HEPA Filters ~ How often should you change them?

Most cleaning professionals know vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters (high efficiency particulate air filters) can help protect indoor air quality. These filters capture the smallest of particles, 99.97 percent of the time. They can trap smoke, molds, bacteria, dust mites, pollen, and other particles.

HEPA filtration is a great advantage used in modern vacuum cleaners because it removes harmful particles from the air that can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms. However, this filtration method is only effective if properly maintained. Taking good care of your vacuum and performing routine maintenance will ensure a clean and healthy environment.

Over time, HEPA filters need to be replaced. This is crucial for the vacuum cleaner to operate at optimal performance. However, because HEPA filters can last a fairly long time, it is not uncommon that you simply forget to change them.  In fact, if you fail to replace the HEPA filter in your vacuum cleaner, it can actually cause a loss in suction and an increase in allergies or asthma due to particles released into the air. If you use a bagless vacuum cleaner, you will need to pay more attention to the filter. While the advantage of not having to replace bags is great, bagless vacuums tend to be a lot less efficient in filtration than bagged machines. Harmful particles can easily escape back into the air from these machines due to a lack of sealed filtration.

If you use a bagless vacuum (like a Dyson ball) you’ll want to replace the filter every 3-6 months as needed. Some filters offered in these machines will be washable. If this is the case, make sure to wash the filter as often as a normal filter would be replaced in order to avoid dirt buildup.

When replacing the filter, users should contact the distributor where it was purchased or the manufacturer directly. And always select the HEPA filter designed for that specific machine and model.