Hospital-grade Filtration
Hospital-grade Filtration | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Charleston
Imagine breathing in crisp, clean air that feels like it came straight from the mountains—right in the heart of Charleston. HEP’s hospital-grade filtration heating and air conditioning systems strip away allergens, bacteria, and even the tiniest particulate matter, circulating purified air through every room. Our advanced MERV-rated filters and UV-C light technology work around the clock, so your family can enjoy fresher air, steadier temperatures, and lower energy bills without lifting a finger.
From historic downtown homes to new waterfront builds, we tailor installations and maintenance plans that fit Charleston’s unique coastal climate. Trust our certified technicians to handle everything from duct renovations to smart-home integrations, all while putting your health first with uncompromising attention to ventilation and air quality. Ready to elevate your indoor environment? Call HEP today and feel the difference with every breath.
FAQs
What is hospital-grade air filtration, and how does it differ from standard HVAC filters?
Hospital-grade filtration typically refers to High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) or ultra-high MERV-rated filters (MERV 16-20) that capture 99.97 % of particles ≥0.3 microns, including bacteria, viruses, and smoke. Standard residential filters are usually MERV 6-8 and only trap larger dust and pollen. Hospital-grade products also feature airtight housings and medical-grade gasketing to prevent bypass, ensuring that virtually all supply air is filtered to the stated efficiency.
Why is hospital-grade filtration beneficial in Charleston’s hot, humid climate?
Charleston’s coastal humidity encourages mold, mildew, and dust-mite growth, while frequent pollen seasons and hurricane-related debris can spike particle counts. Hospital-grade filters remove microscopic spores and allergens before they circulate, reducing respiratory irritation and lowering mold-colonization risk inside ducts and coils. By pairing the filter with proper ventilation and humidity control (40-60 % RH), homes and businesses can maintain cleaner, healthier air year-round.
Can hospital-grade filters be added to my existing heating and air-conditioning system, or do I need new equipment?
Most modern ducted HVAC systems can be upgraded. We install a dedicated filter housing or modular air-cleaner cabinet in the return plenum, sized to minimize pressure drop across the blower. In tighter air-handler compartments, we may recommend a remote-mounted HEPA bypass unit that treats up to 30 % of return airflow each pass. A site assessment confirms blower capacity, duct size, and static-pressure tolerances so we can integrate hospital-grade filtration without sacrificing airflow or comfort.
How often do hospital-grade filters need to be replaced, and what maintenance is required?
HEPA and high-MERV filters load faster than standard ones. In Charleston, most residential applications require replacement every 6-12 months; commercial or healthcare settings may change filters quarterly. We measure pressure drop across the filter; a 1.0 in-w.c. increase usually signals replacement time. Maintenance also includes inspecting gaskets, cleaning pre-filters, and sanitizing the filter housing to prevent microbial growth. Our preventive-maintenance plans track dates and deliver reminders so you never miss a change.
Will upgrading to hospital-grade filtration increase my energy bills?
A properly selected filter and housing adds some resistance to airflow, which can raise blower energy use if not addressed. During installation we balance the system, may upsize return ducts, and adjust fan speeds to keep static pressure within manufacturer limits. Because cleaner coils and ducts transfer heat more efficiently, many customers see little to no net change—and some even report lower operating costs due to reduced biofilm buildup and fewer service calls.
What certifications or standards should I look for when choosing hospital-grade air-quality solutions?
1. HEPA filters should meet IEST-RP-CC001 or EN 1822 certification for 99.97 % efficiency at 0.3 µm. 2. UL 900 or UL 2998 ratings ensure the filter is non-flammable and ozone-free. 3. Equipment should comply with ASHRAE Standard 170 (Ventilation of Health Care Facilities) for airflow and filtration levels. 4. Look for ENERGY STAR-listed blowers or whole-house purifiers to verify efficiency. 5. Our Charleston technicians are NATE-certified and follow South Carolina DHEC IAQ guidelines, giving you documented assurance that your system meets stringent health and safety benchmarks.