{"id":6114,"date":"2026-02-12T16:54:56","date_gmt":"2026-02-12T16:54:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/?p=6114"},"modified":"2026-08-04T17:36:02","modified_gmt":"2026-08-04T17:36:02","slug":"hepa-and-ulpa-filters","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/hepa-and-ulpa-filters\/","title":{"rendered":"HEPA and ULPA filters: differences and maintenance"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>HEPA and ULPA filters<\/strong> are essential components in the design and operation of cleanrooms, as they keep the air free of particles and contaminants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Without them, it would not be possible to achieve the purity levels required by <strong>ISO 14644<\/strong>, <strong>GMP<\/strong> or <strong>FDA<\/strong> standards. We&#8217;ll explain what <strong>HEPA and ULPA filters<\/strong> are, what their differences are, and how to properly maintain them to guarantee your cleanroom&#8217;s optimal performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What HEPA and ULPA filters are<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both <strong>HEPA filters<\/strong> (<em>High Efficiency Particulate Air<\/em>) and <strong>ULPA filters<\/strong> (<em>Ultra Low Penetration Air<\/em>) are high-efficiency filtration systems designed to capture microscopic particles suspended in the air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Their main function is to purify the air entering the cleanroom, ensuring the environment meets the cleanliness levels established by regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These filters are used in combination with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/hvac\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5763\">HVAC<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/laminar-flow-cabinets\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5750\">laminar flow<\/a><\/strong> systems, which distribute clean air in a controlled, uniform manner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Comparison table: efficiency and application of HEPA vs. ULPA filters<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although both types of filters share a common goal \u2014 removing contaminating particles \u2014 they differ technically in their retention capacity and application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Characteristic<\/th><th>HEPA Filter<\/th><th>ULPA Filter<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Meaning<\/td><td>High Efficiency Particulate Air<\/td><td>Ultra Low Penetration Air<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Minimum efficiency<\/td><td>99.97% for particles \u2265 0.3 \u00b5m<\/td><td>99.999% for particles \u2265 0.12 \u00b5m<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Typical applications<\/td><td>Laboratories, pharmaceutical industry, hospitals (ISO 7-8).<\/td><td>Critical ISO 4\u20135 areas, microelectronics, optics, biotechnology.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Operating pressure<\/td><td>Lower<\/td><td>Higher (requires more powerful fans).<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cost and maintenance<\/td><td>More affordable and easy to replace.<\/td><td>More expensive, used in the most demanding zones.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In short, ULPA filters offer superior filtration capacity, but also involve higher energy and maintenance costs. That&#8217;s why their use is reserved for environments where air purity must be extreme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How HEPA and ULPA filters work<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both filters use the same physical particle-retention principle, based on three main mechanisms:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Inertial impaction:<\/strong> large particles become trapped as they collide with the filter fibers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Interception:<\/strong> medium-sized particles adhere to the fibers as they pass close to them.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Diffusion (Brownian motion):<\/strong> the smallest particles move erratically and end up trapped through contact with the fibers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Their most penetrating particle size (MPPS) is the hardest to filter, and this is the size used to measure their real minimum efficiency.<\/strong> The result is clean, particle-free air, which is then distributed through laminar flow systems to maintain uniformity throughout the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Filter placement in a cleanroom<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>HEPA or ULPA filters<\/strong> are installed at strategic points in the HVAC system:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In the ceiling or air diffusers, to ensure that the air introduced into the room is clean.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In laminar flow cabinets or biological safety cabinets, where localized protection is required.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In return or recirculation ducts, acting as secondary filters that maintain air purity within the system.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The location and type of filter depend on the cleanliness level (ISO class) and the type of process carried out in the facility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Applicable regulations<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>HEPA and ULPA filters<\/strong> must comply with international manufacturing and validation standards, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>EN 1822 \/ ISO 29463:<\/strong> classification and testing of high-efficiency filters.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>ISO 14644:<\/strong> standards for the design and validation of cleanrooms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>GMP \/ FDA:<\/strong> specific requirements for pharmaceutical and healthcare facilities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These regulations guarantee the efficiency, traceability and safety of installed filtration systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Without HEPA or ULPA filters, it is not possible to achieve the purity levels required by ISO 14644, GMP or FDA in a cleanroom.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Preventive maintenance: key to ISO and GMP certification<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Documented preventive maintenance<\/strong> is essential for preserving the effectiveness of <strong>HEPA and ULPA filters<\/strong>. The recommended practices are detailed below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Periodic inspection<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Filters should be visually inspected and tested for integrity at least once a year, or more frequently depending on use and sector. Any damage, deformation or loss of airtightness can compromise the room&#8217;s ISO class.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Differential pressure checks<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pressure gauges or sensors should be installed before and after the filter. A significant increase in pressure indicates particle buildup and the need for replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. Controlled replacement<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Replacement of HEPA or ULPA filters must be carried out under controlled conditions, using decontamination procedures and sterile tools. The new filter must be validated through leak and airflow testing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. Cleaning and surroundings<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During maintenance, frames, seals and nearby surfaces should be cleaned with non-corrosive disinfectant products. In addition, specific clothing and protective equipment are recommended to prevent the introduction of contaminants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs that a filter needs replacement<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Loss of airflow or increased differential pressure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Particles detected by the environmental monitoring system.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leaks in the filter frame&#8217;s seals or joints.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Visible physical damage (cracks, deformation or corrosion).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exceeding the manufacturer&#8217;s maximum recommended lifespan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ignoring these signs can affect the room&#8217;s ISO classification and put production processes at risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits of good maintenance<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keeping <strong>HEPA and ULPA filters<\/strong> in optimal condition offers direct advantages:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Continuous regulatory compliance (ISO, GMP, FDA).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Energy savings and extended HVAC system lifespan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduced costs from unplanned downtime.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protection of the product, staff and environment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improved quality and process traceability.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At <strong>ISL Salas Limpias<\/strong>, we carry out maintenance and validation of <strong>HEPA and ULPA filters<\/strong>, ensuring cleanrooms maintain their performance and certification over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>HEPA and ULPA filters<\/strong> are the heart of a cleanroom&#8217;s ventilation system. Choosing the right type, installing them correctly and performing regular maintenance are essential to guarantee air purity and compliance with international regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At <strong>ISL Salas Limpias<\/strong>, we offer comprehensive solutions for the design, installation and validation of filtration systems and turnkey cleanrooms, adapted to each sector and need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Contact us for advice on HEPA and ULPA filters and specialized maintenance.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/contact\/\">Contact now<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>HEPA and ULPA filters are essential components in the design and operation of cleanrooms, keeping the air free of particles.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":6113,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[105,83,85],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6114","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cleanroom-2","category-hepa","category-hvac"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6114","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6114"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6114\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6267,"href":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6114\/revisions\/6267"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6113"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6114"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6114"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ingenic.es\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6114"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}