What is a Hera Filter in a Vacuum Cleaner? How the HEPA filter works

Since the release of the very first vacuum cleaner, manufacturers have been constantly fighting for the purity of the exhaust of this unit. The first models of vacuum cleaners, sucking up dust and debris on one side, safely released half of the dust particles on the other. In fairness, it should be noted that some modern vacuum cleaners have the same feature as their great-grandfathers. However, safer for human health Vacuum cleaners with a well-designed filtration system are considered. Let's try to understand this in detail, is it really so. Today, the number of filtration stages in vacuum cleaners for dry cleaning can reach 8-9. Fine filters are the final barrier to dust. HEPA. Today they are the main elements in the filtration system of modern vacuum cleaners, ensuring the cleanliness of cleaning the premises.

What is a HEPA filter

The abbreviation HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Absorption. Speaking in Russian, a filter for high-efficiency dust particle retention. HEPA filters keep the smallest dust particles from being re-emitted into the atmosphere of the room. It is these microparticles that, according to the manufacturers, may contain allergenic and pathogenic microorganisms, such as dust mites, animal dander, fungal spores and pollen, etc. For people with asthma or those prone to allergies, vacuum cleaners with filters are simply contraindicated and serve only to maintain a visible (for the human eye) cleanliness of the atmosphere in the house. A healthy person will also not benefit from inhaling polluted air, so everyone needs to get rid of dust in the house. accessible ways. And don't forget that this noble cause worth following A complex approach(timely replacement of all filters and washing of the vacuum cleaner itself).

So, what is a HEPA filter, and is it really capable of effectively retaining dusty microparticles? The design of the filter is quite simple - it is an accordion-folded material. This uncomplicated design increases the area of ​​the filtering surface. As a result, without reducing air permeability, the life of the filter is extended. There are two types of material from which filters are made.

1. paper or fiberglass. These are the so-called disposable HEPA filters, which have a certain, limited service life. Such filters are mainly used in inexpensive models of vacuum cleaners and will not allow dust particles up to 0.3 microns in size to pass through.
2. Fluoroplast. As manufacturers themselves characterize fluoroplastic filters, reusable membranes can be washed with ordinary running water. These filters are claimed to last longer than paper filters due to the properties of the polymer material. They are able to retain dust up to 0.04-0.06 microns in size. But in practice, numerous users, having washed the filter once under water, many have encountered fungus, mold and an unpleasant odor from the vacuum cleaner, which in turn is suggestive.

There are certain international standards by which the effectiveness of HEPA filters is evaluated. According to accepted world standards, filters are classified according to the degree of filtration, that is, what percentage of microparticles they are able to retain. Classes 10 to 14 are claimed to withhold 85% to 99.99%. Moreover, filters with the highest degree of purification are mainly used for industrial purposes. Conventional vacuum cleaners for home cleaning use filters of class 11-13.

How to choose the right HEPA filter what characteristics it should have, and whether they correspond to specifications what the manufacturers say. Let's try to figure it out by looking at the range of vacuum cleaners from one of the most popular Samsung brands.

HEPA 11 filter for Samsung

Samsung HEPA filter class 11 is mainly used in budget models vacuum cleaners of this brand. All models of Samsung Assy grille-HEPA SC 6500 vacuum cleaners are equipped with a filter of this class. HEPA H11 protects the air from pollution by retaining about 95% of harmful dust particles and microorganisms. The filter itself is placed in a rubber housing, which, being located in the vacuum cleaner, is closed from above by a plastic grille of the housing. As already mentioned, outwardly the HEPA 11 filter for Samsung is a dense material folded into an accordion. The models of SC-65…66 vacuum cleaners mainly use washing filters, that is, according to the logic of the manufacturer, they must end their service together with the vacuum cleaner. However, in the instructions for some models, manufacturers did not consider it necessary to indicate the type of filter, and therefore, if you see a clearly written recommendation for washing the filter, then you have HEPA from PTFE. Rinse the filter under the pressure of water, preferably once a month, carefully cleaning each fold of the accordion. After this procedure, the filter must be thoroughly dried, otherwise you risk getting bad smell in the apartment. In addition, an undried filter can “bloom” and the air in your home is additionally “enriched” with fungal mold spores.

When buying a vacuum cleaner, be sure to check with the seller whether the HEPA filter is reusable in order to navigate the timing of its replacement. Washable filters, of course, have more long term services than paper ones, but they should be changed at least once every half a year. We advise you to immediately stock up on three to five sets of new filters - a recommendation from practice. And you should not trust everything that is written on the package. It is better to change the filter in time.

