In the meantime business owners and facility managers need to double down on improving their commercial HVAC systems: in this case, fighting airborne pathogens should be your highest priority.
Cold and flu season has arrived. November heralds the waning days of fall as winter begins to take its place. While every year sees mundane sicknesses affect everyone under your roof, 2020 has proven to be a most unusual and frightening one. After all, the worst pandemic in a century is a crisis that shows no signs of resolving before a vaccine can be successfully deployed. In the meantime business owners and facility managers need to double down on improving their commercial HVAC systems: in this case, fighting airborne pathogens should be your highest priority.
The Detrimental Effects of Insufficient Ventilation
Ventilation is a crucial part of ensuring indoor air quality remains at proper levels. Modern office buildings are often equipped with energy-saving measures such as insulation and energy bubbles. These so-called building envelopes can help mitigate or prevent sick building syndrome caused by stale and contaminated air. Rampant humidity levels can also be a contributing factor since the resultant moisture allows bacteria and viruses to propagate.
Schedule Consistent Filter Replacements
Air filters need to be changed on a regular basis. However, that schedule largely depends on the amount of usage that the equipment experiences. In any case, our best suggestion is to consult with your HVAC service provider to get additional information and advice on maximizing filtration and getting the best results from your commercial HVAC system. Consider using HEPA filters and pay attention to ASHRAE standards to confirm how effective the replacement filters truly are.
Maintain All Furnaces and AC Equipment
Heating and cooling systems must be maintained throughout the year. Cooling systems are largely dormant in the fall and winter months, but unseasonably warm temperatures in the off-season could still call for their use. Meanwhile, furnaces and other commercial heating systems are most active as the end of the calendar year arrives. Filters, belts, condensers, coils, components, and connections are all subject to upkeep. Thus, dust, pollen, dirt, mold, and other irritants that trigger airborne illnesses can be reduced or even eliminated
Maintain All Ductwork Connections
Never underestimate the importance of the ductwork connecting the various elements of your building’s HVAC system. Dust, mold, mildew, and pathogens, airborne or otherwise, can survive there because the ducts tend to be overlooked even when routine inspections, cleaning, maintenance, and upgrades are being performed. Any detectable holes and leaks must be mended in order to improve airflow and adjust humidity levels.
Potentially Implement Air Purifiers
Air purifiers may seem like an extraordinary expense, but we are living in extraordinary times. Using air purification technology can help you combat the spread of coronavirus along with enhancing IAQ and making it healthier for everybody who needs to visit your workplace. Optimizing your commercial HVAC system by integrating cutting-edge technology solutions such as ultraviolet light, bi-polar ionization, and oxidation can help minimize the transmission of the dangerous virus.
Crockett Facilities Can Help!
Crockett Facilities Services, Inc. (CFSI) is committed to helping building owners, property managers, engineers, and facility professionals navigate the post-COVID-19 environment. We can develop a cost-effective, customized program for your building that will mitigate the potential health risks of COVID-19. Click Here to Request a Quote
To learn more about the importance of reopening your building safely, please contact us at 202.600.2787 or mford@crockett-facilities.com. Our PM contract customers receive priority service with 24/7 emergency service in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest!