HEPA Air Purifiers: A Comprehensive Guide

HEPA, which stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air, signifies a filter capable of removing the majority of small particles from the air passing through it. This makes it a crucial component in air purifiers, enabling them to effectively filter out pollutants. This article explores various HEPA filter air purifiers, offering detailed specifications and maintenance tips.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has established standards for HEPA filters, requiring them to remove at least 99.97% of particles with a diameter of 0.3 micrometers (μm). This ensures a significant improvement in indoor air quality. Beyond air purifiers, HEPA filters are widely used in vacuum cleaners, HVAC systems (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), and medical devices. However, it’s important to note that HEPA filters are not very effective at removing gases, odors, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air.

The popularity of HEPA filter air purifiers has surged in recent years. To select the best air purifier for optimal performance, consider the following factors:

1. HEPA Filter Grade

HEPA filters are typically constructed from fiberglass folded into a dense surface. Based on their filtration efficiency, HEPA filters are categorized into four grades: HEPA 10, 11, 12, and 13, with filtration efficiencies of 85%, 95%, 95.5%, and 99.7%, respectively. For the best filtration, choose a HEPA filter grade 13 to effectively capture even the smallest, invisible particles around 0.3 micrometers.

2. Dimensions and Weight

Consider the dimensions and weight of the air purifier when purchasing. For larger spaces like offices, classrooms, or spacious rooms, opt for models taller than 20 cm and weighing over 2 kg. For smaller areas like cars or desks, a compact unit under 15 cm tall and weighing less than 1 kg would be more suitable.

Note that the size of an air purifier doesn’t directly correlate with its coverage area. Use this guideline to estimate the appropriate room size based on the air purifier’s coverage:

• Around 5 m²: Ideal for small rooms and cars
• 24–40 m²: Suitable for medium-sized rooms like bedrooms
• Over 40 m²: Perfect for large rooms like living rooms, family rooms, or halls

3. Noise Level

To minimize disruption, consider an air purifier with a noise level below 60 dB. However, the noise level can vary depending on the speed mode. High-speed modes typically generate more noise, while low or sleep modes offer quieter operation.

4. Additional Features

While a high HEPA filter grade is a key selling point, many air purifiers offer additional features to enhance usability:

• Timer: Set the air purifier to run for a specific duration (e.g., 2, 4, or 8 hours), after which it will automatically shut off.
• UV Sterilizer: This feature neutralizes airborne microorganisms like viruses, germs, and bacteria. The UV lamp targets pathogens trapped in the HEPA filter.
• Air Quality Monitoring: Premium air purifiers often include real-time air quality monitoring with various indicators, allowing you to assess the air quality before and after use.
• Child Lock: This feature disables the control panel buttons, preventing children or pets from accidentally altering the settings.

Recommended HEPA Air Purifiers

The market offers HEPA filter air purifiers at varying price points, ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of rupiah, depending on the product’s durability and features. Here are some highly-rated options across various brands:

• Sanken SAP-580: This model effectively cleans and purifies the air with user-friendly touch controls. It features three-speed levels and a child safety lock. Suitable for rooms up to 48 m³, it incorporates pre-filter, HEPA filter, and activated carbon filter for optimal removal of bacteria, viruses, and pollution. Price: Rp1,999,000.

• Arashi: Compact, durable, and energy-efficient, this air purifier is suitable for rooms up to 30 m² and consumes 56 watts. It utilizes pre-filter, HEPA H13 filter, and activated carbon to filter large particles like pet dander and dust, as well as 99.9% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. It also eliminates odors and absorbs harmful substances like benzene and formaldehydes. Price: Rp786,300.

• MEVAL: Known for providing comfortable and clean air, MEVAL air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters are suitable for spaces up to 40m². Equipped with anti-allergy and anti-bacterial filters, it traps pollutants and eases allergies by filtering pet dander, dust mites, pollen, and tobacco smoke. The carbon filter eliminates dust, allergens, and small hazardous particles. Price: Rp172,500 – Rp782,000.

• Levoit LV-H128: Known for dual HEPA grade 13 filters, a humidifier with aromatherapy, and a sleep mode with a noise level of only 30 dB. It has a compact design that can cover up to 15 m² with a clean air delivery rate (CADR) of 68 m³/h. Price: Approximately Rp1,000,000.

• Covenant AP-05: Suitable for small living spaces. This model utilizes a HEPA 13 filter lasting up to 3000 hours. With three adjustable speed modes, it operates quietly at 40 dB. Price: Approximately Rp400,000.

• Philips 800 Series: Featuring a two-layer filter (Nano-Protect HEPA and pre-filter), this air purifier removes 99.97% of viruses and pollutants as small as 0.003 microns. It offers a CADR of 190 m3/h. Price: Approximately Rp2,000,000.

• Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Compact: Uses dual filter technology (electrostatic and mechanical) to eliminate 99.99% of airborne particles as small as 0.1 microns. Suitable for rooms up to 48 m2. Price: Approximately Rp1,000,000.

• IT S280: Equipped with a five-layer filtration system (pre-filter, active carbon, HEPA filter 13, anti-bacterial layer, and cold catalyst), it effectively removes odors from smoke and more. Price: Approximately Rp1,400,000.

• Samsung AX53 BESPOKE Cube Air Purifier: Designed for larger spaces (up to 53 m²) and equipped with PM sensors. Price: Approximately Rp7,400,000.

• SHARP FP-F30Y: This model uses a plasma-cluster generator to break down airborne microorganisms. Price: Approximately Rp1,200,000.

• Dyson TP7A: A uniquely designed air purifier with HEPA 13 filter that can cover areas up to 81m2 with Air Multiplier technology. Price: Approximately Rp8,900,000.

• WINIX Zero S: Suitable for rooms larger than 70 m2. It features a four-stage filtration system including WINIX PlasmaWave® technology that neutralizes viruses and more without producing dangerous ozone. Price: Approximately Rp3,000,000.

• Hafele Air Purifier CF-8209: Supported by pre–filter, HEPA 13, and UVC lamp, that can cover areas up to 60 m² with a rate of 350 m³/h. Price: Approximately Rp11,000,000.

HEPA Air Purifier Maintenance Tips

To ensure long-lasting performance, proper maintenance is essential:

• Filter Removal: Turn off the device and take it outside before removing the filter.
• Cleaning Pre-filters: Wash pre-filters with running water. Use a toothbrush or wet sponge to clean fine wire filters. Wash activated carbon filters, dry with a towel, and let it air dry for 24 hours.
• HEPA Filter Cleaning: Use a vacuum cleaner to gently clean the HEPA filter horizontally.
• Exterior Cleaning: Wipe the exterior with a soft cloth dampened with mild soap.
• Air Vent Cleaning: Use a soft brush to clean the air vents.
• Drying: Allow the air purifier to dry completely before reassembling and using it.

Looking for an air purifier with a HEPA filter? This list provides a range of options, along with their specifications.