FAQs

In order to create a negative pressure environment, more air must leave the space than enters it. First of all, the construction area must be walled off with a barrier such as Abatement's temporary wall solution, SHIELD WALL™.  Secondly, the Abatement Portable Air Scrubber(s) must be placed inside the construction area. Ductwork should be run from the system to somewhere outside of the construction area, preferably to the outside of the building. Since the air is HEPA filtered, it is not mandatory to exhaust air to the outdoors.

Six or more air changes per hour (ACH) are recommended for effective air cleaning during construction and renovation work. To determine the amount of airflow and the number of PREDATOR or HEPA-AIRE PAS units required for your project,view the air change calculator for facility construction and renovation projects in healthcare facilities.

The general rule of thumb is that at least 10% more air must be exhausted from the area than is supplied to it. For example, if 500 CFM is coming in through the facility's HVAC system, then at least 550 CFM must be filtered and exhausted by the PAS.

Air flows from a higher pressure to a lower pressure. The PREDATOR or HEPA-AIRE PAS creates a negative pressure in the room so that airborne particulates are pulled towards it and filtered out. The negative pressure prevents particulates from leaving the room you want to cleanse and contaminating adjacent areas. Room pressure differences must be monitored and maintained to be effective. The most reliable and sure way to confirm that pressure relationships are correct is to continuously monitor differential pressure using Abatement’s PPM3-S Portable Differential Pressure Monitor.

Since Abatement Technologies Portable Air Scrubbers pull the air through a true HEPA filter tested and certified to a minimum efficiency of 99.97% @ 0.3 microns before it is exhausted from the containment space, there is no requirement that they be exhausted to the outdoors.

Yes, when equipped with special 2-inch deep VAPOR-LOCK® carbon filters available for all PREDATOR and HEPA-AIRE PAS models. These high-performance filters provide substantially more absorption capacity than most other carbon filters and meet most odor control requirements. Special carbon blends are also available for capturing odors from low molecular weight compounds for which carbon has limited effectiveness.

All models (PREDATOR and HEPA-AIRE) are equipped with HEPA filters that are tested and certified to remove 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns and larger, to provide "operating room clean" filtered air. To put this in perspective, the diameter of a human hair is 50 to 200 microns, and fungal spores are typically five to 25 microns. For a complete list of particulate contaminants and odors that the Portable Air Scrubber can remove, please Contact Us.

According to the latest 2003 CDC Guidelines for Environmental Infection Control in Health-Care Facilities HEPA filtration is required for the capture of microbial spores and other contaminants that can potentially cause fungal infections and Aspergillosis. Airborne bacteria and fungi are typically 3 microns (0.0001”) and smaller in size, small enough to easily pass through most filters. Air filtration devices must, therefore, be equipped with true HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, designed to capture at least 99.97% (9,997 out of 10,000) particles as small as 0.3 microns (0.00001”) in size.

Yes. To meet Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology IEST-RP-CC001.3 standards for Type A 99.97% efficiency HEPA filters, each and every completed filter must be individually tested for leakage and resistance, to detect any leaks in the media or between the media and the frame or other problems that can compromise the integrity of the completed filter. Test results must be shown on a label on the filter frame. Filter frames should be metal. The 2003 CDC Guidelines state that: “Wood (HEPA frames) can compromise the air quality if it becomes and remains wet, allowing the growth of fungi and bacteria,” and recommends replacing these filters with metal-frame filters. Filters should also meet UL900 Class II flammability requirements.

NAMs and Scrubbers are durable, powerful, and easy to maintain. Both can be used on their own to reduce contaminants in the area or with ducting to create negative or positive containment. NAMs are designed for asbestos abatement and mold remediation where scrubbers are designed for construction where drywall dust heavily loads the filters. Although they perform the same function, they have distinct design features that make them better suited for different situations. Three important factors in the selection of a HEPA unit are (1) the cost, (2) the concentration of particulates in the construction zone, and (3) the required ease of transport, device size, and weight.

Definitely. Abatement PAS units can be used to continuously filter and recirculate 100% of the filtered air within the construction area. This will boost the ACH in the room and provide HEPA filtration, but will not change room pressurization. All models can also be configured to create positive pressure.

