Installation Standards & Best Practices Flashcards

NAFA best practices specify that filter media should be protected from moisture during storage. What relative humidity level is considered the maximum safe storage condition?

Answer: 60% RH

Filters should be stored below 60% relative humidity to prevent microbial growth on filter media and degradation of adhesives and frame materials.

When installing v-bank (minipleat) HEPA filters, which orientation of the media pleats relative to the airflow is correct?

Answer: Pleats must be vertical (perpendicular to floor) to allow condensation drainage

Vertical pleat orientation allows any condensation to drain out of the filter rather than pooling in the valleys, which would cause media degradation and microbial growth.

What is the correct method for handling a HEPA filter during installation to avoid media damage?

Answer: Carry and support the filter by its rigid frame, never touching the pleated media face

HEPA filter media is extremely fragile; handling by the frame prevents pinhole punctures or pleat damage that would create leaks and cause the filter to fail integrity testing.

When commissioning a new air handler with freshly installed filters, what is the correct startup sequence?

Answer: Start at reduced airflow, verify readings, then ramp to design flow

Starting at reduced airflow allows differential pressure readings to be verified and any installation issues to be corrected before the system reaches full design velocity.

What does NAFA recommend regarding filter installation in systems that operate continuously 24/7?

Answer: Changeouts should be scheduled during planned low-usage periods to minimize air quality disruption

Scheduling filter changes during planned low-usage or maintenance windows minimizes the exposure of occupied spaces to unfiltered air and provides safer working conditions for technicians.

What type of sealant is appropriate for sealing gaps between a HEPA filter frame and a non-standard housing in a pharmaceutical cleanroom?

Answer: Non-outgassing, low-VOC cleanroom-grade sealant

Cleanroom environments require non-outgassing, cleanroom-grade sealants that do not introduce volatile organic compounds or particles that could contaminate the controlled environment.

According to NAFA installation standards, what is the maximum recommended face velocity for a standard 2-inch pleated panel filter?

Answer: 500 FPM

Standard 2-inch pleated panel filters are typically rated for face velocities up to 500 FPM; exceeding this can cause media deformation and increased particle penetration.