, as some systems are designed only for specific depths. Measure your existing filter or filter housing opening to confirm compatibility. The aluminum frame construction provides rigid dimensional stability ensuring consistent fit throughout the filter’s 5-10 year service life.
What is the difference between 1-inch, 2-inch, and 4-inch depth filters?
The primary difference is dust-holding capacity and cleaning interval frequency. 1-inch filters use 3-ply media with 65 g/sq ft capacity, suitable for light-duty residential and commercial applications. 2-inch filters feature 5-ply media with 81 g/sq ft capacity, providing improved performance for moderate commercial applications. 4-inch filters (this model) offer 9-ply media with 97 g/sq ft capacity—the highest dust-holding capacity extending service intervals significantly in heavy-duty commercial and industrial environments. All depths maintain the same 53% dust arrestance efficiency and 275°F temperature rating with 5-10 year service life. Choose depth based on your facility’s particulate loading and desired cleaning frequency.
Can I use this filter in a commercial kitchen exhaust system?
The 275°F continuous temperature rating and aluminum construction make this filter suitable for commercial kitchen makeup air systems and fresh air intakes, but NOT for grease-laden exhaust hoods requiring UL 1046 listed grease filters. This pre-filter excels in protecting rooftop HVAC units supplying conditioned air to commercial kitchens, capturing dust and outdoor contaminants before they enter the building. The washable aluminum construction withstands elevated temperatures from rooftop equipment exposure and cleans easily using commercial dishwashers. For grease exhaust applications, use UL 1046 rated filters designed specifically for that purpose.
What is the difference between HIA, HIG, and HIS series?
The primary difference is material construction affecting temperature rating and corrosion resistance. HIA series (this model) uses aluminum frames and media with 275°F continuous rating, ideal for most commercial HVAC applications offering excellent corrosion resistance and lightweight handling. HIG series features galvanized steel construction with higher temperature ratings suitable for industrial applications requiring extreme heat resistance. HIS series uses stainless steel frames and media providing superior corrosion resistance for harsh environments, coastal installations, or food processing facilities. All three series offer the same 4-inch depth and 53% dust arrestance efficiency with washable, reusable construction.
How do I know when the filter needs cleaning?
Visual inspection provides the most reliable indicator for cleaning requirements. When the aluminum screen wire media appears covered with dust accumulation or shows visible particulate buildup, schedule cleaning. Additionally, monitor your HVAC system for reduced airflow, increased fan noise, or higher-than-normal static pressure readings indicating restricted airflow. Most commercial building management systems track pressure drop across filters, triggering alerts when differential pressure exceeds design parameters. Establishing a regular monthly visual inspection schedule prevents excessive buildup, maintains optimal system efficiency, and extends equipment service life by preventing undue strain on HVAC fans and motors.
Is this filter made in the USA?
Yes, this filter is manufactured in the United States using domestic aluminum materials and American craftsmanship. US manufacturing ensures consistent quality control, adherence to UL 900 safety standards, and reliable product availability without international shipping delays. Supporting American manufacturing provides quality assurance, rapid replacement availability, and responsive customer service from domestic suppliers familiar with US commercial HVAC requirements and building codes. The Made in USA designation reflects commitment to quality materials, precision construction methods, and durable performance meeting the demanding requirements of commercial building operators and facility maintenance professionals.
Why Choose the HIA402020 20x20x4 Washable Aluminum Mesh Filter?
The HIA402020 20x20x4 washable aluminum mesh filter represents a strategic investment that eliminates recurring filter replacement costs while delivering reliable filtration performance year after year. With a service life of 5-10 years and repeated cleaning capability, this industrial-grade filter pays for itself within the first 12-18 months compared to disposable alternatives. Facility managers and maintenance professionals choose this washable solution to reduce operational expenses, minimize downtime associated with frequent filter changes, and gain complete control over maintenance schedules without dependence on recurring supply orders or vendor availability.
Built to the highest standards of industrial filtration engineering, this filter features rugged 9-ply aluminum screen wire media bonded to a .030-inch thick aluminum frame designed for continuous operation in demanding environments. The UL 900 Class 1 certification confirms this unit’s capability to perform reliably at temperatures up to 275°F, making it suitable for high-temperature applications including commercial kitchen makeup air systems, industrial process air handlers, and manufacturing facilities. Manufactured in the USA with precision construction and mitered corners reinforced with aluminum pop rivets, this filter delivers the durability and consistency that commercial and industrial facilities demand from critical HVAC components.
The square 20×20 format provides 400 square inches of filtration area with balanced airflow distribution, accommodating standard commercial air handling installations while the 4-inch depth delivers exceptional dust-holding capacity (97 g/sq ft). With 53% dust arrestance efficiency, this aluminum mesh filter effectively captures large particles, lint, and airborne debris that would otherwise compromise downstream HEPA filters or high-efficiency media, extending the life of expensive secondary filtration systems. From hospital HVAC systems and educational facilities to manufacturing operations and data centers, this versatile pre-filter protects sensitive equipment while maintaining optimal airflow and system efficiency. The three strategically positioned corner drain holes ensure complete water removal after washing, preventing moisture retention and enabling rapid return to service.
Choosing the HIA402020 washable aluminum mesh filter demonstrates environmental responsibility while reducing your facility’s contribution to landfill waste. Unlike disposable filters that create significant waste annually, this reusable solution eliminates recurring disposal costs and supports corporate sustainability initiatives without compromising filtration performance. The combination of American manufacturing quality, long-term reusability, exceptional temperature resistance, and proven longevity makes this filter the intelligent choice for facility managers who demand both economic value and operational reliability. Invest in proven performance that protects your HVAC equipment, reduces long-term costs, and supports sustainable facility management practices for the next decade and beyond.

