Why do we need ASHRAE Standard 241?
ASHRAE Standard 241 was developed in response to the pandemic, to provide a complete framework for planning, design, operation, and maintenance of systems that reduce the risk of airborne infection transmission.
Previously, ASHRAE indoor air quality standards focused on ventilation and bringing outdoor air into facilities, however the energy cost in doing so is significant.
In a departure from past guidance, Standard 241 introduces the concept of Equivalent Clean Air Flow, offering a formula based on space density and building type, to allow for the use of multiple air cleaning solutions in addition to outdoor air, and including in-room air purifiers.
The equivalent clean air flow per individual (ECAi) can be calculated for the specific density of any shared space and can be achieved through outdoor air, if feasible, but also through recirculated, purified air and air disinfection.
ASHRAE Standard 241 Key Components
• Infection Risk Management (IRMM)
• Requirements for equivalent clean airflow rate
• Requirements for use of filtration and air cleaning technology
• Planning and commissioning
ASHRAE Standard 241: Flexible responses to infectious aerosols and other toxins
The benefit to this new standard is that it allows for a lot of flexibility to achieve objectives without excessive cost an energy use. What we saw during COVID is that people want to be able to address this concern in a way that is responsive to the needs of the occupants.
And, due to the similarity in size between airborne pathogens and other harmful fine and ultrafine particles, Standard 241 can also be applied to other air quality events such as wildfire smoke infiltration.
The trouble with outside air
Outside air provides aerosol dilution, with a higher energy expense as the air must be conditioned (heated or cooled) before it can be introduced. Outdoor air may also bring indoors other toxins and allergens.
The alternative air cleaning technologies supported by ASHRAE Standard 241 include room air purifiers which can provide clean air at a lower cost and with less energy use. More than a simple ventilation alternative, room air purifiers are well-suited to remove harmful viruses, pathogens, smoke and ultrafine particles.
First things first: ASHRAE Standard 241 compliance
In-room air cleaners must be ASHRAE Standard 241 compliant to be considered for use in the equivalent clean airflow calculation in the standard.
Brio 650 is certified as ASHRAE Standard 241 compliant, making it an accepted, effective alternative to outdoor air during periods of high infection risk, and can be used in equivalent clean airflow calculations.
Performing to the highest commercial standards, Brio 650 can be an important tool in creating a safe building environment to protect occupant well-being. Compliance also ensures the ultimate in product quality and performance, safety, and effectiveness.
What’s the next step?
Translating ASHRAE Standard 241 into practice can be a challenge. To assit, we have develped an assessment tool to guide you through the needed calculations. Using the Agentis Air assessment tool, the equivalent clean air flow per individual (ECAi) can be calculated for the specific density of any space. The tool provides guidance for the number of air purifiers needed based on the ECAi requirement and using local AQI conditions. The resulting energy savings is also calculated, using actual energy costs.
We provide complementary assessments based on your specific space, density, geography, AQI, and HVAC filtration system. The results will tell you how many Brio 650 air purifiers you will need and how much you can save.
Get in touch to find out more.
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Use this form to get in touch or drop us a note: contact@agentisair.com
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