A true HEPA filtration device or filter is the only type of HEPA filter that truly meets the DOE standard for HEPA filtration, has the highest efficiency, and reaches the 99.97% threshold. If the HEPA filter does not meet the DOE standards for HEPA filtration, it is not considered a true HEPA filter. ULPA filters trap more small particles than HEPA filters. ULPA filters are 99.999% effective at removing submicron particles of 0.12 microns or more in diameter, while HEPA filters are 99.97% effective at removing particles of 0.3 microns in diameter or more.
HEPA filters can be combined with pre-filters to trap larger particles before they come into contact with the main filter. HEPA stands for high efficiency particulate air (filter or filtration). A true HEPA product is an air filter that can trap tiny particles up to 0.3 microns in size with an efficiency of 99.97 percent. This is effective enough to remove most particles from the air.
HEPA filters are among the most used and effective filters in air quality appliances. Although there are a few different types of HEPA filters, medical HEPA filters are the most effective. They can remove up to 99.995% of particles of 0.1 micron in diameter or larger. Manufacturers of high-quality HEPA filters voluntarily test and certify that their filters meet DOE standards, labeling them as “absolute HEPA” or “true HEPA”.
HEPA and ULPA filters are designed for use in a variety of applications, such as industrial vacuums to remove asbestos, remove toner dust from office equipment, prevent the spread of airborne bacteria in surgical operating rooms, and other crucial medical air filtration applications. While they may be good filters, they haven't been tested or certified to determine if they meet DOE standards for HEPA filters. Although ULPA filters trap more and smaller particles, they are often less effective in reducing the total concentration of particles in a typical room than the same air filtration system equipped with HEPA filters. Users should not assume that an air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter will fully protect them from infection.
Although they do not remove as high a percentage of airborne particulates as HEPA filters, higher-efficiency standard air filters can significantly improve indoor air quality and, at the same time, protect air conditioning equipment. According to the EPA Guide to Home Air Purifiers, the use of HEPA filter air purifiers in portable air purifiers and HVAC systems can help reduce symptoms of allergies and asthma. While True HEPA filters are rated H10 to H12, HEPA filters considered for medical use are classified as H13 filters. Normal HEPA filter air purifiers are the least recommended, since particles of 1.99 microns or smaller are not removed.
HEPA filters have a lifespan of up to ten years, while the typical lifecycle of a ULPA filter ranges from five to eight years. In conclusion, investing in a HEPA filtration system, if properly sized for the space, will go a long way to providing clean air and peace of mind to everyone inside the building. Yes, by using HEPA filters in both vacuums and air purifiers, the user can reduce the amount of airborne allergens and pollutants in the home. Traditional air filters, except those at the lower end of efficiency ratings, also filter small particles from the air.
These complex HEPA filters exceed the typical MERV rating scale, making them the most effective and popular choice for many industries. The Department of Energy (DOE) specifies that the HEPA filters used by DOE contractors must be able to remove 99.7 percent of airborne particulates of 0.3 microns or more, but there are no federal or national regulations for the consumer industry.
