HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuum cleaners are important for commercial use in locations that require high air quality and cleanliness, such as hospitals, laboratories, clean rooms, construction sites, and industrial facilities. These vacuums are constructed to remove at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, such as dust, allergies, mould spores, and other pollutants.
Types
Say hello to spotless cleaning without dangerous particles with high-quality HEPA vacuum cleaners. These vacuums come in various types, each suited for specific commercial and industrial applications. Below is a breakdown of the main types and their best applications.
Upright HEPA
Upright choices are most suitable for offices, hotels, retail stores, schools, or large, carpeted areas. Designed for cleaning carpets, these vacuums are best for reaching tight spaces and under furniture, which is an issue with the traditional versions. Not all upright alternatives, however, are created equal.
There are types with a slim 6″ profile and models that are slimmer. While some lay flat and have a slim profile, others feature a more traditional steering and manoeuvring system. Some vacuums have a specifically designed patented ball feature to address manoeuvrability even more. However, these models are more akin to older traditional uprights than the slim, lay-flat profile you see in the latest choices.
Canister HEPA
Canister HEPA vacuum cleaners are mostly utilised in healthcare, laboratories, and high-end residential cleaning. Canisters roll more freely and are typically lighter. This makes them better suited to smooth floors such as tile, hardwood, linoleum, or laminate. Canister vacuum cleaners are more compact and can be used with a wide range of attachments. Furthermore, because of their compact size, they are typically better suited for steps and other difficult-to-reach areas.
Backpack HEPA
A backpack HEPA vacuum cleaner is best for janitorial services, large commercial spaces, and theatres. They feature a high-filtration system that prevents airborne dust. These models are lightweight and have an ergonomic design for extended use. Additionally, their high mobility is a great convenience when cleaning stairs, aisles, and tight spaces.
Wet/Dry HEPA
Wet or Dry HEPAs are designed for the construction sector, mould remediation, as well as hazardous material clean-up (OSHA-Compliant). These vacuum cleaners are OSHA-approved for lead, silica dust, and mould clean-up. They have a high CFM and water lift for industrial use, and they can handle both dry debris and liquid spills effectively.
Industrial/Heavy-Duty HEPA
Industrial or heavy-duty cleaning vacuums have a large capacity of 10+ gallons and because of that they are best for cleaning manufacturing plants, warehouses and pharmaceutical facilities. They come with powerful motors for continuous heavy-duty use and have certified HEPA filtration for hazardous dust.
Filter Bags
In addition to the filters, some vacuums are beginning to offer filter bags. With each “ply”, or layer, designed differently, the bag handles a major part of the filtration. They even capture particles you cannot see. Some upright HEPA vacuums for sale have no filters but filter bags which is a positive move towards greater convenience.
Upright models lack a sealed system, whereas canisters have one but employ a more standard dust bag/HEPA filter combination. With HEPA or S-Class filtration, filter bags, or filters, you can rest assured that your vacuum cleaner will successfully trap practically all common allergens.
Sealed Systems
A vacuum filter can greatly enhance the air quality of your vacuum. However, a filter, whether HEPA or not, is only as effective as the system that surrounds it. If air leaks around the body, dust bag, or filters of a vacuum cleaner, your HEPA filter can’t ensure that the air leaving your machine is allergen-free.
Leaky systems might also result in diminished suction since air does not flow properly through the machine. It’s like trying to drink through a straw with a hole in it: it requires more energy and effort for less benefits. Look for rubber seals or gaskets around the vacuum’s lid and filter as these are two key areas where leaks can occur.
Power
The vacuum cleaner’s power, measured in amps or watts, indicates how much energy it needs. When picking a vacuum cleaner, do not base your decision on the amount of amperage utilised. The amperage of electricity used by the motor has nothing to do with the vacuum’s suction power. The airflow determines the suction power, which is rated in CFM or, in some models, air watts.
Air Flow
Airflow is the force generated by moving air that picks up dirt and transfers it into a bag or dust container. It is often measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute). Better vacuum cleaners have higher CFM ratings and are typically more expensive. Some HEPA vacuum manufacturers also use air watts to measure airflow. However, since air watts are not a universal measurement, they are best used to compare Dyson models.