What is a HEPA Filter Vacuum
Pollution is often a problem we consider when thinking of the outdoors, but air pollution also exists in indoor environments. Many employees spend a lot of time working indoors. Having clean air inside is critical to a healthy work environment. While traditional vacuum cleaners may sound and look like they’re getting the job done, they often just vacuum up large particles, leaving smaller particulates behind and recirculating in the air. HEPA filter vacuums fix this problem by using a specialized filtration system. This removes and isolates allergens and bacteria particles that float in the air or on the floor of your facility. HEPA stands for ‘high efficiency particulate air’. Vacuums must pass rigorous testing to be considered worthy of the HEPA title.
True or Absolute HEPA Filter
All HEPA filter vacuums are not created equal, and there are some differences in the models available. The filter itself is normally made of a mesh of fiberglass fibers arranged to trap both large and microscopic particles. A HEPA filter must perform to a set standard to merit its ranking. True or absolute HEPA filters must pass the test, ensuring they pick up 99.97% or more of particulate size of 0.3 microns. There are HEPA-like filters that are made similarly and even resemble true HEPA filters, but they only filter for 85% to 90% of particles. HEPA filter vacuums also have a MERV rating (minimum efficiency reporting value), ranging on a scale of 1-20. The higher the number on the rating, the more particles the vacuum picks up. Consumers can read the results of the test on any filter to know if it is a true HEPA.
Benefits of a HEPA Filter Vacuum
HEPA filter vacuums are particularly helpful to those who have allergies. Unlike traditional vacuum cleaners that are unable to filter many allergens, HEPA filter vacuums can filter fine particles like pollen and pet dander that are present on many indoor office surfaces and can constantly circulate in the air. For those with allergies or conditions like asthma, removing these particulates from the air can make a stark difference.
Improves Air Quality
One of the biggest benefits of a HEPA filter vacuum is its ability to improve the air quality. The HEPA vacuum not only removes large particles, but also removes potentially harmful micro-particles that are floating around in the air. Over time, removing these pollutants can significantly improve indoor air quality.
Reduces Allergens
HEPA filter vacuums are particularly useful in any indoor environment where people are present who are sensitive to allergens. Traditional vacuum filters leave many allergens in the air or release them. HEPA filter vacuums simply don’t leave these potentially harmful substances in the air or on the carpets. They remove dust mites, mold spores, pollen, pet dander, and even tobacco smoke, providing substantial allergy relief in many cases.
The ability of HEPA filter vacuums to clear pollutants from the air is 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 mandatory. There’s no reason your office shouldn’t be kept at the same high standard.
For information about how to help your carpet last longer, please read Extending the Life of Your Carpet with Proper Carpet Maintenance.
Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/allergies/hepa-filters-for-allergies
http://housekeeping.about.com/od/vacuumcleaners/f/NeedaHEPA.htm
http://www.safetreatmentsforasthma.com/hepa-vacuum.html
http://www.environix.co.uk/hepa-vacuum-cleaners.html
