This flu season is particularly severe, making indoor air quality more important than ever. While handwashing and surface cleaning are essential, one of the most effective ways to reduce virus transmission in facilities is through proper HVAC maintenance. Optimizing air circulation and filtration can significantly improve the health and safety of your building’s occupants. Here’s how:
Optimize Indoor Air Quality
Viruses thrive in poorly ventilated spaces, where stagnant air increases the likelihood of airborne transmission. Ensuring your HVAC system is properly maintained and optimized for air circulation can help reduce contaminants and create a healthier environment. Key strategies include:
- Upgrading air filters to MERV-13 or higher – These high-efficiency filters capture smaller particles, including viruses, helping to remove airborne pathogens before they circulate.
- Increasing fresh air intake – Bringing in more outdoor air dilutes indoor pollutants and reduces the concentration of airborne germs, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Installing UV-C lighting in air ducts – UV-C technology helps neutralize bacteria and viruses by disrupting their DNA, reducing their ability to spread through the HVAC system.
Maintain HVAC Systems for Peak Performance
An HVAC system that isn’t properly maintained can contribute to poor air quality, making it easier for viruses to spread. Routine inspections and servicing can:
- Ensure filters are changed on schedule – Dirty filters restrict airflow and reduce efficiency, allowing more contaminants to circulate.
- Identify and address issues that lead to stagnant air – Poor ventilation can cause pockets of contaminated air to linger, increasing the risk of transmission.
- Optimize humidity levels – Viruses tend to spread more easily in overly dry air. Maintaining indoor humidity levels between 40-60% can help reduce virus survival rates while also improving occupant comfort.
At Crockett Facilities Services, we specialize in keeping your building systems running efficiently, ensuring optimal air quality and functionality. Let’s create a healthier facility together – Contact Crockett Facilities Services today at 301-781-6538 or contact us online.