HEPA Filtration

What I need to know about HEPA Filtration

HEPA is a type of pleated mechanical air filter. It’s an acronym for “high-efficiency particulate air [filter]” as officially defined by the U.S. Department of Energy.  This air filter type can theoretically remove at least 99.97% of airborne particles, like dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns.

Airborne particles can stay suspended in the air indefinitely.  They are measured in microns, meaning they are so small it cannot be seen with the naked eye, but they can be viewed floating in the sunlight air coming through your window.  Sources of airborne particles can be natural, such as dust. The particles’ small size means they can penetrate deep into lung tissue, possibly causing lung disease. In contrast, large particles usually settle to the floor or top of the furniture after a short time.

What is more important than the air we breathe? In today’s world, and the quest for cleaner air, HEPA is a popular choice for allergy sufferers.  HEPA filters are being used in hospitals to help stop the spread of airborne germs and particulates. What better filter could be used in homes to filter the air as clean as it possibly can. HEPA air filters in HVAC systems, HRV’s and ERV’s can help reduce allergy and asthma symptoms.  HEPA filters can’t guarantee the removal of all allergens. Also, HEPA filters can’t remove the risk of all inhalable pollutants, but they can help.