Nordic Pure 20x20x5 Honeywell Replacement MERV 12 Plus Carbon - Odor

In this review the Nordic Pure 20x20x5 Honeywell replacement filter is judged as a practical, midtier furnace filter for homeowners who want stronger particle capture and basic odor control. The bottom line: it is best for someone replacing a Honeywell 20x20x4 style filter who needs a MERV 12 level of filtration and an activated carbon layer to help reduce common household smells. The review highlights fit considerations, construction, and real-world performance so you can decide if this single-pack replacement meets your needs.

Key Features

• Actual dimensions: The filter lists a nominal 20 x 20 x 5 size but gives an exact actual size of 19 5/8 x 19 7/8 x 4 3/8 in, which helps ensure a correct fit when compared to your current filter.
• MERV 12 filtration: The media provides higher particle capture than basic fiberglass filters and is comparable to MPR 1500-1900 for better removal of dust and airborne particulates.
• Plus carbon layer: An activated carbon layer is fused to the pleated media to attract and retain odorous gases and common household VOCs, helping reduce smells like burned popcorn.
• Replaces Honeywell 20x20x4: Intended as a replacement for Honeywell filters and other units that use a similar actual depth of 4 3/8 in, making it compatible with many existing housings.
• Made in the USA: The filter is manufactured domestically, which may reassure buyers focused on origin and manufacturing standards.

Who It's For

The Nordic Pure 20x20x5 is aimed at homeowners and renters with HVAC systems that accept a near-20 x 20 in filter who want improved air quality over basic filters and some odor reduction from carbon. It suits anyone who needs a direct replacement for a Honeywell 20x20x4 style filter or who prefers a pleated, higher-MERV option for seasonal allergy management.

It is not ideal for systems that require an exact 5 in deep filter or for users who cannot measure their current filter; customers should measure their existing filter and compare to the listed actual size of 19 5/8 x 19 7/8 x 4 3/8 in before purchasing. Those needing heavy chemical adsorption or medical-grade filtration should look for specialized products.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Effective particle reduction with a MERV 12 rating that rivals MPR 1500-1900, improving indoor air quality.
• Built-in carbon layer helps control household odors and common VOCs for fresher indoor air.
• Sturdy pleated construction and easy to install as an OEM-style replacement in compatible housings.

Cons

• The actual dimensions are smaller than the nominal size, so buyers must measure existing filters to avoid fit issues.

Specifications

Nominal size	20 x 20 x 5 in H
Actual size	19 5/8 x 19 7/8 x 4 3/8 in
MERV rating	MERV 12 (equivalent to MPR 1500-1900)
Filter type	Pleated plus carbon (dual material with activated carbon)
Replaces	Honeywell 20x20x4 and similar filters with 4 3/8 in actual depth
Pack size	1 pack
Origin	Made in the USA

Our Verdict

The Nordic Pure 20x20x5 replacement is a sensible choice for homeowners who need a MERV 12 pleated filter with some odor control and who will confirm fit by measuring their current filter. It delivers solid dust capture and noticeable reduction of household smells, offering good value as an OEM-style single-pack replacement when the actual size matches the system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this filter fit my 20 x 20 x 4 slot?
Measure your current filter and compare to the actual size of 19 5/8 x 19 7/8 x 4 3/8 in; if your filter's actual depth and face dimensions are similar, it will fit.

Does the carbon layer remove strong chemicals?
The activated carbon helps attract and hold common odorous gases and VOCs for improved smell control, but it is not designed for industrial-strength chemical removal.

Is this the same filtration as MPR 1500-1900?
The manufacturer lists the MERV 12 media as equivalent to MPR 1500-1900, providing similar particle capture performance.