True HEPA Air Purifers Are Truly Much Better Than HEPA-type Purifiers

You will probably see items that are labeled "True" HEPA if you shop for HEPA air purifiers. So, I'm sure you're wondering, does that mean there's a false one? Of course you would never find a product that boldly proclaimed to be a sub-standard HEPA air purifier, but to be called a True HEPA air purifier, there are some differences. As with any other purchase, it's left to the consumer to figure out the differences and know if they need to look for one or the other. Let's examine True HEPA air purifiers and why some products may not claim this.

How Are True HEPA Air Purifiers Different

There is a difference between a HEPA-type air purifier, and a True HEPA air purifier, which is also called an absolute HEPA air purifier. Even if folks do not always make it clear, when they're comparing HEPA filters to other air filtration medium, especially if they're referencing the likes of OSHA or the EPA, they're talking about True HEPA filters. Yes, there are many types of air purifiers available, but the only ones that places like labs and hospitals use are True HEPA air purifiers.

Particles! True HEPA Air Purifiers Stop Them

70 to 100 microns of thickness is the typical human hair. Consider how small 0.3 micron particles must be, then consider that although they must be tiny the true HEPA air purifier must be able to filter out at least 97 percent of particles that size to qualify. Although this may sound very technical, keep in mind it is actually a very important consideration. Particles of this size are the hardest to filter, even the smaller ones are easier to filter out. 0.3 microns are small enough in size to bypass the human body's defenses to get into the respiratory system and cause many illnesses. Thus, it is important that the true HEPA air purifiers be able to filter these tiny particles.

True HEPA Air Purifiers Actually Work Better When Dirty

This is one of the main differences between True HEPA air purifiers and others. This is also where the terms "True" and "Absolute" become interchangeable. An absolute type filtration media is designed to be more effective when dirty than when clean. The addition of the trapped particles actually increases the filtration power of a true HEPA air purifier. The reason for this is actually quite simple. As the dirt builds up, the spaces through which the air can pass become smaller.

How Do I Know If It's A True HEPA Air Purifier?

The packaging will give you all the information you really need to know if it is a true HEPA air purifier. Beware of the many HEPA-type air purifiers that are on the market that are held no to actual standards of filtration. If the product does not advertise as either "true HEPA" or "absolute HEPA" then check for the efficiency ratings on the packaging. Remember, you are looking for it to filter at least 97 percent of those tiny, dangerous 0.3 microns and if it doesn't then it is not a true HEPA air purifier.

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