Category: HVAC

Researchers Look to UVGI To Improve HVAC Performance

HVAC Innovation

Researchers are looking into a new way to improve the air quality and energy efficiency of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. A team from Penn State University have been testing whether ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) would work to help maintain cooling coils and keep them clean.

The team went about testing the air flow, humidity, and pressure drop before and after cleaning the cooling coils with UVGI. They will then use that data to measure what the benefits would be of using it.

HVAC Operations

When an HVAC system is running, microorganisms collect on the coils that transfer heat throughout the system. These fungi and bacteria, along with other materials, can build up to a point that affect the performance of the system as a whole. More energy is used to make up for the gap in performance. Not only that, but the microorganisms are also spread into the building. The condensation that forms on heat transfer coils are what make them particularly susceptible to contamination.

What to Do

There are a few current options for cleaning the coils. They include mechanical and chemical methods. UVGI is also currently used, but because there is very little research about its effectiveness, it is not common. UVGI is a common disinfectant for other applications, but there are concerns not just about the effectiveness for HVAC systems, but also whether it negatively affects air quality. This new research is meant to make determinations on these questions.

The project is currently operating at two test sites. Not only will they be collecting immediate data, but they will also collect data over time to see if the results hold up in the long term. That way, they can see if UVGI continues to be safe and effective after several uses.

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) have been working to “maximize the actual operational energy performance of buildings and facilities,” and this research coincides with that effort. The hope is that UVGI will prove to be a safe and effective cleaner for HVAC systems, and can be used more widely.

There is a movement across all industries and sectors to be more energy efficient and safer in all things. HVAC systems will continue to improve in both factors through research like this.

If you have any needs for commercial HVAC services, Corporate Mechanical can help. Reach out online or call us at 763-533-3070

Why Hire a Ventilation Service Professional?

Ventilation in your office building is one of the most important aspects of an airtight and environmentally friendly facility. It can help to control the moisture level in the home and to provide energy efficiency, comfortable and healthy place to work. Many people don’t understand just how important it really is. Not only does it eliminate bacteria and disease, but it also allows the exchange of outdoor air with indoor air. Ventilation minimizes odors, moisture and indoor pollutants. Poor ventilation can lead to the growth of volatile organic compounds, radon and formaldehyde in your business. Even high levels of moisture can raise the humidity level leadings to mold growth and structural damage.

When ventilating your business, a professional company such as Corporate Mechanical can make sure that your building is accommodated at a rate of .35 air changes per hour. Proper ventilation should be able to accommodate the best quality of indoor air. The standard ventilation rate is 15 cubic feet per minute. As you can see, it’s important to hire a professional who is used to these calculations and can ensure the proper ventilation is used in your particular building.

It’s also critical that the company you hire for this service understands the basic functions of ventilation before a plan is devised. The ventilation system created should be able to draw in air from the outside, which can consist of less pollutants as well as water vapor. Corporate Mechanical offers a complete ventilation solution using the most updated equipment for your next project at your business. For a properly ventilated business, choose a professional company that is properly trained, experienced and insured. Serving Minnesota residents, they believe in providing a quality service experience to each of their customers time and time again.