If your home is inhabited by people prone to allergies or asthma, then a HEPA filter will not be enough to effective cleaning air. And even vice versa, it is contraindicated. And you should consider purchasing a separator cleaning filter of a higher class.

HEPA 12 for Samsung

According to the world classification, HEPA 12 filters trap dust microparticles with high efficiency. Which is a good indicator for use in everyday life. HEPA 12 from Samsung installed in vacuum cleaners model range Samsung Assy Filter Outlet SC-65…66. Also vacuum cleaners of the SC-88 series are supplied with the HEPA 12 Silver+ filter. In addition to retaining dust particles for air outlet, this type of filter, as stated by the manufacturer, has additional protection from the growth of bacteria on its surface. The filter material processed according to Silver technology will not allow the formation of dirt and protect against unpleasant odors. The undoubted advantage of these filters is a higher degree of purification.

When buying a vacuum cleaner, the first thing that a buyer usually pays attention to is its power. However, the class and type of the filter must also be carefully considered. Keep in mind that neglecting the filter will cause the vacuum cleaner to lose power. If washing didn’t improve the situation, then all that remains is to buy a new HEPA filter for your Samsung vacuum cleaner (or another), and you will immediately breathe a second life into it. And in order to regain the former suction power, you also go to the store for a new filter.

HEPA 13 filter for Samsung

Relating to one of the highest filtration classes, HEPA 13 for Samsung, according to the manufacturer's specifications, is able to trap the smallest dust particles, that is, almost all harmful microparticles. Accordingly, the filter of this class is the most the best option. And in general, breathing well-purified air will be much easier not only for sick people, but also for ordinary, healthy people. Especially noticeable is the effect of using a Samsung vacuum cleaner with a HEPA H13 filter in a room where previously there was a cleaning unit with a filter of a low level of air purification.

Vacuum cleaners Samsung DJ97 have HEPA 13 as standard. This filter is suitable for the entire SC88 range. Also, if you want to change the filter of a lower class to HEPA 13 in another vacuum cleaner model, for example, SC65, then this can be easily done, since these filters are quite interchangeable.

HEPA filters are used not only in conventional vacuum cleaners with standard dust containers, but also in those where water is used as a dust trap. Samsung Aquatic Vacuum Cleaners with Aquafilter SD94 range have HEPA 13 exhaust filters, which should be updated periodically.

Filter care and replacement

In order for your vacuum cleaner to cope with its duties of cleaning rooms from dust and dirt, it is necessary to observe simple rules filter maintenance.

• don't forget to rinse and dry the washable HEPA filter well, otherwise your vacuum cleaner will lose a lot of suction power, and a wet filter will be a great breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. In addition, when working, a disgusting smell will come from the vacuum cleaner, which will spoil the whole effect of cleanliness in the rooms;
• the filter should be cleaned or replaced as soon as you notice an unpleasant odor or loss of suction power while vacuuming;
• if you have a disposable paper filter, then change it according to the manufacturer's recommendations, prescribed in the instructions for the vacuum cleaner;
• washable HEPA filter is also subject to timely mandatory replacement, despite the fact that, in theory, manufacturers promise an almost "limitless" service life. The PTFE filter should be changed at least once every six months. The frequency of filter changes is directly related to the amount of square meters which you will clean, as well as the intensity of use of the vacuum cleaner;
• To avoid buying the wrong filter for your vacuum cleaner, take your old filter with you to the store to find the right model. Although competent sales assistants in stores household appliances they will definitely tell you which HEPA filter is right for your vacuum cleaner only by the name of its model;
• remember, the higher the filter class, the better the room will be cleaned. If you have animals, children, people with asthma and allergies in your house, then it is better to think about a separator cleaning system.

Secrets of HEPA manufacturers

Disposable HEPA filters are made of thick paper. Here we can be sure that washing such filters is a useless and thankless task, which HEPA manufacturers immediately warned us about. The properties of paper to soak and swell from moisture make the filter completely unusable after washing. Loss of strength and deformation after drying completely destroy the ability of HEPA to filter, due to the special properties of cellulose fibers. It is generally unrealistic to dry a paper filter qualitatively, so only replacing it with a new one will be a way out of this situation.

The second type of filter is made of fluoroplast, a polymeric material. This HEPA filter is characterized by manufacturers as washable and reusable. However polymer materials are not wetted and do not dissolve in water. Consequently, many types of greasy dust, building dust microparticles, tobacco tar, etc. they simply will not be washed off the filter, but will remain on it. From this we can draw a simple conclusion that this type of filter also cannot be considered reusable, much less eternal. Yes, the material from which it is made does not deform, but it is unlikely that it will be possible to wash off the remnants of dust deposits from it.

