G3 or F7: which ventilation filter should you choose?

Quick answer: G3 is a coarse filter; F7 provides finer particle filtration. The key is approval for your specific unit. JESSP DZ and Easy+ use F7, Vario 160 comes with G3 and optionally accepts F7, while Vario 110 uses G3 and is not compatible with the JESSP F7 replacement.

What is the practical difference?

G3 and F7 come from the former EN 779 classification. G3 primarily captures larger contaminants such as fluff and insects and protects the unit. F7 targets finer particles; the JESSP description includes pollen and fine dust.

General ventilation filters are now classified under ISO 16890 using particle fractions such as ePM1, ePM2.5 and ePM10. There is no simple one-to-one conversion from the old classes. Eurovent Recommendation 4/23 uses measured efficiency ranges rather than a blanket equivalence.

G3 and F7 at a glance

JESSP compatibility

• Eco Smart DZ: F7, with matching replacement available.
• Eco Smart Easy+: F7.
• Vario 160: G3 standard, matching F7 optional.
• Vario 110: G3; JESSP replacement F7 does not fit.

A filter must match dimensions, sealing and airflow resistance, not just the printed class. A generic F7 is not automatically equivalent.

When does F7 make sense?

For compatible units, F7 is the finer-filtration option when pollen or particulate pollution is a concern. On Vario 160 this is a deliberate upgrade; G3 remains the standard coarse-filter choice. Particulate filters do not remove CO₂ or humidity and are not gas or odour filters. No medical effect should be inferred from pollen filtration alone.

Do not cut F7 material to fit Vario 110 or wedge in an unapproved filter. Fit, sealing and airflow would be uncertain.

Why finer is not always better

Finer filtration also adds resistance. An unapproved, incorrectly fitted or dirty filter can impair airflow, especially in an already tightly sized system. Choose by model, install flat with no bypass gaps, inspect regularly and follow the manual for cleaning, replacement and timer reset. Outdoor dust, pollen and nearby works affect service life. See when to clean or replace filters.

Three mistakes to avoid

1. Ordering solely by G3/F7 class without checking fit.
2. Expecting F7 to solve CO₂, moisture, gases or odours: these require appropriate ventilation or different filtration principles.
3. Continuing to use a clogged filter instead of checking condition and instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Upgrade Vario 160? Yes, with the matching optional F7. F7 in Vario 110? No. Automatically right for allergy sufferers? F7 is described for pollen and fine particles, but correct compatibility, fit and maintenance matter; this is not a medical claim. Remove CO₂ or odours? No: CO₂ is reduced by air exchange, and gases require other filter principles.

Choose the unit first, then its approved filter. See the unit comparison or the JESSP replacement F7.