HVAC engineering is mainly associated with space heating in winter and air conditioning in summer. However, with smart design decisions, HVAC systems can also be used to improve indoor air quality. Modern design practices prioritize energy efficiency, which is great from an economic perspective, but human health and comfort should not be neglected.
Maintaining an adequate indoor temperature is important, but buildings need a constant supply of fresh air that is neither too dry nor too humid. Air pollutants must also be monitored and kept under control, or they can cause health problems.
HVAC Engineering Recommendations for Indoor Air Quality
A simple recommendation to improve air quality is to have HVAC equipment with adequate capacity, as this allows for optimal temperature and humidity control. As an example, consider the negative consequences of an oversized air conditioning system:
- Oversized air conditioners cool indoor air too quickly and there is not enough time to remove moisture.
- As a result, you end up with a cold, damp environment that feels like a refrigerator.
- If the air conditioner also has an oversized fan, the high air speed causes a cooling effect.
On the other hand, an air conditioner with adequate capacity removes humidity more effectively, without causing drafts. A qualified HVAC engineering company can specify heating, ventilation and cooling equipment with the correct capacity for your building's needs.
Humidity control is also very important for the health of the occupants, with the recommendation being to maintain relative humidity between 30% and 60%. Outside this range, there are many negative consequences:
- Excessive dryness causes dust and viruses to remain in the air longer and can spread more easily. Dryness can also cause irritation to the eyes, skin and respiratory system.
- Excessive humidity creates a suitable environment for mold and dust mites, which cause irritation and allergic reactions.
The building itself can also suffer when humidity is not controlled, as many building materials are damaged by dryness or excessive humidity. Eventually, your property may need expensive repairs.
Improve indoor air quality.
Using HVAC Engineering to Control Air Pollutants
Indoor environments have many sources of air pollutants and some of them are very dangerous for humans. For example, new furniture releases volatile organic compounds and combustion appliances release a lethal substance called carbon monoxide. Keeping these substances under control is very important to prevent their negative effects on human health.
HVAC systems must be designed to provide adequate ventilation, preventing the accumulation of air pollutants in indoor spaces.
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has determined that indoor air is, on average, 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air.
- Therefore, replenishing indoor air at regular intervals is a simple way to reduce the concentration of pollutants.
- Proper ventilation can be supplemented with filters and air purifiers to further improve indoor air quality.
HVAC engineering goes beyond heating and cooling indoor spaces depending on the weather. To provide indoor conditions that promote human health and comfort, indoor air quality is also important. Indoor spaces must have an adequate temperature, but also clean air and moderate humidity.
