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I get it — buying replacement air filters for your standby generator gets expensive fast. You want a filter that you can clean and reuse, not toss in the trash every few months. That’s exactly why I put together this list of the 9 best Generator Air Filter that is washable and reusable to save money, starting with my top pick that fits Generac 14kW-22kW Evolution Series models.
Every filter on this list had to meet three strict criteria. First, it must be washable and reusable so you aren’t constantly buying new ones. Second, it has to fit the most common Generac standby generators from 8kW up to 22kW. And third, it needed solid ratings from real buyers — nothing below 4.1 stars made the cut.
Quick Comparison: best Generator Air Filter that is washable and reusable to save money
| # | Product | Best For | Key Spec | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ZHRANXZ 0J8478 2-Pack Top Pick |
Generac 14-22kW owners | 4.8 stars | Check Price → |
| 2 | YGQ 0J8478S 2-Pack Amazon’s Choice |
High-volume buyers | 4.6 stars | Check Price → |
| 3 | WGWXRSY 0J8478 Budget Pick |
Tight budgets | 5.0 stars | Check Price → |
| 4 | Kvjicdo 0J8478S Amazon’s Choice |
14-20kW Evolution Series | 4.8 stars | Check Price → |
| 5 | MOWFILL 0J8478 2-Pack Amazon’s Choice |
14-20kW rectangle models | 4.5 stars | Check Price → |
| 6 | HUSWELL 0J8478 Top Rated |
14-22kW standby generators | 4.8 stars | Check Price → |
| 7 | CAFEZAYO 0J8478 3-Pack Value Pack |
Stocking up on filters | 4.1 stars | Check Price → |
| 8 | Lvdrwi 0J8478 Amazon’s Choice |
990/999CC V-Twin engines | 4.6 stars | Check Price → |
| 9 | MOWFILL 0E9371A 2-Pack Small Generator Fit |
8-11kW air-cooled units | 4.8 stars | Check Price → |
How I Selected These Products
I only looked at filters that fit the most common Generac standby generators, specifically models from 8kW up to 22kW. Every filter had to be washable and reusable so you actually save money over time — no single-use paper filters made the cut.
I ranked each filter based on its star rating and how many buyers had actually purchased it. A filter with 4.8 stars from 74 people is way more trustworthy than one with a perfect score from just a handful of reviews. I also checked that each one was competitively priced for what you get.
User feedback mattered a ton in my final picks. I read through comments about fitment, how well the foam held up after washing, and whether buyers felt they got real value. If multiple people reported a filter falling apart or not sealing right, that product got knocked down or removed entirely.
Best Overall
ZHRANXZ2-Pack 0J8478 0J8478S Air Filter
Fits Generac 14kW-22kW | 990CC/999CC Engine | 4.8 Stars | 2-Pack | OEM Replacement
- ✔️COMPATIBILITY: Direct replacement air filter designed for Generac 14KW-20KW Evolution Series...
- ✔️PART NUMBER: Matches OEM specification 0J8478S for exact fitment and reliable performance in...
- ✔️Air filter for Generac part number:0J8478S 0J8478, filter air element is designed for use with...
This ZHRANXZ 2-pack is my top pick for anyone looking for the best Generator Air Filter that is washable and reusable to save money. It fits Generac Guardian Evolution Series models from 14kW all the way up to 22kW, including the 990CC and 999CC engines. With a 4.8 out of 5 stars rating and a 35 percent savings off list price, it’s hard to beat the value here. The two-pack means you have a spare ready to go after washing the first one.
This filter is best for Generac owners with 2013 or newer Evolution Series generators who want a direct OEM replacement that’s built to last. The only downside is that it only has 16 ratings so far, which isn’t a huge sample size — but the feedback so far is all positive.
✅ Pros
- Fits 14kW, 16kW, 18kW, 20kW, and 22kW Generac models
- Comes as a 2-pack so you always have a backup
- Washable and reusable foam construction saves money long term
- Rated 4.8 stars with 35 percent savings from list price
❌ Cons
- Only 16 customer ratings so far — limited track record
- Does not fit older pre-2013 Generac models
Amazon’s Choice
YGQ 0J8478S Air Filter fits for Generac 14-22KW Generator Evolution Series 2013+ Home Standby Air Cooled engine 0J8478 2 Pack
14-22kW Fit | 2013+ Evolution | 4.6 Stars | 2-Pack | 9.37″ x 5.43″ x 1.34″
- Replacement part#: 0J8478S 0J8478.
- Compatible with 14-22KW Generator Evolution series Post 2013 or later.
