HEPA vs. True HEPA Filter: Understanding the Difference

Clean air is essential for health; this is true in spaces where at-risk areas such as hospitals, clinics, and labs are. As a facility manager, the right air filtration systems ensure the air quality is at its best and most healthy. Many options are available, but how will you know which filtration system will offer the safety of your facility's patients and staff need? 

HEPA filters are considered the gold standard in air filtration systems. Even among the HEPA filters (or filters claiming to be of a similar quality to HEPA filters), there is some discourse over which is best suited for different uses and which may be worth the investment. In this blog, we'll help to break down the different types of HEPA filtration and discuss the best choice for your unique facility's needs. 

What is a HEPA Filter?

HEPA stands for High-efficiency Particulate Air Filter, and these highly regulated and rigorously certified filters must meet strict standards set by the United States Department of Energy (DOE). To be certified as HEPA, they must remove at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and other pollutants.

These filters are highly effective and can be used in various industries. Still, they are particularly beneficial in a medical setting where clean air can prevent the spread of harmful particles among vulnerable patients and hard-working medical staff. 

True-HEPA Filters

A True HEPA filter is a fully certified HEPA filter that conforms 100% to the DOE standard for HEPA filtration outlined above. The word "true" is a claim presented by the DOE HEPA Standards and indicates that the "true" HEPA filter is the highest standard of air filtration available. When you come across a "true" HEPA filter designation, you can confidently use this machinery in your facility to achieve the highest indoor air quality (IAQ) levels for your investment.

Suppose you want the certification-backed filtration power of a HEPA filter but need to capture even smaller viruses and other microscopic pollutants. In that case, you can also opt for our H13 medical-grade HEPA filter, which is even more efficient at filtering the air for susceptible groups. 

No matter the level of filtration is best for your medical facility, we're committed to bringing you quality options. That is why we offer genuine HEPA Filters that filter can destroy pathogens smaller than <.3 microns, cleaning the air up to 99.99% — because your facility deserves only the very best. 

HEPA-like Filters

On the other hand, if you're on the hunt for a HEPA air filtration system, you're sure to come across systems claiming to be "HEPA-type" or "HEPA-style" filtration systems. Don't be fooled — this is false advertising. 

Any variation of "HEPA-XYZ" filters is not a True HEPA filter. The only real reason companies may choose to use "true" HEPA is to be clear that their equipment has been tested and certified to meet HEPA standards, unlike their "HEPA-style" counterparts.

Machines may be sold under the pretense of being HEPA filters, but they do not meet the standards. These filters have an efficiency rating of up to only 99%, and they capture particles down to 0.02 microns, which is not as effective as True HEPA filters.

Why Should You Choose True HEPA Over HEPA-like Filters?

For the best air filtration, it's crucial to choose True HEPA filters for their high-efficiency ratings and compliance with DOE standards. Filtration machines are the best option for containing particles. Ensuring that your facility's air quality is safe and healthy for everyone.

Additionally, it's crucial to choose filters from trusted brands to ensure that they meet the DOE standards. True HEPA filters also have a high filter density, which means they can capture more for longer, requiring fewer replacements. 

Across the board, a true HEPA filter will do more for your IAQ and be backed by testing and certification. HEPA-like filters cannot compete when it comes to their level of filtration and often will be marked up because of their claims to HEPA-style filtration, even if they are different. If safety is paramount, save your budget on something other than a lesser product. You'll likely want to select the real deal — the true HEPA filter

Provide the Air Quality Your Facility Deserves

As a facility manager or owner, providing clean air for staff, patients, and visitors falls on your shoulders. Clean air benefits everyone in the facility and helps to reduce the risk of airborne illnesses, allergens, and other pollutants. When you prioritize high air quality, you equip your staff to do their best work, and patients will appreciate the effort to keep their health in mind.

True HEPA filters are the best tool to provide the necessary levels of IAQ, and rest assured; your air filtration is supported by rigorous testing and strict certifications.

Equip Your Facility for Health and Safety with HEPA Filters

Selecting the right air filtration system is essential for maintaining clean air in the facility, especially where the health of patients and hard-working staff. While various options are available, a True HEPA filter will suit the facility's unique needs.

True HEPA filters offer the highest level of filtration, compliance with DOE standards, and a longer lifespan, making them a highly worthwhile investment. Download our HEPA vs. ULPA guide today to learn more about choosing the best True HEPA filter for your facility.