HEPA is a type of pleated mechanical air filter. It is an acronym for "high efficiency particulate air [filter]" (as officially defined by the U.S. Dept.
A HEPA (High Efficiency Particle Arresting) filter can remove the majority of harmful particles, including mold spores, dust, dust mites, pet dander and other irritating allergens from the air.
The first is related to their cost. A high-quality HEPA filter can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars up to several thousand depending on the size and model and the area to be covered. Secondly, they need to be regularly maintained and replaced in order to keep them working properly.
Very small particles with an electrostatic charge will be attracted to the filtration material due to electrostatic attraction. Small charged particles are drawn out of the streamline to be imbedded in the filter. This further increases the ability of these filters to remove extremely small particles.
"HEPA-type" filters may capture larger particles but are not effective against the finer particulates that true HEPA filters excel at removing.
Studies have shown HEPA filters remove between 99.97% to 99.99% of mold spores from the air when used properly. Any mold spores that get trapped in the filter become permanently stuck and unable to spread and grow into mold colonies.
HEPA filters will not remove most viruses, because they are simply too small. HEPA filters will also not remove VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, as they are also too small. Still, HEPA filter technology can be combined with other technologies that will remove these things from your air too.
Part of the reason that HEPA filters are so rarely used in HVAC systems is that they are extremely restrictive in terms of airflow. This means that the system needs to be extremely powerful and use additional fans in order to properly draw air through the HEPA filter and circulate it throughout the room or building.
Many people think that switching it off during the night or when they're not present is a logical energy-saving measure, but it is recommended to keep it running constantly. Once you turn off your air purifier, the air quickly becomes contaminated again with mold, dust, dander, and other pollutants present in the air.
Excessive use of air purifiers can also dry out the air in our homes. Many, especially those using HEPA filters, can lower humidity levels, resulting in dry skin, irritated sinuses, and breathing discomfort. People may notice more coughing or throat irritation due to the lack of moisture in the atmosphere.
The average lifespan of HEPA filters can vary significantly depending on their usage, environment, quality, and maintenance, as previously discussed. However, as a general guideline, HEPA filters typically last between 6 months to 3 years before needing replacement.
Both HEPA and ULPA filters use a combination of three main methods to trap contaminants: diffusion, interception, and inertial impaction. ULPA filters trap more and smaller particulate matter than HEPA filters.
Wash your HEPA filter with warm water and allow it to dry if your model specifically states that water cleaning is safe. You can also soak your filter in hot water if it is extremely dirty. Clean non-washable, permanent HEPA filters using a vacuum to remove dust and debris.
For the low, low price of about $40, you can make your own HEPA filter. Super simple. All you need is a 20" Box Fan, a 20" x 20" x 1" MERV 13 (or higher) HVAC Filter, and some blue painters tape!
HEPA filters are used within all biological safety cabinets to prevent airborne pathogens released at the work surface from entering the occupied environment.
Regardless of where you live, the good news is, air purifiers do not use a lot of electricity to operate.
HEPA (high efficiency particulate air [filter]) is a type of pleated mechanical air filter. This type of air filter can theoretically remove at least 99.97% of any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns (µm), which can include dust, pollen, mold, and bacteria.
Keep your device away from moisture or areas with high humidity. Place your device at least 6 inches from walls, furniture, or other items while in use. Place your air purifier near the most likely source of indoor air pollution. Consider investing in an air purifier that shuts off automatically with a timer.
Medical professionals suggest prioritizing maintaining a clean home and frequently sanitizing frequently used surfaces. Air purifiers should just be an accessory to your cleaning routine, not a priority.
Air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters offer an effective solution for reducing indoor dust levels and improving overall air quality.
Can One Air Purifier Work for Multiple Rooms? In general, yes—one air purifier can work for multiple rooms. However, it's important that the unit's capacity fits the layout of your home and is specific to the type of air pollutants you're targeting.
While hard water cannot be filtered, it can be softened to significantly improve your water quality, protect your plumbing system, reduce your time spent cleaning, and more.
ULPA filters are used because they have more dense filter media than HEPA filters. This allows them to catch more particles and catch the smaller particles.
HEPA-type permanent filter captures particles as small as 2 microns so you can breathe comfortably. Service light indicator let's you know when the filter needs to be cleaned.