Yes. Surfaces should be frequently cleaned with a HEPA vacuum to further reduce the chance that harmful particles could migrate out of the area and become airborne again. Check out our vacuums.

The size and concentration of airborne contaminants, temperature, humidity conditions and duration of use determine how often filters need replacement. As the filters become loaded with particulate matter, the airflow capacity of the unit decreases and the static pressure differential across the filter increases.

Abatement Portable Air Scrubbers are equipped with easy-to-read filter change indicator lamps that illuminate when filters should be replaced. Unlike gauges, these lamps do not require operator interpretation or calculations. Average filter life (with continuous operation):

Primary filter: 1 day

Secondary filters: 3-7 days

HEPA filter: 800 hours

Abatement PAS can potentially save users up to $10,000 or more over the life of the unit compared to other systems, including low-priced (and generally low-quality) “economy” products. Four main factors contribute to these savings:

Longer filter life because the filters provide exceptional dirt-holding capacity

Lower replacement filter costs

Lower labor costs due to higher productivity

Minimal downtime. By any measure, this is an excellent return on investment.

What does Abatement mean by “aircraft-type construction”?

Our stainless steel units are manufactured using solid rivet construction, for the same reasons aircraft manufacturers use them–solid rivets are exceptionally strong, durable and leak-resistant. In addition, closed-cell neoprene gaskets between the two layers of metal further ensure that critical seams are airtight. Sheet metal screw, hollow pop rivets, or nuts and bolts are far cheaper, but they are also far more prone to failure and leakage. Would you want to fly on an airplane made that way?

All systems are covered by a comprehensive limited warranty to the original user against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year after date of purchase. This warranty excludes filters, which are consumable items that require ongoing replacement.

We do our best to keep all Abatement Portable Air Scrubbers in stock for same day or next day shipment when possible.  You will be notified immediately of the estimated delay should we experience extremely high demand and the system you order happens to be out of stock.

Abatement Technologies has sold critical air filtration equipment to hospitals, clinics and other health-related facilities since the mid-1980s. We developed our first HEPA-CARE systems for infectious patient isolation rooms in 1992. Since then we have worked with more than 5,000 facilities throughout the U.S., Canada and overseas to help them solve their infection control requirements in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Our experienced sales consultants can help you decide which model or models to select, and what other accessory products are required or recommended. Abatement HEPA-Care Portable units, which can be relocated from room-to-room as needed, provide maximum flexibility, and are therefore ideal for shorter term surge-capacity requirements. As a general rule of thumb, our HC800C Ceiling-Mounted Model is ideal for longer term applications because it is completely out of the way of staff, and takes up no floor space. It can also be used to meet CDC requirements for point-of-use HEPA filtration of supply air to positive pressure isolation rooms (PE). Both types of units are designed for point-of-use HEPA filtration of exhaust air from negative pressure AIIR rooms.

Unlike HEPA-CARE systems, general-purpose recirculating air cleaners are simply not designed to meet the critical infection control requirements in accordance with CDC, UL, CSA, OSHA and AIA. Features include true, metal-frame HEPA filters that are 100% tested to ensure that they provide minimum filtration efficiency of 99.99% @ 0.3 microns, “zero bypass” construction, and the ability to operate in negative pressure, positive pressure and recirculation modes. HEPA-CARE Air Purification Systems are Class II medical devices and are safety certified by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory.

Absolutely not. In many units, HEPA media filters are constructed with inexpensive particleboard frames that can warp, crack, off-gas and support microbial growth. In many instances, completed filters are not tested in accordance with Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology IEST-RP-CC001.3 and MIL-STD 282. Damage to the media pack or leakage between the media pack and the filter frame that might compromise overall efficiency can therefore go undetected. The true Type C (99.99% efficiency @ 0.3 microns) gel seal HEPA-CARE filters are constructed with extruded anodized aluminum or galvanized steel frames, have a UL900 Class I flammability rating and meet IEST and MIL standards, including 100% testing. The unique silicone gel seal provides a more secure, bypass-free seal than other designs. Read the facts about true HEPA filtration.

