Do HEPA Filters Remove VOCs?

05.03.2025

Akshay Sadiora

The air you breathe inside your home is not as safe and fresh as you think. In reality, there are multiple studies that have shown that indoor air is more polluted than outdoor air. Indoor air pollution is becoming a big problem as it traps the pollutants inside your living or working space. There are many different kinds of harmful airborne particles, like dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores. These pollutants can be incredibly dangerous for your health. It can cause multiple health-related problems like coughing, sneezing, allergies, asthma, and other kinds of respiratory problems.

Other than that, it can also increase the risk of dangerous diseases like heart attacks, strokes, and cancer. Another big problem is VOCs (volatile organic compounds). These compounds are emitted from paints, cleaning products, furniture, and even cooking. It can cause short-term and long-term health problems. It is essential to improve your indoor air quality by using air filters in your HVAC system. However, there are many different types of air filters, and each one of them works in its own unique way. There are HEPA air filters, activated carbon filters, electrostatic filters, and UV air filters. Among these, HEPA air filters are highly popular for trapping even the smallest of airborne particles and improving air quality.

However, this brings the question of whether HEPA filters are effective against VOCs. HEPA filters can effectively trap tiny particles, but can they work against gases like VOCs? In this blog, you will gain complete knowledge about what HEPA air filters are, what VOCs are, and why they matter so much. You will also get the answer to your question: Do HEPA air filters remove VOCs? Additionally, you will learn about the best alternatives for removing VOCs, including activated carbon filters, air purifiers with multi-stage filtration, proper ventilation, and natural solutions like houseplants. Finally, you will discover how to choose the best air purifier for VOCs to improve your indoor air quality.

What Are HEPA Filters?

High-efficiency particulate Air filters, also known as HEPA filters, are highly advanced air filters that are specifically designed for removing tiny airborne particles from the indoor air. These air filters use a pleated design for trapping pollutants like dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and other kinds of harmful pollutants. These amazing air filters can trap particles that are as small as 0.3 microns with an efficiency of 99.97 percent. Because of this quality, HEPA filters are considered a great option for improving indoor air quality in homes and offices.

However, you need to make sure that your HEPA filters are working efficiently. For that, you need to regularly maintain and make a schedule for replacing your air filter from time to time. By regular usage, HEPA air filters will get clogged by trapped particles. This will create multiple problems, such as reducing the airflow and making them less effective. Using dirty air filters can also force HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems to work harder. This will lead to higher energy use and lower performance.

What Are VOCs, And Why Do They Matter

Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs for short, are the harmful gases that are released from certain solids and liquids that are most commonly found in every household and industrial product. The most common items that emit VOCs are paints, cleaning solutions, furniture, air fresheners, glues, and many more. There are times when they emit VOCs even when they are not in use. These compounds can easily become airborne because of their high vapor pressure. It leads to indoor air pollution, which can be even worse than outdoor levels of air pollution.

VOCs are quite common and found in everyday products; lots of people often get exposed to them without even realizing the risks that they pose. These VOCs are nothing like dust, pollen, and other airborne particles that can be easily trapped by air filters. VOCs are harmful gaseous pollutants that require specialized filtration. If a person is exposed to it for a long time, then it could lead to multiple health problems like respiratory issues, headaches, dizziness, and even serious health risks like organ damage.

HEPA filters are highly effective at trapping dust, pollen, mold, and other airborne particles. However, they cannot help in removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These HEPA air filters are made to trap particulate matter (PM) that does not consist of solid or liquid particles present in the air. On the other hand, VOCs can easily pass through the fine mesh of a HEPA filter without being captured. Because of this, the filtration of HEPA air filter becomes quite ineffective in eliminating chemical fumes, odors, and harmful gases from your indoor environments.

VOCs are released in the air from common household things like items of furniture or industrial products like paints, cleaning agents, glues, and cements. These gases can circulate in your indoor space, especially in the poor ventilation areas. It will eventually lead to unhealthy air quality. Long-term exposure to VOCs will lead a person to suffer from breathing problems. It can also cause other issues like irritation of the eyes and throat and can worsen your allergies and asthma. So, if you are looking to capture solid pollutants like dust and pollen, then you can choose HEPA air filters, but for dealing with VOCs, an HEPA filter is not the best choice.

