Frequently Asked Questions
What is a HEPA vacuum?
HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate vacuums are vacuums that contain filters that trap extremely small particles.
A high-quality HEPA vacuum can trap 99.99 percent of all airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns.
When vacuuming, you’re probably trying to remove dust from your home. A good HEPA vacuum keeps dust trapped inside and doesn’t through dust back into the air.
Is a HEPA filter vacuum worth it?
Yes, if you suffer from asthma or have allergies, a vacuum with a dust-removing HEPA filter is a great bang for your buck. Not only will your living environment be free of dust and allergens, you’ll be able to focus better, be more productive, and breathe cleaner air.
Why are HEPA filters so expensive?
HEPA filters have to move enough air to pull small particles into the air stream and through the filter media. HEPA filters also require extremely dense media.
How We Review HEPA Filter Vacuum Cleaners
At Onedesk, we have a 4-step researching and reviewing process for the vacuums we recommend.
When reviewing HEPA vacuums, we went through our researching process thoroughly to ensure the products which make the list will improve the air quality of our readers’ homes. So, onto the process.
First, we researched the models that are available on the market to see which brands appeared most frequently and which brands didn’t.
Second, we made a list of over 50 potential vacuums with HEPA filters that could make our review.
Third, we removed any vacuums that were too expensive or had bad reviews.
Fourth, we reviewed all 40 vacuums we liked. Our goal was to filter out any vacuums that didn't suck up everything in their path.
Hoover vacuums made the list for the best HEPA vacuums. We also reviewed the best Hoover vacuums separately to show the difference between each unit.
What are HEPA filters?
HEPA means ‘High-Efficiency Particulate Air’. It is a label applied to filters that can trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. HEPA filters are known to improve the air quality in your home and help you live in the most clean environment possible.
The HEPA test and certification process was first established in 1983. The development of HEPA filters first started during WW2.
You probably didn’t know that the US created the first HEPA filter which was intended to capture radioactive scraps released while creating the atomic bomb.
This was happening during the Manhattan Project. Eventually, experts found out 0.3 micron particles escaped air filters, which meant vacuums didn’t fully suck up all the dust in the air.
Nowadays, HEPA filters are designed with interlaced glass threads. These threads are bent and twisted in multiple directions to produce a threadlike maze, and as particles cross this web, they are then taken out of circulation.
How do HEPA filters work?
Below is a brief overview of how HEPA filters works:
- Sieving: The airstream carries a particle between the two fibers. Then, the particle gets trapped because it is bigger than the gap.
- Direct Impaction: Big contaminants move in a direct trail, hit a fiber, and then end up clinging to it.
- Diffusion: Tiny particles are more likely to hit and cling to fibers since they travel more unevenly than bigger particles.
- Interception: Due to inertia, particles remain on their track and quickly stick to the sides of the fibers.
Best Bagged HEPA Vacuums
Now that you know which HEPA vacuums are worth buying, it's now time to learn specifically which bagged HEPA vacuums are worth buying.
- Kenmore 31140 Pet-Friendly Lightweight Bagged Vacuum
- Hoover UH30600 WindTunnel Max Bagged HEPA Upright Vacuum
- Atrix Turbo Red Canister Vacuum Cleaner w/HEPA Filter
- Kenmore Elite 817714 Pet Friendly Ultra Plush Lightweight Bagged Vacuum
How To Buy The Best HEPA Filter Vacuum
Below is a guide to help you buy the best HEPA vacuum available on the market.
Weight
Make sure the vacuum you buy isn’t too heavy, otherwise you’ll likely have a hard time using and holding it. Look for HEPA vacuums which weigh between 5-13 pounds.
Noise
If you don’t know already, some vacuums are loud, and I mean it. Some HEPA vacuums are too, which is why you should look for models that are quiet. To make things easier for you, we did the researching and reviewing for you, so you can easily choose your favorite model.
Power & Suction
Now that you know to look for a lightweight and quiet HEPA vacuum, you should know that the HEPA vac you buy needs to be powerful.
In general, most vacuums have a decent amount of power in them. However, some HEPA vacuums we reviewed that didn’t make the list had weak motors and didn’t stand up to lots of dirt and debris.
So, just make sure the HEPA vac you buy is known as a powerful vacuum. This will ensure that you won’t need to pass over surfaces multiple times.
Brand
Look for a HEPA vacuum that is made by a well-known brand. This extra step will ensure that the vacuum you buy is trusted and used by many others.
Wrapping Things Up
Now, you know which HEPA vacuums are right for you and your living environment. Whether you need to remove dust from your carpets, or you are just looking for a powerful HEPA vacuum that cleans carpets and floors, the vacuums in this list will definitely improve air quality.
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