McDonald’s Case Study: Washable HVAC Filters & <9-Month ROI

McDonald’s Case Study

MCDONALD’S STREAMLINES OPERATIONS AND CUTS COSTS WITH K&N REUSABLE FILTERS

In 2024, McDonald’s adopted the K&N Washable, Reusable HVAC Filters in select high-volume restaurant locations within the U.S., aiming to increase operational efficiency, reduce maintenance labor and support sustainability goals. Known for efficiency and consistency across thousands of locations, McDonald’s facility teams sought a filtration solution that aligned with both their cost-saving initiatives and maintenance goals.

DECREASED LABOR COSTS

Filter changeouts reduced from every two weeks to once a month

ROI UNDER 9 MONTHS

Lower maintenance and energy costs led to full ROI in less than 9 months

ENERGY SAVINGS

Improved differential pressure reduced HVAC strain and power consumption

SUSTAINABILITY GAINS

Less landfill waste and better alignment with McDonald’s sustainability goals

By transitioning from traditional disposable filters to K&N’s high-flow, washable technology, McDonald’s saw immediate operational benefits. Labor costs decreased significantly as maintenance teams were able to extend filter change-out cycles from every two weeks to once a month. The simplified maintenance process allowed teams to reallocate labor to other high- priority areas, while the reduced volume of discarded filters contributed to the company’s broader sustainability efforts. The shift also yielded a clear financial return, with McDonald’s realizing full ROI in under nine months.

Project

Multinational Fast Food Provider K&N Bi-weekly filter costs/changes

Location

Ontario Mills, CA - Corona, CA - Pomona, CA

Use case

Franchisee Owner Operated Buildings / Locations. Multiple high traffic fast food restaurants

Equipment

Average of 14 filters per location across multiple air handlers

The keys to success

McDonald’s facility managers now report smoother operations, fewer interruptions, and long-term savings – proving K&N filters are more than just sustainable – they’re smart business.

With proven performance, K&N is now the trusted filter solution at select McDonald’s locations nationwide.

TRANSFORM YOUR FACILITY

FREE FILTERs FOR YOUR PILOT

Air filtration without hesitation. To demonstrate our confidence, K&N Global Filtration will supply FREE filters to jump start a pilot program in your facility.

Inquire below and connect with our Product Specialist for more details on the free pilot program and how to get started.