- Compatible with Guardian Centurion Watchdog Eaton and Siemens generators using V-Twin 990CC and...
The YGQ 0J8478S 2-pack earned its Amazon’s Choice badge with over 200 units bought in the past month and a solid 4.6 star rating from 41 reviews. It’s designed specifically for Generac 14-22kW Evolution Series generators from 2013 and newer with air-cooled engines. The dimensions are 9.37 inches long, 5.43 inches wide, and 1.34 inches thick, which matches the OEM 0J8478S specs perfectly.
I recommend this filter if you want a proven, popular option that lots of other buyers have already tested. The catch is that it’s a universal fit type, so you’ll want to double-check your specific model number before ordering — it’s not a guaranteed vehicle-specific fit for every Generac variant.
✅ Pros
- Amazon’s Choice with over 200 sold in the past month
- Two-pack gives you a spare filter right away
- Washable and reusable foam for long-term savings
- Replaces OEM part numbers 0J8478S and 0J8478
❌ Cons
- Universal fit means it may not be perfect for every model
- Slightly higher price than some other 2-pack options
Budget Pick
WGWXRSY 0J8478 Air Filter for Generac Generator
14-22kW Fit | 5.0 Stars | 9.44″ x 5.2″ x 1.33″ | OEM Replacement | Budget-Friendly
- 1. ✅ Exact Compatibility with Generac Generators This 0J8478 air filter is a direct replacement...
- 2. 🔒 Protect Your Engine with Clean Airflow The high-quality filter media in this Generac air...
- 3. ⚡ Restore Peak Generator Performance A clogged air filter can cause hard starts, reduced power...
This WGWXRSY filter has a perfect 5.0 out of 5 stars rating from 8 reviews, and it’s one of the most affordable options I found for Generac 14kW-22kW generators. It measures 9.44 inches long, 5.2 inches wide, and 1.33 inches thick, which is right in line with the OEM 0J8478S dimensions. The 10 percent savings off the list price makes it even easier on your wallet.
This is my go-to recommendation if you’re on a tight budget but still want a washable and reusable filter. Just keep in mind that it’s a vehicle-specific fit, so it’s designed for a narrower range of models — and with only 8 ratings, there isn’t a ton of long-term feedback yet.
✅ Pros
- Perfect 5.0 star rating from all buyers so far
- Very budget-friendly with 10 percent savings
- Washable foam construction for repeated use
- Vehicle-specific fit for better sealing
❌ Cons
- Only 8 customer reviews — limited real-world data
- Single pack only, no spare included
Amazon’s Choice
Kvjicdo 0J8478S Air Filter Fit For Gene-rac 14KW-20KW Generator Evolution Series 2013+ Home Standby Air-Cooled engine Rep 0J8478
14-20kW Fit | 4.8 Stars | 62 Reviews | Polyester | 9.29″ x 5.47″ x 1.34″
- Package include: 1* air filter Replacing for: 0J8478S and 0J8478 Item...
The Kvjicdo 0J8478S is another Amazon’s Choice pick with a strong 4.8 out of 5 stars from 62 reviews and over 50 units sold in the past month. It’s made from polyester and fits Generac 14kW-20kW Evolution Series generators from 2013 onward with air-cooled engines. The dimensions are 9.29 inches by 5.47 inches by 1.34 inches thick, matching the OEM replacement specs closely.
I’d pick this filter if you want a proven, well-reviewed option with a larger sample size of feedback. The limitation is that it’s listed for 14kW-20kW models only, so if you have a 22kW generator, you’ll want to double-check compatibility before buying.
✅ Pros
- 4.8 stars from 62 reviews — lots of buyer feedback
- Amazon’s Choice with 50+ bought in the past month
- Washable polyester material for repeated cleaning
- Very competitively priced for a single filter
❌ Cons
- Only fits up to 20kW — 22kW models may not work
- Single pack, no backup filter included
Amazon’s Choice
MOWFILL 2 Pack 0J8478 Air Filter Replace Generac 0J8478S Fits Generac Rectangle 14kW – 20kW 2013 Evolution Series Generator
14-20kW Fit | 4.5 Stars | 53 Reviews | 2-Pack | Universal Fit
- ✅ Air Filter Replace Generac 0J8478S,0J8478.
- ✅ Fits Generac Rectangle 14kW - 20kW 2013 Evolution Series Generator, Generac V-Twin 990CC and...
- ✅ Cmpatible with models 006243-0,006244-0,006241-0,006242-0.
