A HEPA-quality filter used in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can be a great way to improve indoor air quality by filtering out the small particles of greatest health concern. HEPA filters are not perfect, however. Hazardous contaminants, such as bacteria and viruses, can be less than 0.3 microns in size, as well as some allergens. In almost every home or building, placing HEPA filters will improve air quality and remove almost all pollutants, but it still won't be 100% effective.
HEPA filters are effective at removing most allergens, dust, pollen and mold from the air. However, they will not eliminate viruses or VOCs. Mold can grow inside fibers, so it's essential to replace the filter regularly every 12 to 18 months or when needed. People who have allergies or asthma can benefit significantly from using a HEPA filter and an air purifier.
This high rate of particulate capture comes at a cost that HEPA filters have more resistance to airflow than MERV filters. But what does HEPA mean? And are HEPA filters really preferable to other filters? HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. Before you buy your next HVAC filter, make sure you understand how it affects indoor air quality and energy efficiency. When you learn about HEPA filters or research devices such as air purifiers, you're likely to find microns mentioned.
This means that there is a substantial difference from a true full grade HEPA filter and what can be labeled as HEPA type or HEPA type. To keep your family safe on an ongoing basis, it's important that you keep control of your household HEPA filter. HEPA filters can help and improve your cooling and heating system by capturing dust and dirt, preventing them from developing inside your system and home. If you or someone else in your household has allergies or asthma, a HEPA filter will help reduce allergens.
Disposable filters are made of pleated paper or polyester that provide a larger surface area for filtering. If someone in your household suffers from allergies or asthma, investing in a household HEPA filter will help reduce and eliminate airborne particles that cause or may worsen symptoms. If people in your household or family have needs related to asthma or allergies, HEPA filtration for an air system can be an important benefit. A HEPA filter uses coarse-grained, pleated media to remove more than 99 percent of airborne particles below a 0.3 micron size, according to Canstar Blue.
If you use a HEPA filter in your home, but you're still worried about certain contaminants, you can compensate with other methods.
