New Delhi: Due to increasing pollution in many cities including Delhi-NCR, the air inside the house also gets contaminated. The smoke from firecrackers burnt during Diwali also makes the air poisonous and in such a situation people cannot go out without wearing a mask. It becomes difficult to breathe even inside the house, in such a situation people install air purifiers.
Air purifiers help in cleaning the air inside the house. If you are planning to buy an air purifier this year, then before that know the difference between HEPA filter and normal filter. Many people get confused about this and then they do not understand which air purifier would be right to buy.
What is a HEPA filter?
HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air. It’s a special type of air filter designed to capture very small particles in the air. A high-quality HEPA filter can filter out at least 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns in size, cleaning the air. It can remove dust, mold spores, and various other contaminants from the air.
What is a normal filter?
Normal filters are typically the simplest or basic filters found in air purifiers. Their efficiency depends on the material used and design. Pre-filters can trap larger dust particles, hair, and pet dander. Some secondary filters can also capture smaller particles. However, not every normal filter is as efficient as a HEPA filter.
What is the difference between a HEPA filter and a normal filter?
- The most important feature of a HEPA filter is its filtration quality. It can capture even very small particles in the air. In contrast, the efficiency of a conventional filter depends on its quality.
- A HEPA filter helps reduce fine particles like PM2.5. A standard pre-filter, meanwhile, is primarily good for trapping larger dust particles and hair. However, not all non-HEPA filters are the same.
- Air purifiers with HEPA filters can be expensive, and replacement filters are also costly. Some models with standard filters are available at lower prices, but it’s important to check their filtration efficiency before purchasing.
- Both types of filters may need periodic cleaning or replacement. HEPA filters should typically be replaced every 1 year. HEPA filters cannot be washed.
- A HEPA filter is good for reducing fine particles in your home, bedroom, or office. A standard filter can only trap larger dust particles.
Keep these things in mind when buying an air purifier
- Choose an air purifier according to the size of your room.
- Check the efficiency and CADR rating of the HEPA filter.
- Find out the price and availability of replacement filters first.
- Choose a model with activated carbon filter as per your need.
