Effectiveness of filters on the particles contained in the outdoor air:

The outdoor air that enters the interior of buildings is laden with harmful particles for health. These are mostly generated by the combustion process of vehicles that use gasoline or diesel to operate. However, this air also contains bacteria, dust mites, and viruses from other sources. Therefore, the use of filters in mechanical ventilation systems is essential to prevent these elements from contaminating the environment of our homes or commercial premises.

Effectiveness of the filters

The high-efficiency double-flow mechanical ventilation systems have become indispensable elements of the most sustainable buildings. Additionally, when combined with the use of filters, they can trap pollen particles that cause allergies, harmful substances present in the air, and all kinds of microorganisms harmful to health. Among them, dust mites and mold-causing fungi.

But to what extent does the effectiveness of the filters within a mechanical ventilation system of this type reach? In the case of particles between 2.5 and 10 microns, which include dust mites, pollen, and spores, it is very close to 100%. Regarding the smaller particles (between 0.1 and 2.5 microns), it ranges between 75% and 90%.

Types of filters

Not all are the same. While some are more effective against larger particles, others offer better performance with smaller ones. For this reason, we want to talk to you about the most commonly installed filters in ventilation systems.

Activated carbon filters

Without a doubt, the best air purifiers. They are especially effective against particles of viruses and bacteria, as well as toxic gases. They also perfectly eliminate bad odors.

Electrostatic air filters

Very effective against particles of size smaller than 1 micron. Additionally, they do not negatively affect air flow, eliminate tobacco smoke, and filter soot.

Wet filters

They are made from a viscous filtering material that traps contaminating particles. Their installation is highly recommended to retain pollen, dust mites, and other allergens. Interestingly, dry filters are also very useful in this regard.

HEPA filters

The most effective and widely used today. What’s the reason? Under ideal conditions, these filters can retain 99.9% of particles smaller than 0.3 microns. Thus, their use has not only spread in homes and commercial premises, but also in airplanes and operating rooms. Even NASA has used them to purify the atmosphere of Mars through Perseverance.

Cleaning the filters

Clearly, all these filters have a certain lifespan. However, to ensure their utility for as long as possible, it is essential to clean them periodically. Specifically, every 3 to 6 months, depending on the intensity of use of the ventilation system and the environmental characteristics of the surroundings. We should do it as follows:

1. Remove the screws that hold the filter inside the system. For this, we recommend using gloves and a mask.
2. Submerge the filter in a container with water and soap for 15 or 20 minutes.
3. Put it under the tap water to remove any remaining dirt.
4. Finally, let it dry outdoors. Under no circumstances should external heat sources be used.

There’s no doubt that we could give very good advice to prevent respiratory diseases at home. However, the best of all is to recommend the installation of filters in high-performance double-flow mechanical ventilation systems. The results are excellent.