HEPA Vacuum Cleaning

Infections and Irritants

• Fine particles in the air carry a number of irritants, among them dust mite droppings, spores, pet dander traces, plant emissions and pollen. These irritants can trigger allergy symptoms, especially in asthma sufferers. HEPA vacuums filter out these particles making it easier to breathe comfortably and reduce the likelihood of asthma attacks.

  HEPA vacuums are great on carpets full of pet hair, areas of the house near plants or open windows, to clean out dusty vents or corners and to pick up potentially hazardous breathing materials such as mouse droppings.

  Viral infections and bacteria also travel through the air. HEPA vacuums and air filters are often used for biomedical purposes as a safe and sanitary measure. Some models use intense ultraviolet lights to kill living organisms or bacteria while they are trapped. Airborne viruses may be caught in a HEPA filter system also. The best HEPA filters are reported to be 99.995 percent effective in killing infections.

Function

• Fibers in a HEPA filter are randomly arranged and layered. This dramatically increases the odds that fine particles flowing through the air steam will brush up against the fibers and cling to them. Through interception, collection and diffusion, HEPA filters trap and retain almost all particles of 0.3 microns in diameter.

Problems and Advantages

• Not all HEPA vacuums work in the same way. Some are more effective than others are. Filtration systems must be sealed within the vacuum, with no air leaks or cracks, to ensure that most of the particles are trapped.

  Beware of vacuums that use ambiguous terms, model numbers or modifying descriptions that you do not understand. True and Absolute HEPA filters are tested and verified by rigorous standards. Cheaper versions, knock-offs and imitations may also work but less effectively.

  HEPA filters can be expensive. Those that are fortified or improved can be particularly costly, though a washable filter may save money in the long run. When choosing whether to invest in a filtered vacuum, consider the importance of air quality in your environment.

  HEPA vacuums are superior in terms of promoting respiratory ease and clean air. While brooms and basic vacuums "spit" air, dust and particles back into the room as they clean, HEPA vacuums do not. By clearing the air of infections, allergens, bacteria and dirt, they help to create and sustain a healthier and safer home, work or public space.