The 12x24x2 Aerostar measures 11 3/8" x 23 3/8" x 1 3/4" - the 2-inch nominal depth means a longer service life than a standard 1-inch and noticeably lower static pressure across the filter, which is easier on your blower motor. Two-inch filters were standard in older residential systems and remain common in light commercial applications. The deeper pleats hold roughly twice the debris of a 1-inch equivalent before reaching the same pressure drop. MERV 8, 11, and 13 options cover the same residential and small-commercial filtration range. MERV 8 is your baseline for standard dust and pollen. MERV 11 covers pet households and most allergy concerns. MERV 13 handles fine particulates including smoke, bacteria, and virus carriers - run this grade if anyone in the home has asthma or if wildfire smoke is a recurring problem. The pleated electrostatic media is manufactured by Con-Air Industries in Orlando, Florida. Expect a service life of 4 to 6 months on MERV 8 and 11 in normal residential use, dropping to 2 to 4 months for MERV 13 or in heavier-load environments like homes with multiple pets or active cooking schedules.