Covid19 and HVAC Systems: Important Safety and Health Protocols
09 November 2020Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are primarily composed of equipment and appliances that can provide thermal comfort and improve indoor air quality in most residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. These systems have been effective for a long time since they work and function based on the principles of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
All the benefits that can be obtained from HVAC systems can still be enjoyed by a lot of properties today, even with the continuous growth of COVID-19 cases around the world. While some studies suggest the possibility of the virus being airborne, other experts believe that it will not thrive and survive under well-ventilated rooms and spaces.
If you want to keep your property safe, here are some important safety and health protocols that you can do with your HVAC systems to prevent spreading any virus.
Clean Air Conditioning Components
One of the most effective ways of preventing the spread of COVID-19 in your property is to clean your air conditioning components. Since these components are the ones that circulate air around your rooms and spaces, they must be cleaned and sanitised regularly. Cleaning the condenser coils, ductwork, and other system components will not only prevent the HVAC systems from spreading diseases, but they can also operate more efficiently, consume less power, and have a much longer service life. Keep in mind, however, that sanitising these components might be not efficient against future exposure to microbes.
Install Ultraviolet Light and Ionisers
Another helpful protocol that can be done with your HVAC systems is to install add-ons that can emit ultraviolet (UV) light and negative ions. UV disinfection systems that emit UV light, particularly the UV-C, are known to effectively kill and deactivate microbes that may get into the filters and other components of your HVAC systems. Ionisers, alternatively, emit negative ions to remove airborne pollutants, allergens, and other particles in your property. These small units can be installed right next to your air distribution systems so that any harmful particles will not be able to reach your filters.
Utilise High-Efficiency HVAC Filters
Using high-efficiency HVAC filters can also help prevent virus particles from infiltrating your property. This type of HVAC filter has all the means of decreasing the chance of getting sick. They do not, however, guarantee the complete dismissal of the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Additionally, utilising these filters can also affect the performance of your HVAC systems. For one, they may decrease the airflow of your system. Your HVAC system components may also have to run longer just to meet the set temperature. While they effectively trap more dust and debris, these filters must be changed regularly.
Following these safety and health protocols regarding HVAC systems may not help you get rid of the COVID-19 particles completely, but they can still assure you a place that is free from viruses and other harmful microbes. On any given day, coupling these safety and health protocols with proper personal care and hygiene is still the best way to avoid getting sick.
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