Indoor Air Quality
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the average American spends about 90% of their time indoors where the concentrations of some pollutants are often 2 to 5 times higher than typical outdoor concentrations. This means that the quality of our homes, workplaces, schools, and other buildings has the potential to impact our health, comfort, and productivity.
Are your HVAC systems being utilized to improve IAQ, or are they contributing to poor IAQ?
The Service Logic companies are ready to work with you to develop and execute the right IAQ plan for your buildings. We do this using the latest scientific data and recommendations of accredited organizations such as ASHRAE, EPA and CDC and by asking questions such as:
System design – is your building configured and being used in the same way as originally designed? If not, air flow in different areas is likely not matched to occupancy. Do humidity levels get above 60%? If so, then higher levels of pathogens are more likely.
Equipment installation – was your HVAC equipment installed correctly? When inspecting existing systems, we often find issues such as ductwork is not sealed properly, outdoor air dampers are closed, and condensate drains are not piped correctly.
Maintenance – are your HVAC systems professionally maintained? If not, then they are probably not operating as they were designed and they are not operating efficiently which is impacting IAQ, energy costs and comfort.
Operations – are system setpoints for heating, cooling, ventilation, humidity, and night setback optimal? Adjustments often result in improved comfort and energy efficiency.
Filtration – are both active and passive filtration being utilized? Very small particles such as pathogens are not carried by the air current through passive filter media and remain in the space unless active filtration such as GPS Air needlepoint bipolar ionization is added. Utilizing both technologies can also result in HEPA level filtration using MERV 10 filters.
Improve Your IAQ with NPBI Technology
GPS Air’s NPBI technology has been installed in thousands of offices, schools, airports, healthcare facilities and other community spaces around the world.
GPS is UL certified to not produce ozone and works with third-party laboratories to continually strive for best-in-class indoor air testing. Tests are conducted in large chambers designed to emulate realistic applications. To learn more about test methodology and results visit https://gpsair.com/third-party-testing.
For schools, universities, and local/state/federal government buildings HVAC improvements and IAQ projects are eligible for considerable funding under programs such as the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund, known as ESSER.
Contact Service Logic to discuss how NPBI technology can improve the indoor air quality of your buildings.
The Benefits of Cleaner Home Air
Maintaining good indoor air quality (IAQ) is crucial for several reasons, as it directly affects the health, comfort, and well-being of individuals in indoor spaces. Here are some key benefits of maintaining high indoor air quality:
Health Improvement:
Respiratory Health: Good IAQ reduces the risk of respiratory problems such as asthma, allergies, and other respiratory infections.
Cardiovascular Health: Clean air contributes to better cardiovascular health by minimizing exposure to pollutants that can affect the heart and blood vessels.
Productivity and Comfort:
Enhanced Cognitive Function: Improved air quality has been linked to better cognitive function, concentration, and productivity.
Comfortable Environment: A well-ventilated and clean indoor environment provides greater comfort for occupants.
Reduced Sick Building Syndrome (SBS):
Lower Absenteeism: Improved IAQ can reduce the prevalence of sick building syndrome, leading to lower absenteeism among occupants.
Allergy and Asthma Prevention:
Reduced Allergens: Effective ventilation and air filtration can help reduce allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen, benefiting those with allergies.
Prevention of Respiratory Infections:
Control of Pathogens: Good IAQ helps control the spread of airborne pathogens, reducing the risk of respiratory infections such as influenza.
Better Sleep Quality:
Reduced Irritants: Clean air can contribute to better sleep by minimizing irritants that may disrupt sleep patterns.
Long-Term Health Benefits:
Chronic Health Conditions: Long-term exposure to poor air quality is associated with the development of chronic health conditions such as heart disease and respiratory issues. Improved IAQ helps mitigate these risks.
Environmental Impact:
Energy Efficiency: Proper ventilation and air quality management contribute to energy efficiency by optimizing HVAC systems and reducing the need for excessive ventilation.
Odor Control:
Enhanced Air Freshness: Effective ventilation and air purification systems help control and eliminate unpleasant odors, creating a more pleasant indoor environment.
Compliance with Regulations:
Meeting Standards: Maintaining good IAQ ensures compliance with indoor air quality standards and regulations, which is important for public buildings, workplaces, and residential spaces.
Investing in measures to improve indoor air quality not only provides immediate health benefits but also contributes to a more sustainable and comfortable living and working environment in the long run.
Call Breen & Sullivan Mechanical Services today for full-service plumbing solutions throughout greater Boston’s North Shore.