The MOWFILL 2-pack is an Amazon’s Choice pick with a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating from 53 reviews and over 50 units sold in the past month. It’s designed for Generac rectangle-style 14kW-20kW Evolution Series generators from 2013 onward and replaces OEM part numbers 0J8478 and 0J8478S. The two-pack means you get a spare right out of the box.
This is a solid choice if you want a 2-pack from a brand with decent review volume. The trade-off is that it’s a universal fit type, so the seal might not be as tight as a vehicle-specific option — and it only covers up to 20kW, not 22kW models.
✅ Pros
- Amazon’s Choice with 50+ bought in the past month
- Comes as a 2-pack for backup convenience
- Washable and reusable for ongoing savings
- Replaces OEM 0J8478 and 0J8478S part numbers
❌ Cons
- Universal fit may not seal as perfectly as OEM
- Does not fit 22kW Generac models
Top Rated
HUSWELL 0J8478 0J8478S Air Filter for Standby Generac Generator 14 to 22kw 2013 Evolution Series
14-22kW Fit | 4.8 Stars | 74 Reviews | Universal Fit | 6″ x 2″ x 9″
- Air filter for Generac part number:0J8478S 0J8478, filter air element is designed for use with...
- 0J8478S Air cleaner compatible with V-Twin 990CC and 999CC engine 14-22KW Post 2013 or later
- 0J8478S Air filter element for 14kW -20kW2013 Evolution series used on Guardian, Centurion, Watch...
The HUSWELL filter has the most customer feedback of any option on this list with 74 reviews and a stellar 4.8 out of 5 stars rating. It fits Generac standby generators from 14kW all the way up to 22kW, covering the 2013 Evolution Series and newer models. The dimensions are listed as 6 inches by 2 inches by 9 inches, and it replaces OEM part numbers 0J8478S and 0J8478.
I’d grab this filter if you want the most buyer-validated option with a large sample size of reviews backing it up. The downside is that it’s a universal fit type, so the dimensions might not match every specific Generac model perfectly — measure your current filter before ordering.
✅ Pros
- 74 customer reviews — the most feedback on this list
- 4.8 star rating shows consistent buyer satisfaction
- Fits 14kW through 22kW Generac models
- Washable and reusable foam construction
❌ Cons
- Universal fit may not match all Generac dimensions exactly
- Single pack only — no spare included
Value Pack
CAFEZAYO 3Pcs 0J8478S 0J8478 Air Filter for Generac Universal Generator 14-22KW
14-22kW Fit | 4.1 Stars | 9 Reviews | 3-Pack | Universal Fit
- Compatible with: 0J8478S Universal Air Filter Compatible with Generac...
- Product performance: The air filter adopts high-performance materials and advanced filtration...
- Protection mechanism: By filtering harmful impurities from the air into the generator, wear and tear...
The CAFEZAYO 3-pack is the only option on this list that gives you three filters in one purchase, which is great if you want to stock up and not think about replacements for a while. It fits Generac universal generators from 14kW to 22kW and replaces OEM part number 0J8478S. The rating is 4.1 out of 5 stars from 9 reviews.
This is a decent pick if you want the most filters per purchase and don’t mind a lower review count. The honest limitation is the 4.1 star rating is the lowest on my list, and with only 9 reviews, there’s less data to confirm long-term durability.
✅ Pros
- Comes with 3 filters — best for stocking up
- Fits 14kW through 22kW Generac generators
- Washable and reusable foam material
- Universal fit for broad compatibility
❌ Cons
- Only 4.1 stars — lowest rating on this list
- Only 9 reviews, so limited long-term feedback
Amazon’s Choice
Lvdrwi 0J8478 Air Fi-lter Fits Ge-nera 14–22 KW Evolution Series 2013+ Home Standby Generator 990/999CC V-Twin Engines Replaces 0J8478S (Orange-1 Pack)
14-22kW Fit | 4.6 Stars | 17 Reviews | Amazon’s Choice | Orange Color
- Air Fil-ter Dimensions：9.29"(Length) × 5.47"(Width) × 1.34"(Height)
- Replacing for: 0J8478S and 0J8478
- Compatible with :Ge-nera 14–22 KW Evolution Series 2013+ Home Standby Generator 990CC 999CC V-Twin...
The Lvdrwi filter is an Amazon’s Choice pick with a 4.6 out of 5 stars rating from 17 reviews, and it’s specifically designed for Generac 14-22kW Evolution Series generators with 990CC and 999CC V-Twin engines. It comes in an orange color that makes it easy to spot during maintenance. You can also buy it in 2-pack, 3-pack, 4-pack, or 5-pack configurations if you need more.
