As we enter the colder months, we need to place an emphasis on controlling indoor air quality, temperature and humidity.
Airborne illnesses like coronavirus (COVID19) thrive in environments with poor ventilation, indoor air circulation and high humidity levels. According to ASHRAE guidelines, this winter, temperature levels indoors should be approximately 72 degrees Fahrenheit with 40% to 50% relative humidity. It’s recommended that a review of building control sequences should be completed by your system providers to verify facility operations are running according to the recommended ventilation, temperature and humidity conditions.
HVAC and heating systems play an integral role in the prevention of viral spread. Trend and monitoring temperature and humidity levels indoors will provide valuable information on your risk to viral spread inside your buildings. Steam distribution systems should be checked monthly to check piping for leaks, steam traps and condensate return units for proper operation. In addition, verify that control valves operate properly. Demand Control Ventilation should be disabled, and the maximum possible outdoor air flow should be used, according to the guidelines.
Filtration technology with a minimum of MERV 14 rating is recommended. However, Stark Tech recommends Healthy Disinfecting Filtration System technology that filters microns as small as 0.007, capturing coronavirus and preventing particles from circulating the air.
When these control sequences are programmed according to the ASHRAE guidelines, building occupants have more confidence when they are inside. Precise system control can also reduce airborne contaminants, improve indoor air quality and
