Benefits of HEPA Filter Vacuums

What is a HEPA Filter Vacuum

Pollution is often a problem we consider when thinking of the outdoors, but air pollution exists in everyone’s home as well and considering the amount of time many people spend indoors, having clean air inside is just as important. While traditional vacuum cleaners may seem like they’re getting the job done, often times they just suck up large particles and end up leaving smaller bacteria particles behind in new areas. HEPA filter vacuums attempt to amend this fault by using a filtration system that picks up and isolates allergens and bacteria particles that float around in the air. HEPA stands for ‘high efficiency particulate air’ and vacuums must pass a test to be considered worthy of the HEPA title.

True or Absolute HEPA Filter

All HEPA filter vacuums are not created equal and there is some difference in the models available. The filter itself is made up of a mesh of fiberglass fibers arranged to trap both large and microscopic particles. Each type must perform to a set standard to merit its ranking. True or absolute HEPA filters must pass the test, ensuring that they pick up 99.97 percent or more of 0.3 microns; there are HEPA-like filters that are made similarly and perhaps even resemble true HEPA filters, but they only pick up 85 to 90 percent of particles. HEPA filter vacuums are also have a MERV rating (minimum efficiency reporting value), ranging on a scale of 1-20; the higher the number the more particles the vacuum picks up. Consumers can read on the filters the results of the test to know if the filter is a true HEPA.

Benefits of a HEPA Filter Vacuum

HEPA filter vacuums are particularly marketed to those who have allergies because unlike traditional vacuum cleaners that can’t trap many allergens, HEPA filter vacuums manage to clear the air and trap fine particles like pollen and pet dander that can be stuck in a variety of household surfaces. For those with allergies or conditions like asthma, this can make a huge difference.

Improves Air Quality

One of the biggest benefits of a HEPA filter vacuum is its ability to improve the air quality. The vacuum not only sucks up large particles, but also removes potentially harmful micro-particles that are floating around in the air. Removing these pollutants improves the overall air quality

Reduces Allergens

HEPA filter vacuums are particularly useful in the homes of people with allergies. Unlike traditional vacuum filters where many allergens stay in the air or are rereleased, HEPA filter vacuums simply don’t leave these potentially harmful substances in the air or on the carpets. They take care of the dust mites, mold spores, pollen, pet dander, and even tobacco smoke, potentially providing substantial allergy relief in many cases.

The ability of HEPA filter vacuums to clear pollutants from the air are so great that they are the trusted means for cleaning in places like hospitals, nuclear facilities, pharmaceutical and many other institutions where clean air is a mandatory. There’s no reason your home shouldn’t be kept at the same standard.

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/allergies/hepa-filters-for-allergies

http://housekeeping.about.com/od/vacuumcleaners/f/NeedaHEPA.html