Summing up, you can do following conclusions. HEPA filters are highly effective only at the beginning of their work. The longer and more intensively you use the vacuum cleaner, the more often you need to clean or replace the filter. The dust that will accumulate on the filters will create an ideal environment for the reproduction of various microbes and bacteria. Particles with a size of less than 0.3 microns will not be retained by the paper HEPA filter, and these are various viruses, kitchen soot, dust mites and other allergens. On the other hand, vacuum cleaners with a HEPA filter definitely have a large number of advantages over cheap vacuum cleaners without a filter system.

How to choose a HEPA filter

When choosing a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, pay attention to the classification of the filter, it should be no less important factor when buying a vacuum cleaner. Also keep in mind that what more area filter, the longer it will serve you, delaying large quantity dust microparticles. Carefully make sure that all the folds of the filter accordion are evenly distributed over its entire surface, and are not too tightly pressed against each other. Thick and tightly packed folds will interfere with the passage of air through the HEPA filter.

First of all, there is still a sieve effect, thanks to which large particles with a diameter of more than 5 microns are retained, that is, these particles can be called large only relatively even smaller ones, which are also captured by the HEPA filter. In general, purification systems with such filtration are used to retain particles with a size of 10 microns and less. Of course, the HEPA filter is also capable of retaining really large dust particles, fluff and other large pollutants. However, using a HEPA filter in this way would be wasteful, as large contaminants will quickly clog the filter fibers and reduce its effectiveness. Therefore, it is most optimal to supplement the HEPA filter with a prefilter or a system coarse cleaning, it traps large contaminants, extending the life of the main filter.

Cleaning mechanisms in such filters are based on three physical processes:

Diffusion. The smallest particles with a diameter of less than 0.1 microns, that is, their size is less than the distance between the filter fibers, are constantly in chaotic motion. Roughly speaking, their mass is so small that in addition to the general direction of air flow, their trajectory is constantly changing. As a result, when the total air flow goes around the filter fibers, the smallest particles are knocked out due to their chaotic movement and settle on the filter fibers.

Inertia. Heavier particles with a diameter of more than 0.3 microns enter the filter fibers by inertia. The total air flow goes around the obstacles that the filter material creates, and the "coarse" particles cannot quickly change direction, as a result of which they remain in the filter.

Engagement. Particles too large for diffusion and too small for inertia do not cut into the filter material as they pass through it. But thanks to the structure of microfibers, particles do not have to fall into them - just touch them. The particle clings to the fiber, the next one clings to it, and thus the cleaning of medium-sized particles occurs.

In practice, all three processes occur simultaneously and affect all particles, regardless of their size. The separation is carried out theoretically, since the effectiveness of the impact of each process on each type of particle depends on their size.

What else you need to know about the operation of the HEPA filter is the combination of the terrible words adhesion and autohesion. The first refers to the interaction of dust particles with the fibers of the filter itself, due to which the particle is deposited on the surface and no longer leaves it. Autohesion causes the particles to interact with each other, so that a new layer of contaminants is superimposed on the already existing one on the filter fibers. So the filter long time does not lose its efficiency, moreover, with time and the increase in the amount of contaminants in the filter, the efficiency of the filter also increases, since accumulations of particles already trapped form “traps” for the following contaminants. Also, depending on the properties of the filter material, the fibers can accumulate an electrostatic charge, which firmly holds all the “caught” particles, which increases the cleaning efficiency. However, with prolonged use - more than the period recommended by the manufacturer - the filter becomes clogged, it is so filled with particles that it loses the ability to pass air through itself, so it is necessary to replace the filters.

Technology does not stand still, and home appliance manufacturers are actively introducing new developments into their products. HEPA filters have become a relatively new word in the production of filtering devices.

Nera is an abbreviation for High Efficiency Particulate Arresting, translated into Russian means highly efficient particle arrest. Provides fine air purification, most often used today in the manufacture of vacuum cleaners, as well as ventilation equipment.

They were invented in the USA in the 40s of the last century, when the Americans were working on creating a device that traps radioactive particles in nuclear plants. Today they are actively used in various industries around the world.

The structure of the device is represented by a fibrous material folded into an accordion. The pores of the material depend on the class of the filter. The evaluation of the cleaning efficiency is expressed in the size of the pores that exit the device after passing through the filtration process.

Today in stores you can buy a wide selection of equipment in which a fine HEPA filter is installed. Due to it, the price of such equipment increases significantly.

