A significant issue surrounding such efforts is the creation of safe, breathable air that will not enhance or facilitate the spread of Coronavirus or any other potentially dangerous airborne pathogens. With these facts in mind, industries employed to design and repair air transporting systems are crucial in attaining a successful outcome in this endeavor.
A Brief Overview of HVAC System Functionality
HVAC is an abbreviation for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Most residential and commercial properties are equipped with such apparatuses. These systems contain components, like heating units, water heaters and air conditioners that are designed to provide warm and cool air and hot water to a specific structure. These systems are additionally comprised of an intricate system of piping and tubing created to deliver these vital resources.
Because HVAC systems process air, said apparatuses have been known to attract possibly hazardous airborne particles, such as, microbes and various allergens. The potential for systemic HVAC coronavirus infiltration has and continues to be a significant hold up in the reopening of notable indoor facilities, including office buildings, libraries, shopping centers and entertainment venues, like theaters and movie theaters.
A growing consensus among safety experts and HVAC industry professionals is that modern, newly-installed apparatuses stand a greater chance of reducing the potential spread of Covid-19 and other health-threatening microbes than aging systems.
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers, also abbreviated as ASHRAE, have established guidelines indoor entities are strongly urged to follow as a means of potentially preventing future disease outbreaks.
ASHRAE members suggest indoor establishments in the process of reopening should practice the following tips:
UV Light Filters for HVAC Systems
A licensed, professional HVAC installation and repair company should perform a thorough assessment of existing equipment. Should said unit be more than a few years old, the establishment in question might wish to initiate upgrades. Certain industry professionals recommend employing UV lights for HVAC.
Using UV lights for HVAC is thought to be a possible Coronavirus killer. Researchers have found that UV or ultraviolet light has proven effective in eliminating a wide variety of similar pathogens and ongoing tests have yielded promising results in reducing Covid-19 contamination.
Instituting An Effective Safety Plan
Every indoor establishment should author a written safety plan for both employees and customers to abide by. Such strategies should incorporate previously created guidelines for maintaining appropriate social distancing, wearing face coverings, encouraging frequent hand washing and encouraging staff members and customers to remain home should either party exhibit symptoms common to the Coronavirus or any other highly contagious ailment.
Increasing the circulation of air will also prove critical. This prevents air from becoming trapped or stale. Such efforts can be accomplished by using electric or ceiling fans and opening the facility in question’s windows.