In Canada, people spend an astonishing 90% of their time indoors. Yet, have you ever stopped to consider what you're inhaling during that time?
The truth may surprise you. Indoor air can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air, and in some cases, up to 100 times more.
The silent warrior standing between us and the potential indoor air pollutants is something we often take for granted: our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
These systems do more than provide us with the comfort of temperature regulation. They play a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality and safeguarding our health.
To help you understand how and why HVAC systems maintain indoor air quality, we've written a guide. Keep reading to find out more.
Filtering Air
A crucial part of any HVAC system is the air filter. This component captures particulates such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens as air circulates through the system.
Over time, a dirty or clogged filter can reduce the system's efficiency and potentially release trapped pollutants back into the air. Regularly replacing or cleaning these filters is a key step in air quality maintenance.
Adjusting Temperature and Humidity Levels
HVAC systems control the indoor climate by adjusting temperature and humidity levels. This is crucial for our comfort. But it's also vital for maintaining your air quality.
High humidity can encourage the growth of mould and other allergens, while extremely low humidity can make the air dry and uncomfortable.
By maintaining an optimal humidity level, HVAC systems help to prevent these issues.
Built-In Purification Technologies
HVAC systems also play a role in commercial air purification by using built-in purification technologies. Air purifiers can remove even smaller particles than HVAC filters.
This includes smoke, odors, and microscopic pollutants. Some HVAC systems incorporate advanced features like ultraviolet (UV) lights. This will kill bacteria, viruses, and mold spores.
There are other systems that use activated carbon filters to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and unpleasant odors.
Proper Ventilation
Ventilation, the 'V' in HVAC, is another essential factor in maintaining your air quality.
Proper ventilation ensures the exchange of indoor air with fresh outdoor air, diluting and displacing indoor pollutants. This is especially important in modern homes.
This is because they are often built to be airtight for energy efficiency. Without good ventilation, pollutants can build up over time, leading to poor indoor air quality.
Monitoring Air Quality
HVAC systems can also help monitor air quality. Some modern systems feature sensors. These can detect changes in the levels of certain pollutants or changes in humidity.
They will automatically adjust the system's operations in response.
HVAC Systems Will Improve Indoor Air Quality
Many business owners don't recognize the role that HVAC systems play in improving indoor air quality.
Not only can they adjust temperature and humidity levels. They will also filter air. There are even some models that have built-in air purification technology that will illuminate microscopic pollutants.
Are you looking for a commercial HVAC solution for your business? If so, Chill Air can help you.
We are an industry leader with more than one hundred years of combined experience in the areas of greater Vancouver, Abbotsford, and Chilliwack. Don't hesitate to reach out to us to get a free estimate today!