This will vary depending on the size and concentration of contaminants, temperature and humidity conditions, and duration of use, but “change pre-filter” and “change HEPA” LEDs on the electronic control panel of our HEPA-CARE systems eliminates any guesswork. With continuous use, average primary filter life is one to two months. Timely filter changes are essential. When filters become loaded with particulate matter, the static pressure differential across the filters increases and the airflow output of the unit decreases. Regardless of the amount of use, the HEPA filter should be replaced every two years to ensure ongoing performance.

A ½” hex wrench is needed to access the filter compartment and prevent unauthorized access. Once this is done, filters are extremely easy to change and no tools are required.

No. All HC800C filters are room-side accessible via a hinged, swing-down access door, so tiles do not need to be disturbed. The same holds true for the UV lamps in the UV400C-PT and UV400C UV modules.

The CDC recommends 99.9% removal efficiency in the patient room. With 12 ACH, the waiting time should be approximately 30 to 40 minutes, but a one-hour minimum is a good policy adopted by numerous health care facilities.

Complete, pre-packaged isolation room kits including the HEPA-CARE unit, a pressure monitor and other accessories are available.

Not any longer. The 2003 CDC Guidelines describe these rooms as “unreliable”, especially in the negative pressure mode, and specifically recommend against their use in new construction or renovations. The Guidelines also discourage the use of these rooms in existing facilities.

CDC requires at least 12 ACH in any renovated or new isolation rooms (PE or AIIR), a minimum of 6 ACH in existing isolation rooms and at least 15 ACH in operating rooms (including 3+cfm of fresh air). Most facilities target at least 12 ACH even in existing rooms. One or more HEPA-CARE systems may be needed, depending on the size of the room in cubic feet (length x width x height to the drop ceiling). As with any air filtration device (AFD), factors such as filter loading, attached collars or ducting and reduced voltage to the motors will decrease actual delivered airflow. Click for the Air Change Calculator to determine the number of HEPA-CARE units needed to produce ACH.

We recommend that you wipe down the system with a water-based germicidal. Although changing the pre-filters between patients is not required, it is recommended for portable units that could be moved to another room. If filters are not changed in portable units, it is advisable to seal off the openings around the inlet door before the unit is moved. Many facilities replace the pre-filters between patients in all units, including ceiling mounted models.

The 1994 CDC TB Guidelines recommend quantitative leakage and filter performance testing after installation and every six months thereafter, or whenever the HEPA is replaced. This is a good guideline. Most facilities use the same company that tests and certifies biological safety cabinets.

Abatement Portable In-Room Systems should be positioned at a maximum distance from the door to the corridor so as to create a directional airflow away from the corridor and the healthcare worker. Abatement Ceiling-Mounted Systems are generally installed over the patient's bed and should be located as far as possible away from the room supply air diffuser to minimize "short-circuiting" of air.

Short-circuiting occurs when the air supplied to the room by the facility HVAC system passes directly into the HEPA Filtration System without first being circulated through the room. This can reduce the effectiveness of the system for reducing airborne concentrations of TB droplet nuclei within the room.

Yes. CDC requires daily room differential-pressure monitoring, but this may be insufficient to catch pressurization problems on a timely basis. Our state-of-the-art continuous electronic monitors eliminate the need for daily, time-consuming smoke tube testing, provide continuous real-time monitoring, and a 24/7 record of these conditions. Learn more about Abatement Technologies HEPA-CARE Room Air Pressure Monitors for Negative or Positive Pressure Patient Isolation Rooms.

In general, the CDC Guidelines include design parameters for isolation rooms with and without anterooms. Anterooms are recommended for certain special situations, such as isolating a TB patient after surgery, or isolating smallpox or viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) patients. The 2003 CDC Guidelines illustrate two options for these situations, one with a neutral anteroom and one with an anteroom under negative pressure related to both the patient room and the corridor. If a room with an anteroom is not available, CDC recommends using portable HEPA units in the room to provide additional ACH equivalents. Learn more about Portable Anteroom Modules from Abatement Technologies.

