H13 HEPA filter vs true HEPA

When comparing H13 HEPA filters to True HEPA filters, it’s essential to understand their differences in filtration standards and performance:

Filtration Efficiency:

True HEPA Filter: A True HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter must meet strict U.S. Department of Energy standards, capturing at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. These filters are widely used in air purifiers for home, medical, and industrial environments.
H13 HEPA Filter: H13 is a higher grade of HEPA filter, classified under the European EN 1822 standard. It can capture 99.95% of particles down to 0.1 microns. This makes H13 filters more efficient at trapping smaller particles, including certain viruses, fine dust, and aerosols.

Particle Size and Range:

True HEPA: The filtration threshold for True HEPA filters is focused on particles 0.3 microns and larger, such as pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and some bacteria.
H13 HEPA: The H13 filter captures finer particles, down to 0.1 microns, offering protection against a broader spectrum of airborne pollutants, including ultrafine dust, smoke, and some viruses.

Applications:

True HEPA: Commonly found in household air purifiers, these filters are ideal for general use in homes and offices where pollutants like allergens and dust are prevalent.
H13 HEPA: Due to its higher filtration efficiency, H13 HEPA is typically used in more demanding environments like hospitals, laboratories, and cleanrooms where air quality is critical.

Cost and Longevity:

True HEPA filters are generally more affordable and widely available in consumer-grade air purifiers.
H13 HEPA filters are more expensive due to their enhanced filtration capabilities and are often used in professional-grade purifiers or specialized equipment.

H13 HEPA filters offer superior performance in capturing smaller particles, making them suitable for high-risk or sensitive environments. True HEPA filters, while highly effective, are better suited for everyday air purification needs where ultra-fine particle filtration is not as critical.