Fans & air quality
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on sensors to track levels of CO2, humidity, and particulates, providing real-time data on indoor conditions. These systems allow HVAC professionals to respond quickly to any issues, ensuring that air quality is maintained consistently. For older buildings, retrofitting or upgrading
Above: David Millward, Product Manager at Elta Group
HVAC systems may be necessary to meet today’s IAQ standards. Continuous mechanical ventilation systems, such as decentralised MEV (dMEV), are particularly effective in controlling humidity year- round, preventing condensation and mould growth. Intelligent HVAC systems can further enhance
What HVAC professionals need
to know about indoor air quality David Millward, Product Manager at Elta Group, highlights the key factors HVAC professionals should consider to maintain optimal IAQ and stay ahead of evolving regulations
I
ndoor air quality (IAQ) is increasingly recognised as a vital aspect of building management, particularly for HVAC professionals whose work impacts the health and comfort of building occupants. As awareness of poor air quality’s bearing on both well-being and energy efficiency increases, HVAC systems are being placed under greater scrutiny. IAQ is influenced by various factors, including
ventilation, temperature, humidity, and airborne contaminants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter. While HVAC professionals are often focused on thermal comfort, air quality is an equally important, yet sometimes overlooked, component of occupant health and building performance. At its core, effective HVAC systems ensure good
IAQ by providing proper ventilation, controlling indoor pollutants, and maintaining comfortable humidity levels. This is especially important as buildings become more airtight to improve energy efficiency, which can inadvertently trap pollutants indoors. HVAC systems must be designed and maintained to balance these competing priorities.
Three key elements of IAQ
1. Ventilation Proper ventilation is fundamental to maintaining good air quality. HVAC systems should be capable of removing stale, contaminated air while bringing infiltered air. The UK Building Regulations (Part F) outline the necessary ventilation rates to control pollutants, and it’s the responsibility of HVAC professionals to ensure systems meet these requirements. 2. Moisture control High humidity levels, particularly in areas such as
14 December 2024
kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, can accelerate mould and mildew growth, which can severely compromise air quality and cause respiratory issues for occupants. HVAC systems with integrated moisture control, such as Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR), are crucial in preventing excess humidity and maintaining IAQ. 3. Temperature regulation Temperature plays a role in both comfort and air quality. HVAC systems must not only control temperature but also work in tandem with ventilation strategies to ensure a balanced indoor climate.
Navigating legal standards
Recent legislative changes have placed IAQ under a regulatory spotlight. For example, Awaab’s Law, named in response to the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak due to mould exposure, looks to mandate that social and private landlords address damp and mould within 14 days. This legislation underscores the importance of proactive IAQ management, not just for landlords but also for HVAC professionals who are responsible for the systems that control moisture and ventilation. Staying ahead of these legal requirements is essential for HVAC professionals. Regular system maintenance, particularly in older buildings, is key to ensuring compliance and mitigating IAQ-related risks. Ensuring ventilation systems are well-maintained and in line with current standards will help avoid both legal penalties and potential health hazards.
Monitoring and maintenance
Effective monitoring is crucial to maintaining optimal IAQ. Modern buildings increasingly rely
IAQ by automatically adjusting airflow based on the moisture content and temperature of incoming air. These smart systems optimise energy efficiency while maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor environment, helping professionals manage IAQ more effectively.
Educating building occupants
HVAC professionals also play a role in educating building occupants about how they can affect IAQ. Simple actions, such as regularly using extractor fans or avoiding drying clothes indoors, can prevent excess humidity and condensation. By providing clear guidelines on these practices, either to the occupants or via the building manager or landlord, HVAC professionals can support better IAQ outcomes and reduce the strain on ventilation systems. Occupants’ reluctance to use heating systems due to rising energy costs, particularly during winter, can inadvertently worsen air quality by increasing condensation. HVAC professionals should encourage a balanced approach to heating and ventilation, helping occupants prevent moisture-related IAQ issues.
Ready for winter
The winter months present a unique challenge for IAQ, as buildings are often designed to conserve heat, limiting natural airflow. HVAC systems are critical during this period, as they ensure sufficient ventilation and humidity control even when windows and doors remain closed. HVAC professionals should inspect and optimise
systems ahead of the colder months, ensuring all ventilation units are functioning properly. Anticipating increased demand for ventilation products during this period, it is also essential to secure a reliable supply chain for equipment such as fans, extractors, and filters.
The future of IAQ in HVAC
As public health concerns around indoor air quality continue to rise, HVAC professionals are positioned at the forefront of the solution. Understanding the factors that influence IAQ, and implementing effective strategies for ventilation, moisture control, and monitoring, is key to ensuring healthy indoor environments. By staying informed about legal requirements and embracing modern HVAC innovations, professionals can not only safeguard occupants’ health but also enhance the energy efficiency and long-term value of the buildings they manage.
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