As of January 2017, the new global test standard ISO 16890 for filter testing and assessment replaces the previous standard EN 779 and will be the only valid filter standard from July 2018.

ISO 16890 is a new test method for air filters

Comparison to EN 779

This new method for the evaluation of air filter elements will be determined with regard to the particle classes PM1, PM2,5 and PM10, which are also used as evaluation parameters by the WHO (World Health Organization) and environmental authorities.

The new standard classifies the filters in 4 groups

ISO16890 defines testing procedures and a classification system for air filters used in general ventilation equipment. This new standard provides the first opportunity for global harmonization as it proceeds to replace the two existing standards; ASHRAE 52.2 which is dominant in USA and EN779:2012 which is dominant in Europe.

Major differences between ISO 16890 and existing standards

• The new test procedures are done in a way to closely mimic real-world filter performance.
• The classification system will identify the filter performance based on three different sizes of particles, <1µm, <2,5µm, and <10µm.
• In many ways the new test procedures according to the new standard are more demanding than previous methods. This will lead to higher filter performance and due to that, better indoor air quality and improved human health.

Why a new standard?

As Systemair we are changing our filter definitions according to the new standard. In the below table 1.1 you can find common old definitions of EN 779 standard and correlating new definitions for the ISO 16890 standard and also a link to a more in-debth presentation of the new ISO 16890 standard.

Our most common selection of filter standards