06/06/2020
How to minimize the risk of spreading Virus through Air Conditioners
Studies suggests that temperature between 24oC & 30o C and Relative Humidity between 40% and 70% is ideal to boost human immunity and to resist the infections.
The COVID-19 pandemic has engulfed the world. Experts believe, “Stay home Stay Safe “Methodology is the best solution amid Corona virus crisis. With the rise in outside temperature, Air conditioning systems are indeed to maintain thermal comfort at Shopping Malls, Home, Workplaces etc…. Here Listed Guidelines to be followed for Room Air Conditioners & Central Air Conditioners
Room Air Conditioners
Room air conditioners, Normally using for residential application are installed for a single room application, Like Bed Rooms, Living Rooms Etc. It is private space with one or two occupants’ health history and behavior known each other. So there is negligible possibility of COVID-19 virus contamination.
Operating guidelines recommended for Room Air Conditioning system
• The temperature should be kept between 24o C to 30o C, 24 C in humid Condition and 30 in dry Condition
• Normally Air Conditioning units are designed to maintain the humidity between 40 and 60. In dry climate where humidity is less it is recommended to increase the humidity by keeping a water in a pan.
• Ventilate the room adequately by slightly keeping the window open during running with exhaust fan running in the adjacent bathroom if possible and by keeping doors and windows open where AC is not operated
• Clean Filters Frequently.
• In case of breakdown contact authorized dealer only.
Central Air Conditioners
Central air conditioning systems used in Shopping Malls, Offices and other Commercial applications, the general perception that, it is a Closed- Air system, but these systems are well-ventilated. A standard central air conditioning system design includes a mechanical ventilation and filtration system that ensure adequate amount of fresh air is available. A central air conditioning system normally maintains Relative Humidity of 40 % which is ideal for avoiding the propagation of COVID-19. Hence, Normally Central air conditioning systems are also safe to an Extend.
Operating guidelines recommended for central air conditioning system
• The start-up of the system after a prolonged shutdown should follow protocols given in the ASHRAE guidelines
• The temperature setting can be between 24o C and 30o C
• During non-working hours and weekends, it is recommended to keep the air circulation system running at all times without cooling.
• The exhaust ventilation systems in wash rooms should kept operational 24/7.
• The service provider may be advised to clean the filters more frequently.
• The central AC systems are designed for fresh air changes as per the ASHRAE norms
By Adopting Personal Hygiene Measures and following guidelines mentioned we can reduce the Risk of Spreading of Viruses through Air Conditioners.
“Stay Home, Stay Safe “
Courtesy: Basic Concept is from thermalcontrolbusinessupdate.