Vacuums: Tips on How Often to Change a HEPA Filter

Most, if not all the cleaning professionals can attest that HEPA filters are among the most efficient cleaners out there.

HEPA filters can capture the smallest particles, down to 0.3 microns in size, 99% of the time.

With a HEPA cleaner, you can be assured of indoor air quality. These filters can trap dust, pollen, mold, smoke, bacteria and other microscopic particles.

Over time, however, you'll need to change the HEPA filters. See, with time, the debris collected become the better part of the HEPA, and this can hinder the overall performance.

Changing a HEPA filter is beneficial in a plethora of ways.

For starters, it will allow your air-con to clean your home to the highest filtration.

Secondly, an efficient HEPA cleaner is crucial to the health of your family.

Finally, changing a filter will extend the longevity of your air conditioner.

But how often do you need to change your HEPA filters and when is the right to do so?

Well, there’re no “cut and dry” rules on the regularity of when to change your HEPA filters.

The frequency of the HEPA filter changes will depend on a myriad of factors, including how often you use your machine, the indoor environment, the condition of the air con and even the location.

According to the professionals, the general rule of thumb is to replace the HEPA filters at least once every six months. This is particularly true if your filter contains carbon.

Nonetheless, some of the filters will go up to two years without requiring change.

If you're still unsure on when or whether it's the right time to change your HEPA filter, remember that you will not lose anything by playing safe and changing your HEPA filter regularly.

Nonetheless, here are some a few pointers to guide you on how often you should change your HEPA filters.

Residential Setting

If you’re using a vacuum with a HEPA filter is strictly a residential setting, the filter should last anywhere from 2-3 years before needing a replacement.

While the period will depend on how much you use it, regular cleaning usage should last anywhere from 24 to 36 months.

Commercial Use

If you are using your vacuum in a commercial setting such as an office, the filter should be changed more frequently.

If it's used daily, it should be checked at least every six months.

If the filter looks heavily soiled, it should be changed even more regularly; otherwise, the filter should be changed at least once a year.

In a commercial setting, we recommend that you perform a DOP Testing | Dispersed Oil Particulate Test to ascertain the integrity/efficiency of HEP of your filter. This will ensure that all your workers are protected and only inhale quality indoor air.

If you Smell Must

While it’s good to know how long a vacuum can last, a musty smell is an indicator that your HEPA filters need change.

In any case, the musty smell indicates that the integrity of your HEPA filter has been compromised and it’s no longer working efficiently.

Carbon Filters

Some of the advanced HEPA filtration systems usually come with an additional layer of filtration in the form of carbon pre-filter.

Carbon pre-filters are excellent at removing the odors from the air.

Similar to the regular HEPA filters, the carbon filters should be removed at least annually for commercial uses, and one in 2 or 3 years for residential use.

Others

If your filter has a pre-filter that is designed to capture the large particulate matter, you should check the filter after every three to four months.

Also, if the filter or the housing that holds the filter ever gets damaged, you should change the filter as well.

During replacement, we recommend that you call a professional to make the change.