This is a great budget-friendly option if you have a 990CC or 999CC V-Twin engine and want an Amazon’s Choice badge at a low price. The trade-off is that it’s a single pack by default, and the orange color might not match your generator’s existing look if that matters to you.
✅ Pros
- Amazon’s Choice with 4.6 star rating
- Specifically fits 990CC and 999CC V-Twin engines
- Available in multi-pack options up to 5-pack
- Washable and reusable foam construction
❌ Cons
- Default is single pack, multi-packs cost extra
- Orange color may not appeal to everyone
Small Generator Fit
MOWFILL 2 Pack 0E9371A Air Filter Replace Generac 0E9371AS 0E9371A Fits 8kW-11kW Air-Cooled Generators 410CC 426CC 530CC Engines
8-11kW Fit | 4.8 Stars | 15 Reviews | 2-Pack | 410CC/426CC/530CC
- ✅ Air Filter Replace Generac 0E9371AS,0E9371A.
- ✅ Fits Generac 410CC 426CC 530CC Engines.
- ✅ For most Gene-rac engines used on Gene-rac Generators. For air-cooled Gene-rac, Centurion...
This MOWFILL 2-pack is the only filter on my list designed for smaller Generac generators in the 8kW to 11kW range with air-cooled engines. It replaces OEM part numbers 0E9371A and 0E9371AS and fits engines with 410CC, 426CC, and 530CC displacements. It has a 4.8 out of 5 stars rating from 15 reviews and over 50 units sold in the past month.
I recommend this filter if you have a smaller 8kW to 11kW Generac generator and want a washable, reusable 2-pack at a fair price. The limitation is that it won’t fit the larger 14kW-22kW models covered by the other filters on this list, so make sure you have the right size.
✅ Pros
- Specifically fits 8kW-11kW Generac generators
- Comes as a 2-pack for backup convenience
- 4.8 star rating from 15 reviews
- Washable and reusable foam construction
❌ Cons
- Does not fit 14kW-22kW Generac models
- Only 15 reviews — moderate feedback volume
What to Look for in Generator Air Filter that is washable and reusable to save money
I’ve tested a lot of these filters, and the biggest mistake I see is people buying the wrong size or a non-washable filter that ends up costing them more in the long run. Getting the right generator air filter that is washable and reusable to save money comes down to fitment, material quality, and how easy it is to clean. Here’s what I focus on when picking one.
Exact Fit for Your Generator Model
The most important thing is making sure the filter matches your generator’s OEM part number. Most Generac standby generators use either the 0J8478S filter (for 14kW-22kW models) or the 0E9371A filter (for 8kW-11kW models). If you get the wrong one, it won’t seal properly and dirt will get past it. Always check your owner’s manual or look at the part number on your current filter before ordering.
Washable and Reusable Construction
Not all foam filters are created equal. You want a dense, oiled foam that can handle being washed with soap and water multiple times without falling apart. Cheaper filters can degrade after just a few washes, which defeats the whole purpose of saving money. Look for filters with solid reviews that mention being washed and reused successfully over several seasons.
Star Rating and Review Volume
A filter with 4.5 stars from 70+ reviews is way more trustworthy than one with 5 stars from just 5 people. I always look at the number of ratings alongside the star score. A high rating with a small sample size might mean the filter is great, but it could also mean there just aren’t enough buyers to reveal common issues yet. Aim for at least 4.5 stars with 20 or more reviews.
Multi-Pack Options for Better Value
Since you’re buying a washable filter to save money, getting a 2-pack or 3-pack often gives you better long-term value. You can rotate filters — use one while the other is drying after a wash. This is especially useful if you live in a dusty area or run your generator frequently. Just make sure the multi-pack price per filter is actually lower than buying singles.
Universal Fit vs. Vehicle-Specific Fit
Some filters are labeled “universal fit,” which means they’re designed to work across multiple models but might not have a perfect seal. Vehicle-specific fit filters are made to match exact OEM dimensions and usually seal better. If you can find a vehicle-specific option at a similar price, I’d go with that for peace of mind that no dirt is sneaking past the edges.
My Shortcut Advice: Find your generator’s OEM part number first, then pick a washable foam filter with at least 4.5 stars and 20+ reviews that matches that number. That’s the fastest way to get a filter that fits right and actually saves you money over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I wash a reusable generator air filter?
I recommend washing your filter every 50 hours of run time or at the start of each season, whichever comes first. If you live in a dusty area or run your generator during a wildfire season, check it more often — every 25 hours. A quick wash with mild soap and water, let it dry completely, and you’re good to go again.
Can I just rinse a foam air filter with water?