No. Isolation rooms depend on air that infiltrates into the room (for negative pressure) or out of the room (positive pressure) through the gap under the door and through other small openings. It is not necessary to replace drop ceilings with solid ceilings to maintain sufficient differential pressure and ACH.

We do our best to keep enough inventory on-hand for shipment within 24 hours. Very large orders that must ship complete may require additional time. You will be notified if there are any anticipated delays at the time of order placement.

Abatement stands behind its products. All systems are covered by a comprehensive limited warranty to the original user against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of two years after date of purchase. Over the past 20+ years HEPA-CARE systems have proven to be extremely reliable, and both warranty and non-warranty repair requirements have been very minimal.

In most instances they are virtually identical: identify infectious or potentially infectious patients, and isolate them in negative pressure infectious patient isolation rooms. The same principles apply. That’s what makes HEPA-CARE systems so versatile.

UV dosage, which is typically expressed in microwatts per square centimeter, is based on four factors:

Direct exposure to the UV-C irradiation source

The intensity of the UV-C source

The distance away from that source

The duration of exposure

Because organisms in rapidly moving airstreams are exposed to the UV-C source for only fractions of a second, effective disinfection requires very high-intensity UV-C output and very close proximity to the lamps. This is especially true for more complex organisms such as fungi, which typically require five to 20 times more UV-C energy to destroy than bacteria.

Studies have shown that UV-C dosage decreases by approximately the square of the distance from the lamp. In other words, compared to dosage one inch away from the lamp, dosage is four times lower at 2 inches away, sixty-four times lower at 8 inches away and 144 times lower at 12 inches away. In some air filtration systems, organisms that pass the lamps or are trapped on the media can be as far as 12 to 48 inches away from the lamp.

This would be highly doubtful because the lamp can't kill what it can't "see". HEPA filters are designed with very closely spaced pleats, with typical pack depths of anywhere from three to four inches up to 12 inches. It's highly unlikely that a lamp or lamps shining on the inlet face of a HEPA filter would expose microorganisms trapped on the inlet surfaces of the pleated media pack much beyond the first half-inch to one inch of depth, especially for pleats that are farthest away from the lamp(s). As a result, effectiveness would likely be limited to only a small percentage of the media area.

Filtration systems that do not pre-filter air before it gets to the lamp(s) and the HEPA filter can expose the lamp(s) to larger dust and dirt particles. This can result in the formation of a dirt film deposit on the quartz glass and significantly reduced UV-C intensity. In addition, agglomerated dirt particles that form on the HEPA filter media can reduce airflow and filter capacity, shorten filter life and further block UV-C exposure to organisms that may be trapped beneath them. With the design of an Abatement HEPA-CARE Air Purification System, air is pre-filtered and HEPA-filtered before it is exhausted into the UV-C module, thus maximizing UV intensity to kill microorganisms.

Yes, but then the pre-filter media must be protected from exposure to the lamp(s). High-intensity UV-C radiation can rapidly break down and pulverize most pre-filter media, especially synthetics, cotton and blends. Exposed components such as electrical wiring and rubber gaskets can also be degraded if not protected properly. HEPA media is much more UV-resistant, but lamps must be still kept far enough away from the media to ensure that the UV-C energy won’t destroy filter integrity by breaking down filter binders and adhesives, and won’t cause VOC off-gassing.

Because direct UV-C lamp exposure can seriously damage the eyes or the skin, extra precautions are needed to ensure that patients, healthcare workers or maintenance personnel are not exposed to the UV-C lamps during normal use or when replacing filters. This is a much more difficult task when the lamps are located on the inlet side of the HEPA filter. With our design, the separate UV-C modules keep the lamps isolated from the filter compartment and are accessed only about once a year for lamp replacement. Built-in safeguards, such as electrical interlock switches, instantly deactivate the lamps when the access door is opened. It is also very important to ensure that the overall unit has been safety tested and certified by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) such as UL, ETL or CSA. Abatement's germicidal UV-C modules meet this requirement.

