Post #238181 by Surf tiki on Fri, Jun 16, 2006 12:09 PM

Kaga,

If your respirator has just HEPA filters you should replace them when you notice that it is more work for you to breathe. HEPA filters actually perform better the dirtier they are, it's just more work. If it is a combo filter (HEPA and usually organic vapor) you should replace it when you notice that the smell of the organic is penetrating the cartridge (assuming that it was filtering it to begin with).

Important note: Make sure that you are wearing the respirator correctly and that you have it adjusted right. There should not be anything, such as hair, between the respirator and your skin. When adjusting it, fit it so that when you cover the cartidge inlets and breathe in it draws a vacuum on your face and holds it (it does not need to super tight to do this). Store it in a ziplock bag to prevent it from being damaged and to keep critters (like spiders) out of it.