Learning about what a HEPA filter vacuum is and how a HEPA filter vacuum gets its rating can mean a world of a difference to the cleanliness of your home. Whether you need relief from allergy symptoms or just want cleaner breathing air, a leading HEPA vacuum cleaner is a great choice. There are a few things to know before upgrading your deep cleaning game. What is a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner and how do you clean a vacuum filter? How do you know the best vacuum cleaner to buy? Keep reading.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- HEPA-Type filters can filter out airborne particles up to 0.3-micron particles in size and seriously improve breathing air.
- Using a HEPA air purifier between deep cleaning sessions with your HEPA vacuum cleaner can improve air quality quite a bit.
- There are six types of HEPA filters out there rated for doing slightly different things, although all of them pass the 0.3-micron particle test.
Consider a HEPA Filter Vacuum
So, what is a HEPA filter vacuum? Simply put, it’s just a type of vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA-rated filter in it. This is a game-changer for anybody’s cleaning performance. Whether it’s a weekly deep clean or daily spot cleaning, having a HEPA filter vacuum on hand is never a bad idea. And with the right amount of air watts in your vacuum, you will enjoy even better performance.
Insider Tip
The HEPA standard was set by the U.S. Department of Energy and is highly stringent.
What are HEPA Filters?
HEPA stands for “High-Efficiency Particulate Air.” As the acronym suggests, they are highly efficient at getting airborne particles out of your breathing supply. This is due to their pleated design, alongside other choices made by individual manufacturers. The HEPA standard was set by the U.S. Department of Energy and is highly stringent.
How HEPA Filters Work
These mechanical air filters act as a barrier between the air your vacuum sucks in and the air on the outside that you breathe. Your vacuum pushes the air through the filter, which holds and traps any unwanted particles. This provides you fresher air to breathe since your vacuum cleans both carpets as well as oxygen.
Insider Tip
To choose the best HEPA vacuum cleaner, you’ll want to look at the list of critical features they come with.
How To Use HEPA Vacuum Cleaners
HEPA vacuum cleaners will work the same way that any other vacuum does. You’ll follow the manufacturer’s instructions and either plug it in or charge it. From there, just use it as you would any other vacuum. However, if you live in an apartment, remember to vacuum your apartment at the right time, so you don’t annoy your neighbors.
Choosing a HEPA Vacuum Cleaner
To choose the best HEPA vacuum cleaner, you’ll want to look at the list of critical features they come with. Since all of them will have highly-rated filters, you don’t need to worry about that. Instead, think about the type of vacuum cleaner you need, whether it needs to be portable, and other essential features. Your lifestyle will significantly determine the answer to this question.
How To Maintain A HEPA Filter
You should never try and clean a dirty filter unless it is specifically made to be washable. Otherwise, invest in replacement filters and pay attention to the suggested filter replacement frequency. If you are able to get a washable one, follow the steps below:
- Carefully remove the filter, being careful not to touch the material of the filter.
- Run the filter under cool water, moving it back and forth gently to help remove debris
- Let the filter air dry completely before reinstalling it in your vacuum cleaner.
Warning
You should never try and clean a dirty filter unless it is specifically made to be washable.
F.A.Q.
How is a HEPA vacuum cleaner a useful tool for allergy and asthma sufferers?
A HEPA filter is one of the most valuable tools you can use in keeping the air free of dust particles and even helping keep allergic reactions low. This is because of the rating required to get a HEPA Filter certification. The filter must be able to absorb all particles above .3 microns in size.
Do all Dyson vacuums have HEPA filters?
No, not all Dyson vacuums have HEPA certifications on their filters. You will always want to check and look at the type of filter used with that model. You can also ask Dyson directly if you have any questions. Luckily, Dyson vacuums still come with fabulous filters that are considered highly efficient.
Do HEPA Filters Reduce Allergic Reactions?
HEPA-Type filters are explicitly recommended for people with allergies to help with their allergy flare-ups. HEPA vacuums can also help with asthma, as well. This is because of how efficient they are at removing harmful airborne particles.
What are HEPA vacuums?
To be certified as a HEPA vacuum, the filter in the vacuum cleaner must be proven to pass the certification test. The manufacturer must include a filter that is capable of filtering out anything smaller than 0.3-Micron particles.
STAT: This type of air filter can theoretically remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns (µm). (source)
