HEPA vs HEPA-Type Filtration. Which is Better?

by Eureka Forbes Home Appliance Providers

If you are listing out the best air purifiers in India, you surely have noticed Hepa filter air purifiers or HEPA-type air purifiers. So, what’s the difference between the two, and how do you pick from among the range of air purifiers for home use?

Difference between HEPA and HEPA-type

High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter is one that traps 99.97 per cent of particulates that are of 0.3 microns or higher. Just how small or ‘micro’ is 0.3 microns? It’s hard to imagine, but imagine something at least seven times smaller than a strand of hair, which is five microns! A HEPA filter can trap this tiny particle, so you know how effective it is.

A HEPA filter traps contaminants by letting air pass through a mesh. All pollutants like dust mites, smoke and pollen are trapped. HEPA filters are made out of fibres (glass), which are then smoothened out to resemble paper. HEPA filters are fragile, and expensive as well. They are found in the best quality air purifiers for home use. When you are looking for the best air purifiers in India, you should always ask if they are HEPA-type air purifiers or Hepa filter air purifiers before you buy.

Just not in the same league

Just what are these HEPA-type air purifiers, you ask? They are filters of good standard made by competitors but are not necessarily Hepa air purifiers. HEPA-type air purifiers are capable of trapping 99 per cent of particulates, but they are of 2 microns or bigger. These could be dust or dander of pets. Also, there is no guarantee that every HEPA-type or HEPA-like filter has the same standards; one may trap particles of 2 microns and another 5 microns. They have no set standards unlike a true HEPA filter. This means that HEPA-type filters are ok, but not in the same league as HEPA. That explains the pricing as well: HEPA-type filters are less expensive than true HEPA ones.

When should you buy a HEPA filter air purifier:

• If you have breathing/respiratory problems and you want every micro-sized particle to be removed, you should use an air purifier with HEPA filter.

• If quality is something you will never want to compromise on, you must definitely invest in a HEPA filter.

When should you buy a HEPA-type air purifier:

• If you are not particularly worried by particulates in the air that are really micro-sized, and you don’t have any major respiratory/breathing problems.

• If you don’t have the budget for a HEPA, you could probably invest in HEPA-type as a temporary measure.

Now that you know all about HEPA and HEPA-type filters, go ahead and pick one that is most suited for you.