EN 1822 Leak Testing: What the Certificate Should Show

When you are specifying or receiving high-efficiency filters, the certificate is part of the job, not just paperwork. For mechanical contractors and quality managers, it is the quickest way to confirm that the filter supplied matches the application, the test method and the serial number on site.

An EN 1822 document should make it easy to trace the filter, understand what was tested and see whether the results suit the intended use. If any of that is unclear, it is worth querying before the filter is installed.

What EN 1822 is checking

EN 1822 is the test standard commonly used for HEPA and ULPA-type filters. In plain terms, it is designed to show how a high-efficiency filter performs when challenged with very fine particles, and whether any leaks are present in the filter media, frame or seals.

For project teams, the key point is that the certificate should not just name a product. It should show the actual test outcome for that specific filter unit.

You should expect the document to make clear:

• •the filter identification
• •the test method used
• •the efficiency class achieved
• •the scan or leak test outcome
• •the serial traceability back to the individual unit

If the certificate is vague, incomplete or looks like it belongs to a generic product line rather than one filter, ask for clarification before acceptance.

The scan test result: the part that matters most

The scan test is there to identify local leakage across the filter face and sealing areas. This is one of the most useful parts of the certificate because it shows whether air bypassed the filter media at any point during testing.

A good certificate should show that the filter was scanned and that the result met the stated requirement for that product class. Depending on the format used by the manufacturer or test laboratory, you may see the scan test presented as a pass result, a measured leakage result, or a statement that the filter passed the leak check under the standard test method.

Look for clear detail on:

• •whether the filter was scanned across the full face
• •whether the perimeter seal and frame area were included
• •whether the result was acceptable for the declared class
• •whether the result applies to the individual serial number shown on the certificate

If the document only gives a class rating with no scan test information, it may not be enough for high-risk or tightly controlled applications.

Efficiency class: make sure it matches the job

EN 1822 efficiency classes are the headline figure most people look at first, but they need to be read carefully. For HEPA filters, H13 is at least 99.95% efficiency at the most penetrating particle size, and H14 is at least 99.995% at the most penetrating particle size. Those figures matter because they tell you the declared performance level of the filter under the EN 1822 method.

A certificate should clearly state the class, such as H13, H14 or another relevant EN 1822 classification. It should also show that the class is tied to the test result, not just printed as a product description.

That is especially important when a project specification refers to a particular filtration level. The mechanical services engineer or building owner should confirm site requirements, including any alignment with AS 1668.2:2024 where relevant to the ventilation design.

If the certificate lists an efficiency class that does not suit the specified application, do not assume it can be treated as equivalent to another rating system. EN 1822, MERV and ISO 16890 do not convert directly.

Serial traceability: how to know the certificate belongs to your filter

Traceability is what links the certificate to the exact filter that arrived on site. Without it, you may only have a general test record for a model range, which is not the same thing as proof for the unit in front of you.

A proper EN 1822 certificate should include enough identification to match the document to the physical filter. Depending on the manufacturer, that may include:

• •a unique serial number
• •a batch or production code
• •the filter size or dimensions
• •the model or part reference
• •the test date or production date

For contractors, this matters during inspection, handover and maintenance. For quality managers, it gives a clear audit trail if the filter needs to be checked later against project records.

If the serial number on the certificate does not match the label on the filter, stop and investigate before installation.

Other details worth checking on the certificate

The certificate format can vary, but there are a few other details that are worth confirming before you sign off the delivery.

Test standard and method

The document should state that EN 1822 was used, and ideally make clear whether the filter was tested as a single unit or as part of a production run. If the wording is too broad, ask for the detailed test record.

Filter dimensions and configuration

Make sure the size on the certificate matches the installed frame or housing. This is a practical check, but it also helps avoid confusion when more than one size is being used across a project.

Notes on sealing or installation method

Some certificates or accompanying documents include notes about the correct orientation, gasket type or installation position. These are worth reading closely, particularly where the filter is fitted into a critical housing or a tight access space.

Evidence for acceptance

If you are receiving filters for a project file, keep the certificate with the delivery paperwork. That makes it easier to reconcile with inspection records, service reports and later replacement orders.

Why this matters for contractors and quality managers

For mechanical contractors, the certificate is part of proving that the right product was supplied and installed. It helps reduce confusion on site, especially when several filter classes, frame types or sizes are in circulation.

For quality managers, the certificate supports document control. It gives you a record that can be matched to the filter in service, rather than relying on a generic label or warehouse description.

A strong certificate also helps when planning ongoing inspection. The replacement or servicing interval should always depend on the system, the site conditions and the dust load, and it should follow the filter and equipment manufacturer instructions. Where pressure gauges are fitted, monitor pressure drop as part of normal maintenance.

Getting the right filter documentation from the start

If you are ordering high-efficiency filters for a new build, retrofit or ongoing maintenance program, ask for the certificate format before the order is released. That way, you can check that the scan test result, efficiency class and serial details are all included before the filters arrive.

If you need a custom size, a specific frame type or help matching the product to the housing, Total Air Filtration can help with custom air filters, our products and filter servicing. We are a family-owned air filter manufacturer and supplier based in Hillcrest, Brisbane QLD, established in 2009.

Need help matching the certificate to the filter?

If you want a second set of eyes on an EN 1822 certificate, or you need the right filter supplied or made for your project, Total Air Filtration can help. Call 07 3800 3448 or request a quote.

You can also contact us for help with product selection, or view the industries we supply to see where our filters are used.