Metal or Paper Filter for Aprilaire 560 Humidifier?
The Aprilaire 560 is one of the most reliable bypass humidifiers ever built, but its performance depends entirely on the "Water Panel" or evaporator pad inside. When shopping for replacements, you will likely encounter the choice between the original Aprilaire 35 metal filter and various aftermarket paper/clay-coated filters. Here is the breakdown of which one you should choose for your home improvement needs.
1. The Standard: Aprilaire 35 Metal Water Panel
The official Aprilaire 35 filter is constructed from expanded aluminum that has been coated with a specialized porous clay-like material. This is often what people mean when they refer to the "metal" filter.
- How it Works: The aluminum provides a rigid structural frame, while the clay coating holds water like a sponge, allowing the warm furnace air to evaporate the moisture.
- Pros: Excellent structural integrity; it won't sag or collapse under high air pressure. The antimicrobial coating helps prevent mold growth.
- Cons: Once the clay coating wears off or becomes clogged with calcium deposits, the aluminum alone cannot hold water, and efficiency drops to zero.
2. The Alternative: Paper or Synthetic Filters
Many aftermarket brands offer "paper" filters for the Aprilaire 560. These are typically made of a cellulose-based material, often reinforced with a synthetic mesh.
- How it Works: These filters work similarly to a swamp cooler pad, using capillary action to draw water up through the fibers.
- Pros: Often cheaper than the OEM metal panels. In very dry climates with low-pressure water, paper can sometimes hold more water initially than a degraded metal panel.
- Cons: Durability is the main issue. Paper filters tend to sag over time as they become saturated, which can lead to "blow-by" where air bypasses the filter entirely. They also tend to harbor bacteria and odors more easily than clay-coated aluminum.
Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | Aprilaire 35 (Metal/Clay) | Aftermarket Paper |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Slit & Expanded Aluminum | Cellulose / Fiber |
| Evaporation Rate | High (Industry Standard) | Variable (Often lower) |
| Rigidity | Excellent | Prone to sagging |
| Lifespan | 1 Heating Season | 4-6 Months |
Why You Should Stick with the Aprilaire 35 (Metal)
For the Aprilaire 560, the Aprilaire 35 Metal Water Panel is almost always the superior choice. This humidifier is a "bypass" model, meaning it relies on the pressure differential of your HVAC system. A rigid metal frame ensures that the air is forced through the moisture-laden clay, rather than around it. Paper filters often lack the "wicking" efficiency required for the high-velocity air produced by modern variable-speed furnaces.
Maintenance Tips for Maximum SEO Performance
When to Replace
Regardless of the material, you must replace your Aprilaire 560 filter at least once per year. In areas with hard water, you may need to replace it twice—once at the start of the heating season and once in the middle of winter. Hard water (calcium and lime) will crust over the filter, preventing it from absorbing water.
Check the Orifice
If you replace the filter and still have low humidity, check the small plastic orifice in the water supply line. These often clog with sediment, preventing water from reaching the top of your new metal or paper filter.
Conclusion
While paper filters are available, the Aprilaire 35 metal/clay-coated water panel is the best fit for the Aprilaire 560. It offers the best balance of structural strength and moisture output, ensuring your home stays comfortable and your wood floors and furniture are protected from the effects of dry winter air.
