HEPA, which stands for “high-efficiency particulate air”, is a type of air filter that is capable of trapping and removing microscopic particles, such as COVID-19 viruses, from the air. This means that a HEPA air filter can help prevent an infected person from transmitting the virus to another person. However, the EPA has noted that it takes a multi-pronged approach to combatting COVID and other viruses. A HEPA filter is an effective way to remove particles such as pet dander, pollen, smoke and dust. However, it cannot completely remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ozone and fine particles from the air.
Activated carbon is usually included as part of the HEPA filters sold today, which can help eliminate VOCs and ozone, but it has its own limitations. There are many misconceptions about the HEPA standard, about whether a purifier or air filter actually complies with the HEPA standard or not, and about what a HEPA filter can and cannot do. Many of the so-called HEPA air filters on the market may not actually offer this level of protection or something similar, as there is no evidence that the filter reaches the HEPA performance level. You can also get high-quality HEPA air filters at major DIY stores, but the selection is likely to be limited. The Department of Energy created an air filtration standard for HEPA filters, which were first developed in the 1940s for use in facilities contaminated with radioactive dust. Proper cleaning, eliminating sources of pollution, and using an air purifier that effectively removes the types of particles you need to remove are important steps you must take to keep the air in your home clean and safe.
While most allergenic particles are large enough to be trapped by a HEPA filter, very small fragments can penetrate the filter and remain in the air. A HEPA air filter physically traps particles as circulating air passes through a pleated screen of filter material. If health problems are the main reason you want to buy HEPA air filters, then you'll want to buy them from a highly reputable source. The air passes into the collection chamber or bag and is then recirculated back to the room. Technically, HEPA is an air filter category based on the size of the particulate medium and the percentage of particles that can be removed from the air as they pass through the filter. You just have to understand that a HEPA filter is one part of the solution to improve indoor air quality.
When humidity levels and temperatures are higher, the air filter can release volatile organic compounds and other substances. Thanks to previous research, we know that air filters with a high enough degree of filtration can reduce the amount of viral contaminants in the air. In conclusion, using a HEPA rated 14x20x1 air filter in your home or business can help reduce airborne contaminants such as pet dander, pollen, smoke and dust. However, it cannot completely remove VOCs, ozone and fine particles from the air. Activated carbon is usually included as part of these filters which can help eliminate VOCs and ozone but has its own limitations.
It is important to understand that a HEPA filter is only one part of improving indoor air quality; proper cleaning and eliminating sources of pollution are also important steps.
