HEPA, or High-Efficiency Particulate Air filters, are a crucial component in improving indoor air quality. These filters operate based on a high-standard, defined by the U.S. Department of Energy, which necessitates that they remove at least 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns in diameter from the air that passes through them.

This capability is especially important in environments where air purity is critical, such as hospitals or homes with allergy sufferers. The mechanics of HEPA filters involve a complex web of fibers that trap particles through several different mechanisms: interception, impaction, and diffusion. This blend of mechanisms makes them effective against pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and certain viruses and bacteria, hence significantly improving the indoor air quality. Additionally, for optimal performance, it’s important to maintain and replace these filters as recommended by manufacturers, as clogged filters can reduce air flow and filter efficiency.