| 1 | Airflow rating | Rated airflow for the exact filter size, configuration, and intended installation; ask for the corresponding pressure-drop data. | Compare products at the same airflow and test conditions. Airflow capacity is product- and system-dependent; a rating without its test conditions is not directly comparable. |
| 2 | Initial pressure drop | Initial resistance in pascals (Pa) at the stated airflow, plus the test method and whether the value applies to the complete filter or media alone. | Pressure drop affects fan energy and available airflow. Compare like-for-like dimensions, airflow, and test conditions rather than treating a single value as universal. |
| 3 | Efficiency classification and test | For HEPA products, request the declared class and a test report identifying the applicable standard, product model, and test conditions. | EN 1822 and ISO 29463 classify high-efficiency filters using performance at the most penetrating particle size (MPPS). For example, EN 1822 classes H13 and H14 specify integral efficiencies of at least 99.95% and 99.995%, respectively, at MPPS. |
| 4 | Leakage and individual filter testing | Ask whether each finished filter is individually tested, what leak-test procedure is used, and whether the report can be traced to the supplied unit or batch. | High-efficiency filter classification and leak-testing requirements depend on the applicable standard and filter class. Confirm the exact procedure and acceptance criteria rather than relying on a general “tested” claim. |
| 5 | Service-life basis | Request the recommended final resistance or replacement criterion, operating assumptions, and any documented service-life data for comparable applications. | There is no single service life that applies to every HEPA filter. Dust loading, humidity, airflow, upstream filtration, and operating conditions can change replacement timing; replacement should follow the equipment and site maintenance plan. |
| 6 | Construction and materials | Confirm media type, separator or separatorless construction, frame material, sealant, gasket, dimensions, and compatibility with the installation environment. | Material suitability depends on temperature, moisture, chemicals, cleaning procedures, and mechanical requirements. Request the material specification for the actual product configuration. |
| 7 | Dimensional fit and sealing | Request dimensional tolerances, gasket location and material, installation orientation, and details of the housing or mounting interface. | Correct fit and sealing are essential to prevent bypass around the filter. Verify compatibility with the installed housing, not only the nominal filter dimensions. |
| 8 | Documentation and traceability | Check for a current datasheet, test report, batch or serial identification, inspection records, and clear revision control. | Confirm that documents identify the supplied model and match the ordered size, class, and construction. A generic certificate may not establish the performance of a specific product. |
| 9 | Quality control and change management | Ask how incoming materials, production, final inspection, nonconformities, and design or material changes are controlled. | Request evidence relevant to the product and manufacturing site. Any quality-system certificate should be checked for scope, validity, and issuing body. |
| 10 | Delivery and after-sales service | Compare quoted lead time, packaging for transport, export documentation, replacement availability, technical support, and warranty terms. | Confirm delivery commitments and support coverage for the destination market in writing. Packaging should protect the filter from damage and contamination during storage and shipment. |