Your HVAC needs help with PM2.5 and ultrafine particles
In-room air cleaners are the solution. HVAC systems should be the go-to solution for indoor air improvement. Unfortunately, these filtration systems were designed to protect machinery, and not to remove fine and ultrafine particles or gases from the air. The pandemic highlighted this gap between HVAC capabilities and much needed control of infectious aerosols. Post-pandemic, it is well-recognized that HVAC systems aren’t providing cleaner, healthier indoor air.
The challenge
Adapting these systems to remove viruses, infectious aerosols, and other PM2.5 without considerable expense or energy use turns out to be a difficult task. For most existing HVAC systems, a predetermined upper limit on effective operation means that upgrading to high-MERV-rated filters is not an option.
For HVAC systems that can accommodate higher-MERV filters, increased backpressure restricts airflow and increases power use. This raises operating costs and conflicts with sustainability goals. Higher energy costs are incurred even in periods when increased filtration is not required – such as when a building is not occupied. Higher performance filters also need changing frequently which adds to maintenance costs.
Why not just upgrade my MERV filters?
- Increased maintenance
- Increased filter replacement cost
- Higher energy use and cost (pressure drop)
- System upgrade limits
In-room air cleaners bridge the HVAC gap
Well-designed in-room air cleaners or air purifiers can supplement HVAC systems in several important ways to provide clean air:
- In high-risk periods, as set forth in ASHRAE Standard 241 Control of Infectious Aerosol
- During other IAQ events such as wildfire smoke infiltration.
- In situations and locations where density fluctuates including classrooms and conference rooms
- When occupancy occurs outside typical building (and HVAC system) hours
- For areas that HVAC systems don’t reach adequately or effectively
How to select the right in-room air purifier?
When choosing between in-room air cleaners, look for these key features:
A clean air delivery rate (CADR) well-matched to the space and based on the desired number of air changes per hour.
Rapid removal of pathogens and toxins, fine and ultrafine particles and ambient ozone. Ask for verified, third-party test results for assurance.
Ozone-free operation. Look zero-ozone test results
Ultra-quiet operation for reduced stress and successful adoption. Check the dB(A) on all speeds.
ASHRAE Standard 241 compliance for control of infectious aerosols, smoke, and other ultrafine particulates.
Constant performance with no degradation or CADR drop-off between filter changes.
Low maintenance costs and a low cost to own. Look for low cost, long-life filters.
Key Criteria for Air Purifiers
- CADR
- Effectiveness
- No ozone
- Noise level
- Energy use
- Standard compliant
- Non clogging technology
- Maintenance
You care about indoor air. We do, too.
Use this form to get in touch or drop us a note: contact@agentisair.com
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