Best Alternatives For Removing VOCs

Even though HEPA air filters are great for trapping dust and allergens, they do not remove VOCs and gaseous pollutants. However, there are many other effective ways to get rid of these harmful chemicals. You can use simple solutions that can help improve indoor air quality. Read below to find out the best ways to eliminate VOCs and create a healthier living space.

1. Activated Carbon Filters

Using activated carbon filters is one of the most effective ways to remove VOCs. These filters have a highly spongy structure, allowing them to adsorb the molecules of VOCs and trap these harmful gases. The carbon material works like a sponge in capturing pollutants instead of just filtering them out. This makes activated carbon filters an excellent option for reducing chemical odors, fumes, and airborne toxins. However, regular replacement is essential because once the carbon becomes saturated, it loses its ability to trap VOCs and other pollutants.

2. Air Purifiers With Multi-Stage Filtration

You can also use air purifiers with multi-stage filtration for better air cleaning. These air purifiers can combine HEPA filters with activated carbon filters. This will not only protect you by trapping particulate matter but can also eliminate VOCs and odors. Some of the models also include Ultraviolet C (UV-C) light with amazing technology for neutralizing even more pollutants. Choosing an air purifier with both HEPA and activated carbon filters ensures that you have better indoor air quality. However, always make sure to check and replace the air filters when necessary.

3. Proper Ventilation

One of the most important things that you need is to have proper ventilation in your indoor space. This lets you have fresh air in your home, which is the simplest way to reduce VOCs. The gases emitted from cleaning supplies, furniture, glues, bonds, and paints are quite dangerous when inhaled for a long time. Simply by opening windows or using exhaust fans, you can increase your ventilation and replace the polluted air with clean and fresh air. You can install a ventilation system that can improve the quality of the indoor air.

4. Houseplants And Natural Solutions

There is ongoing debate about whether houseplants can effectively remove VOCs. There are several studies that show that there are certain types of plants, like peace lilies, spider plants, and snake plants, that can help absorb certain airborne chemicals. While plants alone are not enough to eliminate VOCs, they can be a useful natural addition to other air-cleaning methods. In addition, using low-VOC paints, non-toxic cleaners, and natural materials can help prevent VOCs from accumulating indoors, making your home safer and fresher.

Choosing The Best Air Purifier For VOCs

Removing VOCs from indoor air requires an air purifier with the right filtration system. Since HEPA filters only capture particles, the best option is an air purifier with an activated carbon filter, which absorbs gaseous pollutants like chemicals and odors. When choosing a purifier, look for one with a thick activated carbon filter rather than a thin coating, as more carbon means better VOC removal. Some purifiers also include air quality sensors, which detect pollutants and adjust settings automatically for better indoor air quality. A unit with adjustable fan speeds and a high Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) ensures faster air purification.

Besides using an air purifier, you can further reduce VOCs by keeping your home well-ventilated. Open windows whenever possible and use exhaust fans in areas where VOCs are released, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Choosing low-VOC products like paints, furniture, and cleaning supplies also minimizes exposure. Regularly replacing air filters keeps your purifier working efficiently. By combining carbon filtration, ventilation, and smart product choices, you can significantly improve indoor air quality and reduce harmful chemical exposure.

Conclusion

Improving indoor air quality is essential for a healthier home, especially when dealing with VOCs. While HEPA filters are excellent for trapping dust and allergens, they do not remove VOCs. Instead, activated carbon filters are the best choice for absorbing these harmful gases. In this blog, you have learned what HEPA filters and VOCs are, why VOCs are dangerous, and how to remove them effectively. Using air purifiers with activated carbon filters, improving ventilation, and choosing low-VOC products can help reduce exposure. By selecting the right air filtration method and maintaining clean air, you can create a safer and fresher indoor environment for yourself and your family.

If you are looking for the best air filtration solutions, then you can trust us. We at Custom Filters Direct help you to keep your indoor air clean and safe. Whether you need HEPA filters for dust and allergens or activated carbon filters to remove harmful VOCs. We have all kinds of high-quality air filter options to fit your needs and desires. Our premium air filters help you improve indoor air quality and make sure that your home or office stays healthier. You can purchase our amazing air filter by visiting our website. For any questions, you can contact us at info@customfiltersdirect.com or give us a call at 877-958-5612. Our experts will offer you their advice and suggest the best filter solutions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Test My Indoor Air For VOCs?

