Air Filter Maintenance

Proper air filter maintenance is one of the most important things you can do to keep your Jetson system running efficiently, quietly, and reliably. Using the correct filter type and replacing it regularly helps maintain comfort, airflow, and overall system performance.

Why Air Filters Matter

Your system’s air filter helps protect internal components while keeping dust and airborne particles out of your home.

A dirty, restrictive, or incorrect filter can:

  • Reduce airflow
  • Increase system run times
  • Lower heating and cooling performance
  • Cause unnecessary strain on the system

Using the right filter — and replacing it regularly — helps your system operate as designed.

How Often to Replace Your Filter

  • Replace your filter every 1–3 months, depending on usage, pets, and household conditions

  • Replace sooner if you notice:

  • Reduced airflow

  • Increased dust in your home

  • Longer or more frequent system run times

Supported Filter Ratings

Jetson systems support up to MERV 11 filters in a 1-inch format.

Important notes:

  • Standard installation: MERV 8 filter
  • Optional upgrade: MERV 11 filter
  • Not supported: MERV 13

MERV 8 vs. MERV 11: What’s the Difference?

Both MERV 8 and MERV 11 filters are supported by Jetson Air systems, but they serve slightly different goals.

MERV 8 (Standard – Recommended for Most Homes)

MERV 8 filters provide a strong balance of airflow, efficiency, and everyday air filtration.

Best for:

  • Most households
  • Maximizing system efficiency and airflow
  • Consistent heating and cooling performance

What it captures:

  • Dust and lint
  • Pollen
  • Mold spores
  • Common household allergens

This is the filter we install by default because it delivers reliable performance with minimal impact on system operation.

MERV 11 (Optional Upgrade)

MERV 11 filters capture smaller particles than MERV 8, offering improved air filtration at the cost of slightly higher airflow resistance.

Best for:

  • Homes with allergy or asthma sensitivities
  • Households with pets
  • Areas with higher outdoor pollution or smoke

What it captures (in addition to MERV 8):

  • Finer dust particles
  • Pet dander
  • Some smoke and smog particles

Things to be aware of:

  • MERV 11 filters restrict airflow more than MERV 8
  • Slightly reduced airflow is expected, especially if the filter becomes dirty
  • Filters may need to be replaced more frequently to maintain performance

Jetson Air systems are designed to handle MERV 11 filters in a 1-inch format, but proper maintenance is important to avoid airflow issues.

Choosing the Right Filter

When purchasing a replacement filter:

  • Find the Model Number of your indoor unit listed on your Jetson quote or invoice, or check the Model Number listed on the Equipment Label on the Jetson indoor unit (see example below).
  • Match the Model Number to the Filter Size listed below
  • Use 1-inch thick filters only
  • Choose MERV 8 (recommended) or MERV 11 (optional upgrade)
  • Avoid high-resistance or “hospital-grade” filters

If you’re unsure which system you have, our support team can confirm your model and filter size.

Filter Sizes by Jetson System Type

Jetson Air Filter Sizes

Model NumberSystem SizeFilter Size (inches)
HP-24IDU-0012 Ton18 × 20 × 1
HP-30IDU-0012.5 Ton18 x 20 x 1
HP-36IDU-0013 Ton18 × 20 × 1
HP-48IDU-0014 Ton20 × 22 × 1
HP-60IDU-0015 Ton20 × 22 × 1

MRCOOL Gen 1 Filter Sizes

Model NumberSystem SizeFilter Size (inches)
CENTRAL-24-HP-MUAH230A002 Ton16 × 20 × 1
CENTRAL-36-HP-MUAH230A003 Ton20 × 20 × 1
CENTRAL-48-HP-MUAH230A004 Ton20 × 20 × 1
CENTRAL-60-HP-MUAH230A005 Ton23 × 20 × 1

MRCOOL Gen 2 Filter Sizes

Model NumberSystem SizeFilter Size (inches)
MVP-24-HP-MUAH-230A00-O2 Ton16 × 20 × 1
MVP-36-HP-MUAH-230A00-O3 Ton20 × 20 × 1
MVP-48-HP-MUAH-230A00-O4 Ton23 × 20 × 1
MVP-60-HP-MUAH-230A00-O5 Ton23 × 20 × 1

How to Remove and Replace Your Air Filter

Replacing your air filter is a simple task and can be done in just a few minutes.

What You’ll Need:

  • A Phillips screwdriver
  • A replacement 1-inch air filter of the correct size

Step 1: Locate the Air Filter Slot

The air filter is located behind the air filter cover on the indoor unit. Look for the removable panel on the front or side of the indoor unit.

Step 2: Remove the Air Filter Cover

For the Jetson Air, unscrew the Air Filter cover using a Phillips screwdriver:

  • Loosen the screws securing the air filter cover
  • Carefully remove the screws and cover and set it aside

For the MRCOOL Heat Pumps, the cover is magnetically attached and can be removed by hand without a screwdriver.

Step 3: Remove the Old Filter

  • Slide the old air filter out of the slot
  • Take note of the airflow direction arrow printed on the filter

If the filter appears very dirty or clogged, replacing it promptly can improve system performance.

Step 4: Install the New Filter

  • Insert the new filter into the slot
  • Make sure the airflow arrow is pointing toward the Jetson indoor unit

This ensures air flows through the filter in the correct direction.

Step 5: Reinstall the Air Filter Cover

  • Place the cover back onto the unit
  • Tighten the screws until the cover is secure

After You’re Done

Once the new filter is installed, your system is ready to run normally. No additional reset or configuration is required.

The air filter cover on the front of the indoor unit, highlighted in green.
The airflow arrow printed on the filter edge, pointing toward the Jetson indoor unit.

How to Find Your Model Number

You will need your model number to confirm the correct air filter size. You can find this on your Jetson quote or invoice, or on the Electrical Label found on the Jetson indoor unit (see the green highlight on the image below).

The electrical label on the Jetson indoor unit with the model number highlighted in green.

Still need help?

Our support team is available Mon–Fri, 7:30am–5:30pm.