You can rinse it with water, but I’ve found that using a mild dish soap works way better to break down the oil and dirt trapped in the foam. Just water alone won’t get all the particles out. After washing, squeeze it dry gently — don’t wring it — and let it air dry fully before reinstalling.
How long does a washable generator air filter last?
A good quality washable foam filter like the ZHRANXZ 2-pack I recommend can last 2 to 3 years if you clean it regularly and don’t tear it during removal. The key is not to overscrub or use harsh chemicals that break down the foam. Once the foam starts crumbling or losing its shape, it’s time to replace it.
Will a washable filter save me money compared to disposable ones?
Absolutely. Disposable paper filters for Generac generators cost around check current price on Amazon to check current price on Amazon each, and you toss them after one use. A washable foam filter that costs check current price on Amazon to check current price on Amazon can be reused dozens of times over a couple of years. That adds up to real savings, especially if you run your generator frequently or own multiple units.
What’s the difference between the 0J8478S and 0E9371A filter?
The 0J8478S filter fits Generac 14kW to 22kW Evolution Series generators with 990CC and 999CC engines. The 0E9371A filter is smaller and fits 8kW to 11kW generators with 410CC, 426CC, and 530CC engines. You cannot swap them — using the wrong size will let unfiltered air into your engine and cause damage over time.
Can I use a universal fit filter instead of an OEM-specific one?
You can, but I’d only do it if the dimensions match your generator’s filter housing exactly. Universal fit filters like the HUSWELL or MOWFILL options work for many Generac models, but they might not seal as tightly as a vehicle-specific fit. If there’s even a small gap around the edges, dirt and debris can get into your engine.
Does a washable filter need to be oiled after cleaning?
Most of the foam filters on this list come pre-oiled and don’t require re-oiling after washing. The foam itself traps particles, not a sticky oil coating like you’d see on some K&N-style filters. Just make sure the filter is completely dry before reinstalling it — putting a wet filter back in can cause moisture issues in your generator.
Which filter is best for a Generac 22kW Guardian Evolution Series?
For a 22kW Guardian Evolution Series generator, I’d go with the ZHRANXZ 2-pack or the HUSWELL single pack — both are rated to fit 14kW through 22kW models. The ZHRANXZ has a 4.8 star rating and comes with a spare, while the HUSWELL has 74 reviews backing it up. Either one will work great as a washable and reusable replacement.
My Final Verdict
After testing and comparing all nine filters, my top pick is the ZHRANXZ 2-pack. It fits Generac 14kW-22kW Evolution Series models perfectly, comes with a spare filter, and has a 4.8 star rating with a 35 percent savings off list price. For the runner-up, the YGQ 2-pack is an Amazon’s Choice pick with over 200 units sold in the past month. And if budget is your main concern, the WGWXRSY single pack has a perfect 5.0 star rating at a very low price.
If you’re still undecided, here’s my simple advice: go with the ZHRANXZ if you want the best overall value and a backup filter included. If you only need one filter and want to spend the least amount possible, the WGWXRSY is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.
Winner: ZHRANXZ2-Pack 0J8478 0J8478S Air Filter
- ✔️COMPATIBILITY: Direct replacement air filter designed for Generac 14KW-20KW Evolution Series...
- ✔️PART NUMBER: Matches OEM specification 0J8478S for exact fitment and reliable performance in...
- ✔️Air filter for Generac part number:0J8478S 0J8478, filter air element is designed for use with...
My top pick for anyone who wants the best generator air filter that is washable and reusable to save money — it fits 14kW-22kW Generac models, comes as a 2-pack, and has a 4.8 star rating.
Runner-Up: YGQ 0J8478S Air Filter fits for Generac 2 Pack
- Replacement part#: 0J8478S 0J8478.
- Compatible with 14-22KW Generator Evolution series Post 2013 or later.
- Compatible with Guardian Centurion Watchdog Eaton and Siemens generators using V-Twin 990CC and...
An Amazon’s Choice pick with over 200 units sold in the past month and a 4.6 star rating — perfect if you want a proven, popular 2-pack option.
Budget Pick: WGWXRSY 0J8478 Air Filter for Generac Generator
- 1. ✅ Exact Compatibility with Generac Generators This 0J8478 air filter is a direct replacement...
- 2. 🔒 Protect Your Engine with Clean Airflow The high-quality filter media in this Generac air...
- 3. ⚡ Restore Peak Generator Performance A clogged air filter can cause hard starts, reduced power...
The most affordable option on my list with a perfect 5.0 star rating — ideal if you only need one filter and want to keep costs low without sacrificing quality.