In the USA, OSHA safety standards for general industry and construction and the National Electrical Code require testing and listing (certification) of electrical products to applicable standards. It is important to note that this testing must be performed on an electrical device even if the individual electrical components used in that device are all listed or approved. Testing must be done by an OSHA-recognized NRTL, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories), ETL (Environmental Testing Laboratories) or CSA (Canadian Standards Association). In Canada, The Standards Council of Canada has adopted standards for the Canadian Electrical Code developed on its behalf by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). Third party testing from a laboratory or other organization, not NRTL-certified is not acceptable, even if such testing is done to applicable standards.

Unless a unit is properly tested, users have no way of knowing whether it is properly and safely designed to meet the requirements of the applicable electrical codes. It is wise to require written vendor verification that the products you purchase are NRTL certified.

No. Unfortunately, many of the air filtration systems sold to and used by contractors, healthcare facilities and others are not certified, especially negative air machines.

HEPA is an acronym for "High-Efficiency Particulate Air" or "High-Efficiency Particulate Arrestance." This acronym refers to a filter that is manufactured, tested and certified to meet Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology (IEST) construction, performance and certification standards as currently published in IEST RP-CC001.3.

The first HEPA filters were developed for the Atomic Energy Commission during World War II for use in facilities manufacturing components for the Manhattan (atomic bomb) project. These HEPA filters were originally designed to capture microscopic radioactive particles too small for effective removal by existing types of filters. HEPA filters used today are much more efficient and economical than the products made in the 1940's.

HEPA filters are generally specified for applications where microscopic airborne particles or biopollutants could cause human health or product quality problems. Typical users include military, nuclear, pharmaceutical, electronics, biological and medical facilities.

The ultra-fine, glass-fiber medium captures microscopic particles that can easily pass through other filters by a combination of diffusion, interception and inertial impaction. To qualify as a Type A HEPA filter, the filter must capture at least 99.97% (9,997 out of 10,000) of particles 0.3 microns in size–about 300 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair, and 25 to 50 times smaller than we can see. To a HEPA filter, catching a one-micron particle (1/1,000,000 of a meter) is like stopping a cotton ball with a door screen.

Laser particle counter measurements typically show that more than 99% of the particles suspended in indoor air are one micron (1/1,000,000 of a meter) or smaller in size. EPA calls these “lung-damaging” particles, because they can lodge deep in the lungs when inhaled. The ability of HEPA filters to capture particles this small is what sets them apart from other types of filters. Regulations developed by EPA, OSHA, CDC and other federal, state and local government agencies responsible for human health and IAQ issues specify HEPA filters for asbestos, lead and mold abatement, TB and SARS isolation rooms and healthcare renovation projects.

Manufacturing a filter with HEPA filter media does not mean that the filter itself meets true HEPA efficiency requirements. Serious filter leakage can go undetected if filters are not individually tested and certified at the end of the manufacturing process. Even the tiniest pinhole leaks in the media or breach of the seal between the media pack and the filter frame can cause the filter to fail IEST requirements. The testing requires very specific procedures using a thermally generated mono-dispersed aerosol and a laser particle counter. Some regulations also require field-testing by the user prior to going into service and periodically thereafter.

Filter efficiency studies have shown that 0.3-microns is the "Most Penetrating Particle Size (MPPS)" for HEPA filter media. Efficiency is typically greater than 99.97% against larger or smaller particle sizes. Particles larger than 0.3 microns are typically more easily trapped or intercepted, by the media. Smaller particles often lack sufficient mass to penetrate the media.

No. In fact, the differences are huge. According to the American Lung Association, filters classified as "HEPA-type" filters may capture as little as 55% of 0.3-micron particles (5,500 out of 10,000). By this definition, the true HEPA filter could be more than 1,800 times as efficient as the "HEPA-type" filter.

No. Unlike electronic air cleaners and other air purification technologies that experience substantial loss of efficiency as they become dirty, exactly the opposite typically happens with HEPA filters. In fact, the dirtier a HEPA filter gets, the more efficient it can become.

Abatement Technologies has a comprehensive instructional video Here.

We can also refer you to some excellent hands-on training programs.

Yes. We have found that the average monthly lease payment for a complete equipment package is equivalent to the revenue of one residential duct cleaning. Contact us for more information.

