HEPA Filters for Improving Indoor Air Quality

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are devices that trap airborne particles, improving air quality.
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Where to get
Available in home appliance stores and online
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

HEPA Filters FAQ


Image credit: walmart.com

What is a HEPA filter?

HEPA is a type of pleated mechanical air filter. It is an acronym for "high efficiency particulate air [filter]" (as officially defined by the U.S. Dept. of Energy). 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).

What is a HEPA air purifier?

HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air. A HEPA air filter is made up of thousands of extremely fine fibres arranged into a matt to intercept both microscopic particles and larger ones. An air purifier will push air from the room through the filter to remove pollutant particles.

What is a high efficiency HEPA filter?

High-efficiency particulate air. High-efficiency particulate absorbing. High-efficiency particulate arrestance. In theory, a HEPA filter is literally any filter that can capture at least 99.97% of very small 0.3 microns in size particles.

How does a HEPA air filter work?

A HEPA air filter is made up of thousands of extremely fine fibres arranged into a matt to intercept both microscopic particles and larger ones. An air purifier will push air from the room through the filter to remove pollutant particles. By definition HEPA filters can trap close to 100% of the particles in the air that are 0.3 microns or smaller.

Do HEPA filters work?

Yes, HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters do work. These filters can trap 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns in size, effectively reducing allergens like dust, pet dander, and pollen in the air. However, they don't remove gases or odors. Is a HEPA filter better than an air purifier?

HEPA Filters References

If you want to know more about HEPA Filters, consider exploring links below:

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