Will You Save Money using Generic Air Filters vs. a HEPA filter?
Summary:
Companies making air filters must adhere to rigid manufacturing standards in order to use the HEPA name. HEPA is the standard. Be suspect of any filter offered at a cheaper price.
More Detail:
You may see claims like:
"HEPA-type"
"HEPA-like"
"99% HEPA"
Watch out for inferior products.
The Department of Energy has rigid requirements manufacturers must pass to meet HEPA requirements. The HEPA specification requires removal of at least 99.97% of 0.3 micrometers airborne pollutants.
In-Depth Reference(s)
Article:
The Seven Sins of Filter Manufacturers
Buying Considerations:
I would recommend sticking with the original manufacturer's replacement HEPA filter unless you are certain that the replacement filter is either a HEPA or up to the standards that the HEPA label represents.
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