One of the most popular solutions for indoor air quality issues is high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. They can be found in various home appliances, as well as your HVAC system.
In this post, trusted HVAC installation contractors share a few quick facts about HEPA filters.
HEPA Filters Were First Used in Nuclear Facilities and Hospitals
HEPA filters were originally designed for the purpose of protecting workers in nuclear facilities from inhaling radiated airborne particles. In the 60s, hospitals began to use HEPA filters as well to stop airborne germs and particles from spreading. These filters soon started appearing in home appliances as well, including air purifiers, vacuum cleaners and whole-house air filtration systems.
HEPA Filters Can Help Allergy Sufferers
Dust, pollen and dander can trigger allergy symptoms like a sore throat, sneezing, watery eyes and difficulty breathing. Luckily, HEPA filters can trap most of these airborne particulates. In the EPA’s “Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home”, they mention that using HEPA filters in portable air purifiers and HVAC systems can help reduce allergy and asthma symptoms. If anyone in your household suffers from allergies, make sure to hire HVAC companies who offer products with HEPA filters.
Read the Label
The Department of Energy (DOE) requires HEPA filters used by DOE contractors to be able to remove 99.7 percent of airborne particles 0.3 microns or larger. However, no federal or national regulations exist for the consumer industry. HEPA filters that meet DOE standards are labeled as either “Absolute HEPA” or “True HEPA.” Manufacturers who don’t meet DOE specifications usually label their products as “HEPA-type,” “HEPA-like,” or “HEPA-style.” These products may do a good job, but they haven’t been tested and certified by the DOE.
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