HEPA filters have become an increasingly common option in smart homes for those who really, really want to be sure they’re removing every bit of allergens or potentially infectious particles. Often found in air purifiers, the HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) filter is designed to remove at least 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger.
Such a highly effective filter can quickly fill with clogging particles while vacuuming, which means users should be prepared to clean them regularly as well. But HEPA filtration can get complicated depending on the type of filter your device uses. Let’s go through important frequently asked questions you should know about HEPA filters in vacuum cleaners.
Are all vacuum filters HEPA?
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No, this can be tricky too. A true HEPA filter is what we mentioned above — a filter rated to capture at least 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger. That’s a lot of airborne particles, including anything that could be dangerous like viruses, pet dander, and even the tiniest particles of pollen. The catch is that few filters are true HEPA, and they are even rarer on household vacuum cleaners.
That doesn’t stop commercials from claiming that vacuum filters are HEPA, often using the word “HEPA” or “HEPA-like” as a catchphrase to insinuate, “That’s a really good filter, folks.” True HEPA filters are large and generally take the form of thick columns: this is why they are rare on vacuum cleaners and more common on air purifiers that have a lot of room for filters. You can find HEPA-level filtration on some larger canisters and upright vacuums, usually combined with advanced sealing to capture all possible dust particles, but don’t confuse this with a certified HEPA filter.
Can you clean a real HEPA filter?
Not really. In almost every case, HEPA filters are designed to be completely replaceable. If a HEPA filter is labeled as permanent, it is almost certainly not a real HEPA filter.
HEPA filters are so effective at filtering particles that most of the particles they trap end up deep in the filter substrate. This means that you cannot clean the HEPA filter by vacuuming, which would only remove some particles from the surface and increase the possibility of permanent damage to the filter.
HEPA filters are also not meant to be washed. Washing a real HEPA filter can easily damage it so that it can no longer filter properly. Besides, the amount of particles that washing will remove will be small anyway.
How do you clean a HEPA-like filter?
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Okay, so what about vacuum filters that aren’t true HEPA, but are designed to last? How do you wash them? As always, it’s a good idea to read the manual and see what kind of cleaning it suggests. If it is okay to wash the filter, run it under cold (not hot) water with a small amount of detergent until the water runs clear. After that, it is important to leave the filter to air dry for about 24 hours, until it is completely dry. Otherwise, a little moisture could cause mold problems when the filter is put back into the vacuum.
If your HEPA-like or true HEPA filter has a pre-filter to catch larger particles, you should always take it out and wash it every few months. Prefilters are tough and almost always designed to last, so frequent washing won’t hurt them.
When should you replace HEPA vacuum filters?
When to replace a HEPA vacuum filter can vary depending on usage. In general, HEPA filters in residential use can last two to three years before they need to be replaced. In commercial scenarios, HEPA filters are changed every few months. Generic “HEPA” filters also need to be cleaned every few months, especially the smaller filters used on stick vacuums and similar models. Manuals can provide more specific information. There are also signs that the filter has outlived its purpose — musty odors or a sudden return of allergies may mean it’s time to look up your appliance model and order a compatible replacement filter.
What about robotic vacuum cleaners? Do they have HEPA filters?
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Not. Although some may use the word HEPA again, robot vacuums are too small for true HEPA filtration. However, models can use high-efficiency filters that still do a solid job of trapping particles. iRobot, for example, claims that its high-efficiency Roomba filters can capture 99% of dog and cat hair.
Are Roomba filters washable?
No, Roomba filters are generally not designed to come into contact with liquid that can damage them. However, basic filters are designed to be cleaned from time to time by tapping the filter against the trash to dislodge debris. The high-efficiency filters we mentioned above often need to be completely replaced.
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Source: newstars.edu.vn