Scheduling AC Maintenance & Start-Up as Buildings Return to “Normal”
Annual heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) maintenance has always been an integral step for extending the life of your system and supporting the health and comfort of the occupants it supports. But dedication to HVAC tune-ups and maintenance has reached a critical level in the time of COVID-19. HVAC systems play an essential role in reducing the spread of harmful pathogens and need regular inspections to guarantee performance.
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has created research-backed guidance to help minimize the scope of COVID-19 as it relates to the operation and maintenance of HVAC systems. Specifically, ASHRAE suggests evaluating the performance of four critical HVAC duties: air distribution, air filtration, air cleaning, and temperature and humidity.
Scheduling an AC maintenance inspection and tune-up to evaluate these four key HVAC areas can help ensure your business or residence provides a safe and healthy environment for those it houses and the community at large.
Contact Schneller Knochelmann Plumbing, Heating & Air at 513-407-4424 to schedule an HVAC inspection today!
Reasons to Schedule AC Maintenance Post-COVID-19
Because SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) viral particles spread between people more readily indoors than outdoors, the CDC recommends that attention be given to better indoor ventilation to help reduce the concentration of viral particles. HVAC systems should be analyzed and improved to minimize virus transmission indoors. HVAC plays a critical part in limiting virus transmissions.
Air Distribution
Airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is significant and can be better managed by ensuring the proper operation of heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems. Airflow distribution should be set up to properly circulate air, filtering out unwanted particles.
Air Filtration
Proper ventilation and air filtration through HVAC systems reduce the airborne concentration of SARS-CoV-2 and the risk of transmission through the air. During an HVAC tune-up, your technician can inspect your air filters to ensure they are clean, properly sized, and provide the highest filtering power available.
The ASHRAE recommends using at least MERV-13 rated filters if it does not adversely impact system operation. If MERV-13 filters are not sustainable, portable HEPA air cleaners can be considered.
Air Cleaning
Air cleaning devices and technologies can aid in reducing the concentration of harmful airborne viruses and bacteria. UV light installed above an indoor air conditioning coil works 24/7 to destroy those microorganisms circulating through your system. Germicidal ultraviolet air disinfection can supplement ventilation and filtration.
Your HVAC technician can also evaluate your ducts to make sure they are free from dirt, debris, or other contaminants that would block proper airflow or circulate unhealthy air particles.
Temperature and Humidity
Ensuring that temperatures and humidity stay at proper levels is also an important part of your defense against COVID-19. Unconditioned spaces can lead to thermal stress in people that have a lower resistance to infection. A well-functioning AC unit will also ensure that humidity levels stay at a healthy level between 40 and 60 percent. Bacteria thrives in warm, humid environments, which is why temperature control is so vital in establishing a healthy environment.
Get AC Maintenance Scheduled Today
Taking steps to ensure that your business or residence has a well-functioning HVAC system is imperative in the fight against COVID-19 transmission. Focusing on these four areas of HVAC health will lead to healthier work environments, healthier employees, and a healthier world.
Call in the experts at Schneller Knochelmann Plumbing, Heating & Air for HVAC inspection and maintenance to build a COVID-19 defense at 513-407-4424. Our licensed and skilled technicians have been delivering top-rated heating and cooling services for decades. We guarantee 100% satisfaction, or You Won’t Pay!