Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a significant concern for commercial spaces. Not only does it affect the comfort and health of employees and visitors, but it can also influence productivity and overall operational costs. With concerns ranging from smog to wildfires affecting the region, maintaining good IAQ is essential. Here are some best practices to ensure the air within your commercial space remains clean and safe.
A well-functioning HVAC system is essential in ensuring good indoor air. This makes regular HVAC repair and maintenance integral to prevent the circulation of pollutants. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends annual inspections and routine upkeep, including semi-annual cleaning, lubrication, and filter replacement. For professional troubleshooting or any HVAC repairs and maintenance, it is advisable to seek expert service providers to ensure your system functions optimally.
When it comes to HVAC replacement, selecting filters with a high minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) can drastically improve IAQ. These filters are more adept at trapping smaller particles that may recirculate through the air. Consulting HVAC professionals can help you determine which filters best suit your system without compromising its efficiency.
Utilizing air quality monitors lets you measure pollutants and conditions such as humidity and temperature in real-time. Such devices can detect a range of pollutants, giving valuable insights into the IAQ of your commercial space. You can make informed decisions about ventilation or when to implement additional purification methods by monitoring your environment.
Supplement your HVAC system with portable air purifiers, especially for areas of high traffic or where pollutants are prevalent. Portable units work well with commercial air quality monitors, allowing you to target areas with greater accuracy and efficiency.
Maintaining the relative humidity levels between 30-50% is recommended to curb the growth of biological pollutants such as mold. Special devices can track the humidity levels in your building, thereby helping to adjust your HVAC system or dehumidifiers accordingly.
Identifying and minimizing the source of pollution is essential. Store high-VOC substances responsibly, and consider scheduling maintenance and cleaning tasks during off-hours to reduce exposure. During renovations or new installs, opting for low-VOC products can keep initial emissions to a minimum.
Using eco-friendly cleaning products and practices can also contribute to better IAQ. This ensures that the air remains free of harsh chemicals that traditional cleaning products may emit.
For new constructions or renovations, incorporating IAQ considerations into the design phase can be invaluable. This can involve installing induction units and energy-efficient dampers or opting for innovative HVAC designs that facilitate better air quality while reducing energy consumption.
Periodic IAQ audits can help identify potential issues before they become significant problems. These audits may include checking for mold growth, ensuring vents are unblocked, and reviewing the overall efficacy of your current IAQ strategy.
Air Products & Services provides quality HVAC and IAQ solutions. We tailor our services to meet your needs and energy efficiency goals. You can reach us at (818) 989-2030 or visit our contact page to get started.