Types of Hera filters - in which devices they are used

All HEPA filters are classified into two main types: disposable and reusable.
Disposable devices are made of fiberglass and paper. They are used in the production of budget vacuum cleaners, since their cost is also small, and the particle throughput is only up to 0.3 microns.

Reusable ones are made of PTFE, they are more durable than paper ones, they can be washed. Such filters are called ePTFE. They prevent the passage of contaminants up to 0.06 microns in size.

The principle of operation of the device

These filters are designed to stop particles up to 1 µm in size. The fan drives air flow, due to which foreign particles sit on the filter, including allergens: plant pollen, animal hair, fungal spores, dust mites. The cleaning efficiency can reach 99%. This figure is influenced by the thickness of the filter itself, as well as the diameter of the fiber.

The greatest effect of use is observed in enclosed spaces, where the air is driven through the filter several times. At heavy pollution the device becomes inefficient, but on average, replacement is needed every one to three years.

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Filtering is provided due to such effects as:

1. Engagement effect. Particles of any size cling to the microfibers of the filter, the next particles cling to the previous ones.
2. effect of inertia. Most noticeable on large particles. Due to their large diameter, they cannot go around the fibers, so they move straight until they collide with an obstacle.
3. diffusion effect. Small contaminants up to 0.1 microns in size can move in the opposite direction from the air flow in a curvilinear manner, thereby increasing the likelihood of stopping the particle or due to the effect of engagement or inertia.

Today, the scope of HEPA devices extends far beyond the domestic area and includes industries such as:

• aerospace industry,
• engineering,
• medicine (to ensure sterility),
• pharmaceuticals and microbiology,
• food industry,
• household appliances manufacturing,
• production of ventilation equipment.

Let us consider in more detail the use of HEPA filters in everyday life.

First of all, it is the most popular filter for household vacuum cleaners. HEPA becomes the very last stage of purification, when the air undergoes final processing before leaving the device into the room. production vacuum cleaners with hepa filter such companies as VITEK, Philips, Dyson, Zelmer, Samsung, Rowenta and others are engaged in.

It is also impossible not to say about ventilation systems, because air purifiers with non-filter allow effective particle trapping different sizes. The device is placed in a special case, impregnation with bactericidal compounds is also used in order to avoid the reproduction of microorganisms.

What particles does the Hera filter capture?

According to the degree of dust retention, devices are classified as follows:

The main difference between these devices and any other is not in the destruction of pollutants, but only in their detention. This is one of the disadvantages of HEPA, because due to the fact that biological particles remain viable, they can multiply and die right on the filter element. In this regard, they often become a source of bacteria and dangerous microorganisms.

When choosing a HEPA device, it is important to pay attention to the following points:

1. Dimensions - the larger it is in size and area, the more dust particles will be retained. Small models clog much faster.
2. Creases - they should be evenly distributed throughout the filter, there should not be too frequent and densely spaced folds that will impede the passage of air flow.
3. Cleaning class - the higher it is, the more fragile the filter material is, therefore HEPA devices are often equipped with a plastic frame.
4. Impregnation - it is recommended to purchase models treated with a solution that prevents the growth of microbes.

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How long does a Nera filter last - how to understand that it needs to be replaced

The main sources of contamination of the device are pet hair, plants, tobacco smoke and, of course, human waste. On average, manufacturers recommend changing the filter every 1-3 years, but if you are a person with lung disease or allergies, you need to change it three times more often.

The easiest way to tell if HEPA is contaminated is if the suction power of a device such as a vacuum cleaner is reduced, if it gets hot, if it smells of dust. You need to see how clean the intermediate filter is. If it does not yet require replacement, then it is the HEPA element that is contaminated.

During cleaning, sometimes there may be a smell of dust, which comes from an exhausted filter. If there is no new device at hand, the question may arise, how to clean hepa filter

Only reusable models can be cleaned, as indicated by the letter W in the name of the device.

Rinsing is carried out under strong pressure cold water, without the use of brushes and household chemicals, which can disrupt the structure of the filter element. Drying is necessary room temperature. It should be borne in mind that even reusable devices can rarely last more than two years, and even after washing it will not be possible to completely get rid of contamination.

Replaceable HEPA filters cannot be wetted with water, as they are deformed under the influence of moisture. Will not help to remove pollution and air purge. A contaminated disposable version of HEPA becomes absolutely useless, so it is not recommended to use the equipment without installing a new device.

How to replace a hepa filter - analogues

Manufacturers offer the following options as HEPA analogues:

1. Cellular pleated type FyaS - provide highly efficient air sterilization in the pharmaceutical industry, in medical institutions, scientific laboratories, food production, microbiology.
2. High-performance type FyaS-MP - cell folded devices with mini-pleated packages. High throughput and purify the air not only from microorganisms, but also from radioactive elements at nuclear power plants and in bacteriological laboratories.