You can test your indoor air for VOCs (volatile organic compounds). You can use a home test kit or hire a professional service. Home test kits let you collect air samples and send them to a lab for results. They are easy to use but may not always be accurate. Professional testing is more detailed and reliable but costs more. Before testing, look for things that might release VOCs, like new furniture, paints, or cleaning supplies. Keeping windows open and using fans can help lower VOCs. You can also use air purifiers with activated carbon filters to reduce these chemicals. If you are unsure, talking to an air quality expert can help.

Do All Air Purifiers Help With VOC Removal?

Not all air purifiers can remove VOCs (volatile organic compounds). HEPA filters are great for trapping dust and allergens but do not work well for VOCs, which are gases. Activated carbon filters are more effective because they can trap and hold VOCs. Some advanced air purifiers use special technologies like photocatalytic oxidation to break down harmful gases. However, carbon filters can get full over time and need to be replaced regularly. The best way to lower VOCs is to reduce their sources, like choosing low-VOC products and keeping your home well-ventilated. Always check if an air purifier is designed for VOC removal before buying it.

How Long Do VOCs Stay In The Air?

VOCs (volatile organic compounds) can stay in the air for a few minutes to several months, depending on the product and room conditions. Paint fumes may fade in days, but VOCs can continue releasing for up to six months. Materials like new furniture and flooring may release VOCs for years. Poor ventilation and high humidity can make VOCs linger longer, while fresh air and fans help remove them faster. Long-term exposure may cause headaches, dizziness, and breathing issues. To reduce VOCs, use low-VOC products, keep windows open, and avoid sleeping in freshly painted rooms. Activated carbon air purifiers can also help absorb VOCs.

How Does Humidity Affect VOC Levels Indoors?

High humidity can make VOCs (volatile organic compounds) release into the air faster, affecting indoor air quality. When humidity levels are high, materials like paint, furniture, flooring, and cleaning products release more VOCs, which can cause headaches, dizziness, and breathing issues. Studies show that chemicals like formaldehyde become more concentrated in humid conditions, making the air less healthy to breathe. Homes with poor ventilation or water damage often have higher VOC levels, which can worsen over time. To reduce VOC exposure, keep humidity between 30-50%, use fans and open windows for fresh air, and choose low-VOC products. Removing old paint cans and harsh cleaners can also help. Managing humidity is key to creating a healthier home environment.

Which Household Items Release The Most VOCs?

Many common household items release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can affect indoor air quality. Paints, varnishes, and new furniture give off high levels of VOCs, especially when they are new. Cleaning products, air fresheners, and scented candles contain chemicals that can stay in the air for a long time. New carpets, flooring, and pressed wood furniture may release formaldehyde and other VOCs. Dry-cleaned clothes, hobby supplies like glue and markers, and gas stoves also add VOCs to the air. To reduce exposure, choose low-VOC products, improve ventilation, and use air purifiers. Keeping windows open and using natural cleaning options can help create a healthier indoor environment.

Are VOC Levels Higher In New Homes Or Buildings?

Yes, VOC (volatile organic compound) levels are usually higher in new homes and buildings because new materials release chemicals into the air. This process, called off-gassing, comes from paints, adhesives, flooring, insulation, and furniture. The “new house smell” is a result of these VOCs. Over time, VOC levels drop as materials dry and settle. Good ventilation, air purifiers, and low-VOC materials can help reduce exposure. Formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene are common VOCs found in new buildings. High levels of VOCs may cause eye irritation, headaches, and breathing issues, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. Opening windows and using natural materials can create a healthier indoor environment.

Do VOCs Have A Smell, And How Can I Detect Them?

Some VOCs (volatile organic compounds) have a smell, while others are odorless, making them hard to detect. A strong smell does not always mean a VOC is dangerous, and the absence of smell does not mean VOCs are not present. Xylene and formaldehyde have noticeable odors, but benzene is odorless. The best way to detect VOCs is by using air quality test kits or sensors. Headaches, dizziness, or eye irritation may also signal exposure. Improving ventilation, using air purifiers, and choosing low-VOC products can help lower VOC levels. If you suspect high VOC exposure, professional testing may be a good option for accurate results.

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