Medical HEPA filters are the most effective method of air filtration. While True HEPA filters are classified as H10 to H12, HEPA filters considered for medical use are classified as H13 filters. These can remove up to 99.995% of particles down to 0.1 micron. As with True HEPA, medical filters must be rigorously tested before experts give them this rating.
As we know, H13 and H14 are two classifications of HEPA filters. The difference between HEPA H13 and H14 filters is simple; HEPA H14 filters are better because of their higher efficiency and lower penetration rate. When differentiating between H13 and H14 filters, it is essential that we also understand the implications of using HEPA H14 filters instead of H13 in air filtration devices. A HEPA-type filter is actually a lower version of True HEPA.
Unfortunately, because of the trademark, a HEPA-type filter can be sold under the pretext of misleading consumers into thinking that the HEPA filter is almost as effective as or as effective as the real HEPA. There are also the H13-H14 grade HEPA filters, also called medical filters. Medical HEPA filters, which are usually advertised as H13 filters, supposedly outperform normal HEPA filtration.
The only manufacturer currently offering residential HEPA H14 air purifiers is Medify Air (only one model is powerful enough for a HEPA H14 filter).
The United States, through the Manhattan Project, created the first HEPA filter in history to capture radioactive particles.In other words, these filters must remove a minimum of 99.97% of particles with a size of 0.3 microns to be considered a HEPA level filter. In your search for air filters, you may have also found one that claims to be an authentic HEPA filter. HEPA filters have received recognition for their ability to capture both PM2.5 and larger PM10 particles. The conclusion is that if a filter reaches the 99.97% threshold, it is a filtration with a HEPA level, regardless of the term that applies.
Each HEPA filter is made up of thousands of glass fibers intertwined to form a labyrinth capable of stopping microscopic particles. A HEPA filter is a type of mechanical air filter; it works by passing air through a fine mesh that traps harmful particles, such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and tobacco smoke. The carbon prefilter also captures smoke, odors, harmful gases, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which HEPA filters cannot trap. According to the DOE definition, HEPA filters can capture up to 99.97% of airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns (µm), also known as the most penetrating particle size (MPPS).
True HEPA filters are a bit more advanced, since they capture up to 99.97% of particles that measure just 0.3 microns from the air. That's why, until recently, HEPA H14 filters were only used in large commercial air purifiers for hospitals, clinics, and the pharmaceutical industry.