In living conditions worthy analogs to the hepa filter does not exist, so if you purchased, for example, a vacuum cleaner with this device, be prepared to replace it in a couple of years. In view of the fact that HEPA is not just paper, but a special material folded in a certain way, even folk ingenuity will not help find a replacement for it.

To reduce the cost of replacing this device, it is worth purchasing only high-quality products recommended by the manufacturer of the equipment. It is also important to take care to install a pre-filter in front of the HEPA to trap large dirt particles. Otherwise, the HEPA will quickly become clogged, and it will have to be changed ahead of time.

Vacuum cleaners have long been the main cleaning assistants in the house. With the development of filtration and cleaning systems, they can not only rid you of dirt on surfaces, but also give clean air to your room.

The only problem is that filters and bagging devices often become clogged and need to be changed constantly. This can be done in a specialty store such as EasyFix, where you can find a vacuum cleaner filter for any model. There is another way out - some models require manual cleaning (or washing) of filtration systems.

Of course, this will not be written in the instructions for the vacuum cleaner, because manufacturers are interested in the user purchasing new spare parts for their devices. However, on the Internet you can find many ways to clean such parts.

HEPA

One of the most modern systems filtration today - fine cleaning, or HEPA. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that such a detail can trap dust particles with a volume of 0.3 microns, that is, very small in size. No other cleaner can do this, which is why they are often used in modern vacuum cleaners.

They are divided into two types:

• disposable (with one cycle of use and light manufacturing material)
• reusable

As it turned out, both of them can be cleaned. But the ways to clean them vary. For example, disposables should never be washed with water - they must be blown compressed air. Such a procedure can remove up to 80% of the contaminants contained in HEPA, but each time the work efficiency will decrease. Therefore, at some point it will still have to be replaced.

The situation is slightly different with the reusable Hepa. It is water resistant, which means you can clean it under running water (more than once). At home, this procedure is much easier to carry out than blowing with compressed air, and the effectiveness of this will not fall.

Bags

In combination with HEPA, it is customary to use dust bags. The fact is that their transmission capacity is able to capture large dust particles, leaving everything small for the fine cleaning system. These bags can also be cleaned.

Blowing is recommended for paper models because they simply cannot withstand washing. At the same time, synthetic and fabric dust collectors lend themselves perfectly to both blowing and washing. The only thing to start with is to clean them of large dust particles, and then use water.

Other types, such as aquafilters, should never be used with HePA as this may reduce the lifespan of the latter. Cyclone models also do not require an additional filter by their structure. In addition, cleaning such devices is usually not required.

A vacuum cleaner is one of the most essential household appliances. Without it, as a rule, not a single cleaning of the house can do. In order for the device to work flawlessly, you need to clean its filters in a timely manner. How exactly to do this and whether it is possible to wash the vacuum cleaner filter at all depends on what type it belongs to. Consider the types of filter elements and possible ways cleaning them.

In vacuum cleaners, as a rule, several filters are used:

• primary designed to collect large particles of dust and debris;
• nera, designed to collect microparticles, the size of which does not exceed 0.3 microns.

Their use in vacuum cleaners is prerequisite . This is due to the fact that they not only remove pollution, but also prevent dust particles from entering the device’s engine, thereby extending its service life.

Nera

Air filters from the smallest particles, are called nera. They are of two types:

Primary

Primary filters designed to collect debris and large dust particles are divided into the following types:

Ways to clean them

Industrial and some expensive models of vacuum cleaners have a built-in automatic filter cleaning function. However, even in them, in the process of active operation of the vacuum cleaner, it gets clogged and you have to resort to cleaning it. manual methods. These include:

• washing and washing;
• blowing, shaking and knocking out.

Only reusable filter elements can be washed, but it is forbidden to wet paper ones. To clean them, they resort to knocking out, shaking, blowing.

Moreover, this should not be done indoors, since dust particles and microbes that come out during such cleaning can cause significant harm to human health.

When washing, you need to strictly follow instructions manufacturer. Due to the fact that even with timely cleaning of filters from pollution, they can form and develop various kinds microbes, they are subject to timely replacement.

Conclusion

Filter elements in a vacuum cleaner play an important role. They protect the engine of the device from clogging with dust. During operation, they can become clogged, as a result of which, at best, it will significantly decrease, and at worst, it will simply break. To improve the suction power, it is necessary to clean the filter elements. Such an action can increase the retraction force up to 80%, but only their complete replacement will give a 100% result.