Important Tips About the HEPA Filter for your Vacuum Cleaner
Monday, September 15th, 2008Owning a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filtration system is one of the wisest steps to take if you want to maintain the cleanliness of your home. This filtration system performs with one of the highest levels of effectiveness when it comes to sucking up undesirable pollutants and particulates. However, it is important that while the vacuum cleaner is doing its job, the homeowner must also do his job. That particular job involves maintaining the efficiency of the HEPA filtration system through proper care.
Since this system can undergo a minor breakdown if it is not properly maintained, cleaning the filter is extremely important. It is recommended that this task take place after every other use of the vacuum cleaner. Before cleaning the filter you should read the instructions provided in the user manual for your vacuum cleaner. Additionally, clean out the dirt bin at the same time for the best results.
In general, cleaning the HEPA filter is relatively simple. Always unplug the machine before you begin. Take the vacuum cleaner to an area next to a dustbin or bring the dustbin over to the machine. Remove the central filter carefully and gently shake it over the dustbin. It might be necessary to use a dust brush to loosen the dirt. If it is, perform this task gently as well.
The HEPA filter itself should be replaced at least once each year in order to maintain the optimum performance of your vacuum cleaner. Since the filter is constructed with a number of channels that can easily become clogged, it is essential to replace it annually. Unfortunately, if you have not been cleaning the filter on a regular basis, it will most likely need to be replaced even earlier.
If the HEPA filter is not properly maintained, the vacuum cleaner can cease to function properly. In particular, a blocked filter that results from improper maintenance can lead to a reduced airflow. In turn, this reduced air flow can lead to an overheated motor, which will lead to a thermal cut out. The thermal cut out forces the vacuum cleaner to cut out. Once this happens, it will be necessary to wait at least an hour for the motor to cool down before using the vacuum cleaner again. Additionally, the HEPA filter must be cleaned at this point or even replaced if it has become too clogged to clean properly.