When comparing air purifiers, you often encounter the term "HEPA13." But what exactly does that number mean, and why is it more relevant than just the term "HEPA filter"?
The European standard EN 1822
The number 13 does not refer to a marketing choice, but to a specific class within a standardized test series. Each class in this series represents a defined minimum capture efficiency, measured under controlled laboratory conditions using particles of exactly 0.3 micrometers, the size at which filters are least effective.
HEPA filters are classified in Europe according to the EN 1822 standard, which categorizes filters into classes based on their capture efficiency for the most difficult particle size (0.3 micrometers). The scale runs roughly as follows:
- E10 to E12 (EPA): efficiency between 85 and 99.5 percent, often used in cheaper devices.
- H13 and H14 (HEPA): H13 captures at least 99.95 percent, H14 at least 99.995 percent.
- U15 to U17 (ULPA): even higher efficiency, primarily used in industrial and laboratory environments such as cleanrooms.
Why HEPA13 is the standard for living spaces
HEPA13 is often described as "medical-grade" filtration, because this level is also applied in hospitals and healthcare facilities. For home use, this is more than sufficient: it filters at least 99.95 percent of fine dust, pollen, bacteria, and viruses of 0.3 micrometers, exactly the particle size that is most difficult to filter. Smaller and larger particles are generally captured even more effectively.
HEPA13 versus a filter just called "HEPA"
Please note: not every filter that is called "HEPA-like" or "HEPA-style" has actually been tested and certified according to EN 1822. Some manufacturers use the term loosely for filters that do not meet the HEPA standard. An explicit class designation such as H13 or H14 indicates that the filter has actually been tested against the standard.
What does this mean for respiratory complaints and allergies?
Many people with hay fever or other respiratory complaints notice that a HEPA13 filter contributes to less dust and pollen in the air. This is not a medical guarantee and an air purifier does not cure conditions, but removing particles that can trigger symptoms is perceived as pleasant by many users.
HEPA13 versus American "True HEPA" claims
In the United States, the term "True HEPA" is often used, based on an American standard that assumes a minimum capture efficiency of 99.97 percent for particles of 0.3 micrometers. That is a slightly different test method than the European EN 1822 standard, but in practice, the performance level is close to that of HEPA13 to HEPA14. The most important thing is that a concrete percentage and a particle size are mentioned, rather than just the vague term "HEPA-style" or "HEPA-like," which does not have to follow any standard.
HEPA13 in the PA244
The Dynter AirPure Plus PA244 is equipped with a HEPA13 filter, part of a 4-stage filtration system, which according to specifications captures 99.97 percent of fine dust, pollen, bacteria, viruses, and microplastics. With a CADR of 260 m3/h and suitability for up to 55 m2, the device is designed to deliver this filtration level continuously in an average living room or bedroom.
Our advice: when comparing air purifiers, always check whether a concrete HEPA class (such as H13) is mentioned, rather than just the general term "HEPA filter." View the full specifications of the AirPure Plus PA244 as an example of a concretely substantiated HEPA13 filter.