What is a HEPA Filter? Your Top Questions Answered
For over 20 years, WuJiang Deshengxin Purification Equipment Co., LTD has specialized in manufacturing high-efficiency air purification solutions. Below, we answer the most common questions about HEPA filters to help you make informed decisions.
1. What is a HEPA Filter?
A HEPA filter (High-Efficiency Particulate Air filter) is a mechanical air filter that captures 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, mold spores, and bacteria. Developed during WWII for nuclear containment, modern HEPA filters are now widely used in homes, hospitals, and industrial settings.
2. How Does a HEPA Filter Work?
HEPA filters use three mechanisms to trap particles:
Interception: Particles stick to filter fibers when passing nearby.
Impaction: Larger particles collide with fibers and embed themselves.
Diffusion: Ultrafine particles (≤0.1 microns) zigzag unpredictably and get trapped.
This multi-stage filtration ensures superior air quality compared to standard filters.
3. What Are the Key Benefits of a HEPA Filter?
Allergy Relief: Removes 99.97% of pollen, pet dander, and dust mites.
Virus & Bacteria Capture: Traps microorganisms as small as 0.01 microns (when combined with UV-C).
Smoke Reduction: Effective against PM2.5 particles from wildfires or cigarettes.
Long-Term Cost Savings: High-grade HEPA filters last up to 12 months, reducing replacement frequency.
4. Are All HEPA Filters the Same?
No. Performance varies by grade:
Grade
Efficiency
Common Use
|
|
|
H11 | 95% | Residential |
H13 | 99.95% | Hospitals, Labs |
H14 | 99.995% | Pharmaceutical Cleanrooms |
For homes, H13-grade HEPA filters offer the best balance of efficiency and affordability.
5. How Often Should I Replace a HEPA Filter?
Standard Use: Replace every 12 months.
Heavy Pollution Areas: Replace every 6–8 months.
Signs of Wear: Reduced airflow or persistent odors indicate replacement is due.
Pro Tip: Pair your HEPA filter with a washable pre-filter to extend its lifespan by 30%.
6. Can HEPA Filters Capture Viruses?
Yes, but effectiveness depends on:
Virus Size: Most viruses (e.g., influenza, coronavirus) are 0.1–0.3 microns, within HEPA’s capture range.
Filter Grade: H13/H14 filters achieve near-total removal.
Additional Technologies: UV-C light or ionizers enhance disinfection.
7. What’s the Difference Between True HEPA and HEPA-Type Filters?
8. Why Choose Deshengxin HEPA Filters?
20+ Years of Expertise: Engineered for residential, commercial, and industrial use.
Tested Efficiency: Independently verified 99.99% capture rate (exceeds H14 standards).
Custom Sizes: Tailored solutions for HVAC systems, cleanrooms, and medical devices.
Explore Our Certified HEPA Filters →
