An adjustable cartridge filter for use in a cartridge ventilator hood comprises a filter housing including a front wall having a front wall opening and a back wall spaced from the front wall and having a back wall opening. A flow diverter is disposed obstructively at the back wall opening and extends between the front wall and the back wall, causing a flow restriction between the front wall opening and the back wall opening. The flow diverter is adjustable with respect to the front wall and back wall to change the amounts of the resistance generated by the cartridge and the size of the air passage through the cartridge filter. A rear choke portion may be placed about the housing to be adjustably spaced from the back wall and back wall opening to further control flow resistance.