HEPA Filter | Heating and Air Conditioning
HEPA Filter | Heating and Air Conditioning
The HEPA Filter Defined
The high efficiency particulate air or HEPA filter is 99.7% effective in removing air born particles. A prefilter captures large particles, preventing blockage of the airflow. A HEPA filter can capture airborne allergens such as dust mites, mold, pet dander, bacteria, tobacco smoke, pollen, smog, viruses and other dangerous contaminates from your indoor air. This reduces the incidence of colds, exacerbation of chronic respiratory conditions, allergy and asthma attacks. Furthermore, HEPA filters have been used in hospitals for more than 70 years to prevent the spread of disease; providing a proven source for cleaner air utilizing your home’s heating and air conditioning.
In fact, HEPA filters are so effective, the CDC recommends HEPA filtration for the capture of pathogens, microbial spores and other contaminants in the air exhausted from patient isolation rooms.
The Capable HEPA Filter
The HEPA’s ultra-fine medium captures microscopic particles by a combination of diffusion, interception, and inertial impaction. To meet the minimum requirements of a HEPA filter, the filter must be tested and certified to prove that it will remove at least 99.97% (9,997 out of 10,000) of particles 0.3-micron in diameter from the air that passes through the filter.
HEPA Filters and Your AC
A HEPA filter can significantly reduce the number of airborne allergens, pathogens, and irritants, making breathing much easier for those who are sensitive to them. When selecting a HEPA filter, it is important to select one that will provide the purification you need, without excessive restriction of the heating and air conditioning system’s airflow, which would cause the air conditioner to work harder.
HEPA Filter Benefits
Allergens can make respiratory issues worse. Everyone benefits from cleaner air, and a HEPA filter will provide it when the following conditions apply to your home:
- Households with pets
- A smoker resides in the home
- You live in an area with a high pollen count
- You live near a major road, a crop producing farm, railroad, industrial or manufacturing site
- The home has a large amount of carpeting
- Someone has chronic respiratory problems
- The use of a fireplace or wood heater during the winter
HEPA Compatibility with Your Heating and Air Conditioning System
A HEPA filter is not compatible with all heating and air conditioning systems. A non-compatible system may suffer a reduced airflow, placing a strain on the system, and resulting in a shortened lifespan or damage to the unit. If you are not certain your system is compatible, contact the manufacturer or your HVAC technician. If your system is not compatible with a HEPA filter, we can provide clean air solutions for your home.
Care of HEPA Filters
The HEPA filter captures many viruses and bacteria, so wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after removing a HEPA filter. Humidity above 90% relative humidity can adversely affect a HEPA filter. Turn off the filtration system during periods of high humidity.
HEPA filters are one of the most affordable air purifying systems available, and the best value in providing clean air in your home. HEPA filters require replacement every 3-5 years.
Contact a Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning representative for questions about HEPA filters, and your HVAC system. Our certified, and experienced technicians provide professional quality maintenance, heating and air conditioning, accurate installation, and reliable air conditioning repair in Katy. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.
