KNOW YOUR HEPA FILTER

by True Guard

HEPA Filters FAQ

  1. What does HEPA mean?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), HEPA is an acronym for “high efficiency particulate air [filter]”

  1. How do HEPA filters work?

HEPA filters are a type of mechanical filtration, meaning that it physically traps particles to remove them from the environment. In the case of household air purifiers, a fan forces air through an ultrafine filter mesh which is so densely intertwined that it acts as a net to capture even microscopic particles.

  1. Where are air purifiers effective?

Air purifiers are best used in places with a high risk for contamination by virus particles, pollutants, chemicals, and other irritants in the air. Small spaces with low ventilation can especially benefit from air purifiers and HEPA filtration. Use air purifiers in spaces such as the office, home, bedroom, apartment, classroom, doctor’s office, restaurant, bar, or anywhere people gather or live indoors for long periods.

  1. When do filters need to be replaced?

HEPA Filters should be replaced every 6 to 12 months for maximum efficacy. Refer to your air purifier’s user manual for more detailed replacement information.

  1. Is my old filter still effective?

No! Old HEPA filters become clogged with millions of tiny particles. This makes the filters far less effective at processing air and can strain the fan on your air filter unit. Clogged filters can recirculate pollen, dust, viruses, and other harmful particles instead of purifying the air you breathe. Replacing your HEPA filter and activated carbon pre-filters on time can extend the life of your air purifier and reduce energy costs.

HEPA Filters and Viruses

  1. How long can Coronavirus stay airborne?

Tests show that coronavirus can stay airborne for up to three hours under certain conditions. This means that viral particles can remain in the air and settle on surfaces long after an infectious person is present in the space.

  1. Can Coronavirus be transmitted through the air?

Yes! Though airborne transmission is far less common than direct contact, there is a risk of airborne infection according to the CDC. Airborne contact can happen at distances greater than six feet when viral particles in the air make contact with mucus membranes in an individual’s nose and mouth. Chances of airborne infection are significantly increased in poorly ventilated or enclosed environments, especially when individuals within are not wearing face coverings.

  1. Can an air purifier lower my risk of Coronavirus infection?

Yes! Air filters with true HEPA filters or true HEPA replacement filters can significantly reduce the number of viral particles in the air by trapping them in a fine filter mesh which captures over 99.9% of viral particles of 0.3-micron size or larger.

  1. What are the best air filters for viruses?

True HEPA filters are widely available and able to capture viral particles. Always make sure that you replace your filters regularly with True HEPA certified filters such as TrueGuard HEPA replacement filters!

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