Air Filter Replacement in Cleanrooms and Operating Rooms
In cleanrooms and surgical suites, the timely replacement of primary, medium, and high-efficiency air filters is critical. But how often should these filters be changed? How can we accurately assess the lifespan of HEPA air filters in such environments?
Based on years of hands-on experience in cleanroom maintenance, experts at Keruite Purification recommend the following practices:
Recommended Replacement Cycles
Under normal operating conditions:
- Primary (Pre) air filters: every 3 months
- Medium-efficiency air filters: every 6 months
- HEPA filters (High-efficiency): every 12 months
These intervals are general recommendations. Actual replacement frequency depends on external air quality and system usage. In hospital operating rooms with continuous 24-hour operation, filters may require earlier replacement due to heavier contamination.
Using Differential Pressure Gauges
Differential pressure gauges are installed on air handling units and cleanroom walls to monitor filter resistance. A steadily rising reading that exceeds the preset limit suggests clogging or filter failure. However, pressure data should be evaluated in combination with other factors.
According to industry standards, air filters should be replaced when final resistance doubles the initial value. Regular cleanliness tests are necessary. If air quality fails to meet requirements, a full scan of HEPA filters and system sealing should be performed. Leaky filters must be repaired or replaced promptly. Cleanrooms should also be re-inspected after extended shutdowns. Frequent replacement of pre- and medium-efficiency filters helps extend HEPA filter lifespan.
Daily Maintenance of Clean Surgical Suites
Effective maintenance ensures a clean, safe environment for surgeries. Essential procedures include regular filter replacement, air cleanliness testing, and system sealing checks, ensuring the room remains stable and compliant.
Best Practices for Maintenance
- Enforce entry control to manage personnel and material access.
- Use only powder-free gloves in laminar flow operating rooms.
- Avoid folding dressings or bringing in personal items and reading materials.
- Schedule emergency surgeries in the outermost room; infection cases near the contaminated zone.
- Maintain self-cleaning intervals between surgeries.
- Clean during system operation using wet cloths.
- Wipe all instruments before entering the OR.
- Clean and organize immediately after each procedure.
- Seal and remove waste via the designated route.
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces daily using appropriate cleaning agents.
- Clean and disinfect isolation shoes after each use.
- Perform weekly deep cleaning and monthly microbial air and surface testing, logging temperature and humidity data.
- Replace primary and medium-efficiency filters every 6 months, and HEPA filters annually.
About E-FILT – Professional Air Filter Manufacturer
E-FILT is a trusted name in the global air filtration industry. As a professional air filter manufacturer, E-FILT specializes in designing and producing a wide range of high-performance filtration solutions for cleanrooms, hospitals, laboratories, and industrial environments.
With a strong commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, E-FILT delivers reliable and efficient air filtration products that meet international standards. Whether you need standard filter replacements or custom-engineered solutions, E-FILT is your dependable partner for clean air.
