Before the pandemic began, vacuum filters weren’t something that many of us thought about. But in the post-outbreak world, we’re all digging a bit deeper. We’re considering our options, diving into the details, and making better choices. We can do the hard work that’s necessary to keep ourselves, our loved ones, our employees or coworkers, and our communities safe. Choosing HEPA filters and cleaning services that use HEPA filters are two easy ways that we can make a big difference in the air quality at the office and at home. But what are HEPA filters?
HEPA Filters vs. Regular Filters
HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air. These filters are often also called high-efficiency particulate absorbing and high-efficiency particulate arrestance (the measure of a filter’s ability to remove synthetic dust from the air). Whichever name you know them by, their purpose is the same: to serve as an efficiency standard of air filter. HEPA filters remove at least 99.97% of airborne particles 0.3 micrometers in diameter. This percentage meets the United States Department of Energy (DOE) standard adopted by most American industries.
How HEPA Filters Work
HEPA filters remove contaminants from surfaces and the air by forcing the air through fibers that trap them. The fibers are typically made out of fiberglass. There is very little airspace left between the filters, so they can catch even the smallest particles. These particles are trapped in three different ways: diffusion, interception, and impaction. Each of the three methods differs slightly for maximum efficiency. Together, they provide unbeatable air filtering.
Diffusion is the result of the collision of gas molecules and the smallest particles in the area. The particles are impeded and delayed as they pass through the filter. Interception occurs when particles following the natural air stream come in contact with one of the HEPA filter’s fibers and then stick to it. And with impaction, larger particles can’t avoid the fibers and end up embedded in one of them instead. The three methods of trapping particles come together to give us that minimum of 99.97% removal.
Benefits of Using HEPA Filters
HEPA filters offer high-quality purification. They are highly effective in removing particles like pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and smoke. A normal vacuum would recirculate these particles back into the air. HEPA-filtered vacuums trap the particles instead. In order to achieve maximum efficiency, a true HEPA filter is needed, not just a filter that mimics its style. There are many benefits to removing these air particles, especially for individuals with asthma, allergies, or breathing problems.
These conditions, and others, can be triggered or worsened by small particles in the air that would be left behind by normal vacuums. With these tiny particles removed from your office or living space, your indoor air quality is drastically improved. HEPA filters can also remove dust, mold, and bacteria. They’re useful in every setting where the air quality can be improved, not just the ones where you worry about allergies and asthma. You’ll notice the difference immediately. HEPA filters are a simple way to provide cleaner air and peace of mind.
HEPA Vacuum Maintenance
If you’re using vacuums or air purifiers with HEPA filters at home or the office, it’s important to keep them maintained. Check the HEPA filters every two weeks. On average, HEPA filters have to be replaced every six months. It may be more or less depending on how often you use it and how contaminated the area gets. The best method is to replace the filter as soon as it starts to look discolored. These filters can be part of a bigger plan to keep pesky particles out of your office or home. For the best results, vacuum often, and reduce the number of harmful particles by keeping other areas cleaned and disinfected, too.
Corvus Janitorial
If you’re looking for a commercial cleaning company that uses only the highest-quality products and proven techniques, Corvus Janitorial is it. We use high-quality HEPA-filtered vacuums to improve the air quality in the offices and buildings we service. These filters remove particles and impurities from the air instead of circulating them right back in like normal vacuums do. What you’re left with is cleaner air and a higher quality of life. For all of your cleaning, purifying, and disinfecting needs, trust Corvus Janitorial. Contact us today to learn more about how Corvus can help you.
