The vacuum cleaner is increasingly becoming an essential cleaning aid in households. Thanks to the ability to clean dirt, this machine brings a lot of health benefits to people. But what are the best vacuum cleaner brands? No device is suitable for all needs. Therefore, when buying, we should carefully consider our cleaning goals. In addition to choosing the machine on the criteria of suction power as well as capacity, the filter of the vacuum is equally important. Let's take a look at the two most effective filters nowadays which are HEPA filters and ULPA filters to see which one is right for you.
What are HEPA filters and ULPA filters?
- High – efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters
This filter can trap particles down to 0.3 microns and larger with the minimum efficiency of 99.97%.
- Ultra – Low Penetration Air (ULPA) filters
This filter can trap particles down to 0.12 microns and larger with the minimum efficiency of 99.999%.
Similarities between HEPA filter and ULPA filter
HEPA filters and ULPA filters usually have the same filter construction and process. They are composed of layers of dense fibers. These layers, after merging, will create a fine filter to help remove risk elements in the air that is forced through them. Therefore, both filters are suitable for use for allergy sufferers. However, neither of these filters can remove gasses or odors.
Difference between HEPA filters and ULPA filters
1. Size of particles
The immediately noticeable difference is the size of the particles it can trap. HEPA filters can only remove particles from 0.3 microns. Some newer types of HEPA filter like HEPA C or HEPA J are said to remove particles between 0.2 microns and 0.3 microns. Although this type is not commonly produced and put into use. The ULPA filter, on the other hand, removes even smaller particles, which can reach 0.12 microns. However, if we put it into use, HEPA filters are enough for household vacuum cleaners, even for industrial one. And most Best Rated Vacuum Cleaners nowadays use HEPA filters.
2. Airflow capacity of HEPA filter and ULPA filter
The next difference between these two filters is the capacity of air that can flow through them. Although it has the same filter construction, the density of the filter medium is increased in the ULPA filter, making this machine more efficient. However, because of the thicker density, the airflow through this filter is reduced by 20% to 50% compared to HEPA filter. Therefore, machines that use ULPA filters will have to use more energy. Imagine if we use a ULPA filter for cordless vacuum cleaner or handheld vacuums, we don’t think it would be effective because it will run out of energy pretty fast.
3. HEPA filter and ULPA filter on the market
HEPA filters are more commonly produced and a variety of this filter is available. Meanwhile, ULPA has not been put into mass use due to its high cost and more energy consumption.
Currently, HEPA filters are usually used in vacuum cleaners, suitable for a variety of spaces, whereas ULPA filters are often used in semiconductor industries.
Final thought
Both of these filters are great filters, effective and beneficial to the health of the consumer. Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses. Top vacuum cleaners reviews will often have many options for you to choose from. However, you should choose the machine that suits your needs, purposes and budget.
