Nordic Pure 20x20x5 MERV 13 Plus Carbon Replacement Filter - Odor

In this review the Nordic Pure 20x20x5 MERV 13 Plus Carbon replacement filter is evaluated for homeowners and renters who need stronger particle removal and basic odor control. The bottom line: this filter is best for anyone replacing a nominal 20 x 20 x 5 filter slot who wants improved air quality without changing their system, because the MERV 13 media and activated charcoal layer capture fine particles and common household smells while fitting units that accept an actual 4 3/8 in depth. Measure your existing filter first to confirm the actual size.

Key Features

• Actual Size: The filter measures 19 5/8 x 19 7/8 x 4 3/8 in, so measuring the existing slot ensures a proper fit and avoids returns.
• MERV 13 Filtration: Equivalent to MPR 2200-2400, this level removes fine airborne particulates such as dust, pollen and some allergen carriers for cleaner indoor air.
• Plus Carbon Layer: The pleated filter includes an activated charcoal panel to help trap odorous gases and reduce common household smells like cooking odors.
• OEM Replacement Fit: Designed to replace Honeywell 20x20x4 style filters with a similar actual depth, making it a straightforward swap for compatible systems.
• Made in the USA: Domestic manufacturing provides consistent build quality and materials used in the electrostatically charged synthetic media.

Who It's For

This filter is ideal for homeowners or renters with forced-air HVAC systems that accept a nominal 20 x 20 x 5 slot but require the actual 19 5/8 x 19 7/8 x 4 3/8 in depth. It suits people who want a step up from basic fiberglass or low-MERV filters and who also want modest odor control from a carbon layer.

It is less suitable for systems that require an exact 5 in thick media or for users who need heavy-duty gas/vapor filtration beyond what a flat activated charcoal panel provides; in those cases consider a dedicated gas-phase or deeper carbon solution and always confirm actual size before buying.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good particle capture with MERV 13 level media for improved indoor air quality.
• Integrated carbon layer helps reduce common household odors like cooking and smoke smells.
• Built to match Honeywell-style replacements and manufactured in the USA for consistent construction.
• Easy to install as a one-pack replacement in compatible systems.

Cons

• Actual dimensions are smaller than the nominal size, so measuring is required to ensure proper fit.
• One-pack format means you may need to reorder more frequently than multi-packs if you change filters often.

Specifications

Brand	Nordic Pure
Nominal Size	20 x 20 x 5 in
Actual Size	19 5/8 x 19 7/8 x 4 3/8 in
Filter Rating	MERV 13 (equivalent to MPR 2200-2400)
Type	Pleated Plus Carbon with activated charcoal
Replaces	Honeywell 20x20x4 and similar 4 3/8 in actual depth filters
Country of Origin	Made in the USA

Our Verdict

The Nordic Pure 20x20x5 MERV 13 Plus Carbon filter is a sensible choice for users who need better particle filtration and light odor control without modifying their HVAC system. It offers MERV 13 performance and a carbon layer in a Honeywell-compatible form, representing solid value when the actual size matches the slot; just measure first and expect to reorder periodically if you prefer frequent changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this fit my 20 x 20 x 5 slot?
Measure the existing filter or slot and compare to the actual size 19 5/8 x 19 7/8 x 4 3/8 in to confirm fit.

How much filtration improvement does MERV 13 provide?
MERV 13 captures finer particulates including pollen, dust and many allergen carriers and is equivalent to MPR 2200-2400 for enhanced indoor air quality.

Does the carbon eliminate strong chemical odors?
The flat activated charcoal panel reduces common household smells and VOCs, but it is not a substitute for a dedicated gas-phase filtration system for heavy chemical loads.