When it comes to air filtration, the gold standard is a True HEPA filter. A True HEPA filter is certified by the Department of Energy (DOE) to remove up to 99.97 percent of contaminants with a size of 0.3 microns or larger from the air. This means that HEPA filters are effective at removing allergens, dust, pollen, mold, pet dander, and dust mites from the air. A HEPA-type filter, on the other hand, only has an efficiency rating of 99% and is effective at capturing particles of 0.2 microns in size.
While this may seem more impressive than True HEPA's 0.3 effectiveness, it's not. To provide the cleanest and safest air, you want to get the best filter for your business, office space, school, health center, organization, or home. True HEPA filters work by using a process called interception. This occurs when particles enter the fibers of a HEPA filter and remain attached to the fibers.
Filters are typically made of paper, fiber (often fiberglass), or mesh, and require regular replacement to maintain efficiency. It's important to note that simply using a HEPA-type bag or adding a HEPA filter to a standard vacuum doesn't mean you'll get true HEPA performance. To ensure that you are getting the best air filtration possible, make sure that your vacuum cleaner is true HEPA certified. In addition to capturing large particles such as dust and pollen, True HEPA filters are also effective at capturing smaller particles such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and radon that can accumulate in adhesives, paints or cleaning products.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that the functionality of air purifiers is limited in terms of filtering gases and that you must replace filters frequently for optimal functionality, usually about every three months. We certainly recommend checking the air filters in your home or building, but whether a HEPA filter is needed may depend on the specific situation. And if you need to reopen your business during the COVID pandemic, you need to trust that the filter inside your air filtration system will clean the air efficiently. In conclusion, True HEPA filters are the most effective way to ensure clean air in your home or business. They are certified by the DOE to remove up to 99.97 percent of contaminants with a size of 0.3 microns or larger from the air and are effective at capturing smaller particles such as VOCs and radon.
