HEPA Filter Benefits
HEPA is an acronym for High Efficiency Particulate Air. They are 99.7% effective at removing airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. HEPA filters capture particles through a diffusion filter, and increase effectiveness with age. A pre-filter is required to prevent large particles from blocking air flow through the filter. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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The USA Atomic Energy Commission developed the first HEPA filters in the 1940's. They were developed to filter radioactive particulate contaminates from the air. Esparto grass was used as the first filtration medium. Glass fibers were added to the paper in the 1950's. Specifications for HEPA filters were established in the 1960's. Prior to the 1970's, asbestos was part of the filtration medium. HEPA filters were initially used in medical and radioactive industries. However, currently there are products with HEPA filters for the home such as air cleaners and vacuum cleaners.
Features.
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HEPA filters have a pleated construction to allow for greater surface area for air filtration. The filters have a paper foundation which utilizes fine fiber technology. The most common fibers used in HEPA filters are glass and polymer fibers. Dust that accumulates on the surface of the filtration medium increases the efficiency of the filter. When the dust accumulated on the filter reduces air flow to unacceptable levels, the filter needs to be replaced.
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Misconceptions
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HEPA filters remove sub-micron particles from the air. However, larger particles settle on surfaces. HEPA filters cannot remove all dust, so manual dusting will be required to remove the larger allergens that are too heavy to stay airborne to be removed by a HEPA filtration system. HEPA filters cannot filter particulate matter that is deposited in bedding, carpets and under furniture. Allergy and asthma sufferers, and those who are sensitive to a variety of allergens, need to continue to manually remove allergens from these surfaces by vacuuming and washing linens frequently.
Benefits
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HEPA filters trap airborne allergens and potential toxins as small as 0.3 microns in size. Bacteria range in size from 0.3 to 60 microns. Virus particles range in size from 0.005 to 0.3 microns. Lead particles are approximately 2 microns. Asbestos fibers range in size from 0.7 to 90 microns. Pollens range from 10 to 1,000 microns. Dust mites range in size from 100 to 300 microns. HEPA filters are effective at reducing allergens to reduce colds, allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
Warning
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HEPA filters must be replaced every three to five years. The filter captures bacteria and viruses, so use gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after removing a used HEPA filter. High humidity, above 90% relative humidity, can decrease the effectiveness of a HEPA filter. Turn off the filtration system if there will be a period of high humidity. HEPA filters should not be used in outdoor environments.
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