Abatement HEPA-AIRE Vacuums are designed and engineered to be essentially maintenance-free, other than filter changes. In the highly unlikely event that a component of the control panel or the motor needs to be replaced, the modular design allows the user to make the change in a matter of minutes. AIRE-SWEEP Compressors are custom-manufactured for Abatement Technologies by a manufacturer with hundreds of authorized service centers located throughout the United States.

Abatement Technologies is so confident in our product quality and workmanship that we offer a comprehensive 5-year limited warranty on all HEPA-AIRE Portable Power Vacuums. These are the longest warranties in the industry. The compressors have an excellent 2-year limited warranty.

Abatement's duct cleaning products have been setting the industry standard since 1990. These products are used by more than 4,000 companies throughout all 50 US states, Canada and in more than 35 countries worldwide. It is estimated that these companies have cleaned the duct systems in more than 2 million homes and commercial buildings and have generated over $2.5 billion in duct cleaning revenues

The performance, quality, and reliability of this product are crucial to the quality of the work and ultimately the success of the business. Some of the most important factors include:

Overall quality

Airflow with all filters in place (rated by cfm)

Vacuum static lift capability (rated by inches of w.c.)

Filtration system efficiency and filter replacement costs

Weight

Overall size

Portability

Appearance

Component ratings and quality

Amenities such as corner bumpers, non-marking tires, stair climber, etc.

Construction methods and materials

Manufacturer's support and reputation

Warranty

HEPA-AIRE systems are “over-engineered” to ensure many years of reliable operation. With reasonable care, a useful operating life of 10 years or more can be expected.

Unfortunately, there are no meaningful standards, and published claims and methods used are all over the map. Some manufacturers use the “free air” rating for the blower, or test airflow with the filters removed, methods which obviously indicate a much higher airflow than the equipment is capable of producing under normal operating conditions. A few companies have even begun to publish test results based on air velocity testing, which can be even more misleading. For example, the airflow of a machine that is rated at 3,000 fpm (feet per minute) with an 8" diameter outlet is only producing about 1,000 cfm. All of Abatement's performance claims are based on independent testing under real-life conditions with all filters in place.

Make sure that you are making “apples to apples” comparisons, and that all airflow testing has been done with all filters in place and by a reputable independent testing company. Be very skeptical of any self-testing, and always ask for documentation. Also, use common sense. Like anything else, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

A high-powered compressor is essential for quality source removal duct cleaning. The AIRE-SWEEP nozzle is propelled throughout the entire duct system and used to continuously blast the ductwork with high-pressure blasts of air to dislodge debris and push it into the powerful air stream created by the power vacuum. With a sufficiently powerful vacuum, the debris will be pulled out of ductwork and into the vacuum's filtration system. This “push-pull” technique is the state-of-the-art method that is practiced by a vast majority of reputable duct cleaners.

An underpowered compressor can significantly increase job time and reduce cleaning quality. Compressors with a volume output of less than 16 cfm and pressure output of less than 175 psi are simply not powerful enough to effectively clean ductwork. Gasoline compressors with at least 8 horsepower engines or electric models with 5 horsepower electric motors are generally required. However, it is imperative that output specifications of the compressor–not engine horsepower–be considered when evaluating compressor performance.

These products have limited applications in small, round ducts that are easily accessible. However, real-life conditions often make it difficult if not impossible for “brush with a hose” products to produce acceptable results. In some cases, these products can potentially worsen the situation since the very low airflow (typically only 100-200 cfm at most) is not sufficient to pull contaminants dislodged by the brush out of the ductwork. The 3" to 4" diameter vacuum hose greatly limits their ability to handle the quantity, weight, and size of debris generally found in air ducts. In addition, the configuration of many duct systems makes it impossible to use a rotary brush or a hose without getting hung up on obstructions within the duct. This is particularly true of panned-in returns and other difficult to access ductwork locations.

Promoting this service to your current customer base is generally the quickest and most productive way to get started. Abatement Technologies has an entire range of professionally produced marketing materials, including brochures, mailers, postcards, door hangers, ad slicks, DVDs, etc., to enable you to begin an effective and successful marketing program immediately.