Facts

• HEPA is an acronym for High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter. HEPA filters trap 99.97 percent of airborne particles 0.3 microns and larger. A HEPA vacuum, according to AIC, is one designed with a HEPA filter as the last filtration stage. A HEPA sealed system is one that passes air taken in through the HEPA filter before it is exhausted. A HEPA sealed system is necessary in order to avoid allergens and pollutants escaping back into the air.
  
  

Significance

• HEPA filtration improves indoor air quality because it captures and seals in allergens and pollutants. This is particularity important to a family's well being. Allergy sufferers benefit from a HEPA vacuum. Small particles like dust mite feces can reach the lungs and cause negative health effects as respiratory infections, asthma, coughing, and ear, nose and throat irritation.
  
  

Types

• HEPA vacuums come as upright or canister types. Some use collection bags and some use cyclonic action as the pre-filtration process before it reaches the HEPA filter. Follow the manufacturer's directions for emptying HEPA vacuums, as exposure of the allergens and pollutants back to the air defeats the purpose. Certified vacuum cleaners assure true HEPA filtration. EN1822 is the certified HEPA standard that represents high standards in testing.
  
  

Misconceptions

• Many vacuums are represented as HEPA when they are not. Manufacturers often call a non HEPA vac a vacuum with a HEPA type filter. If no particle size (0.3 microns) AND efficiency (99.97%) are given, it is not a true HEPA vacuum. Both must be given for the vac to be a true HEPA vacuum. If the vacuum lacks heavy seals where parts come together, it is not a true HEPA vacuum. True HEPA vacuums require high engineering, design and manufacturing standards. True HEPA vacuums cost more, but their cleaning performance is outstanding. Prices vary widely.
  
  

History

• HEPA filtration was invented to capture tiny environmental contaminant particles such as lead paint, asbestos and mold. They were first used in industry, but later HEPA house filtration and HEPA vacuums were designed to keep contaminants and dust out of the home environment.