HVAC and Sick Days. Is there a link?

With Fall nearly upon us, it’s about time for scarves, soups, and… sick days. Everyone has experienced a bug going around the office. Did you know that an uptick in sick days could be related to your HVAC system?

It’s true. When there is a properly-maintained indoor air quality system installed, the number of allergens and bacteria in the air you breathe are being significantly reduced.

If you own or operate a commercial building, then you know how important it is that the people in your building stay healthy. If workers are sick, then productivty drops. So, it’s critical to provide a healthy and safe work environment.

Most Americans spend up to 90 percent of their time indoors. Many of those hours are spent at the workplace. So when the indoor environment is clean, you can save on health insurance costs and reduce absenteeism.

Some common indoor air quality problems that are common in offices include:

• Not enough ventilation
• Uncomfortable temperatures
• Humidity that’s too high or too low
• Not controlling emissions (like smelly microwaved lunches or toner from the copy machine)
• Improper cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces

The best way to reduce sick days for the people in your building is to improve your indoor air quality (IAQ). One way to do that is to control humidity. Another way is to install an IAQ device within your heating and cooling system.

IAQ Devices IN HVAC SYSTEMS REDUCE SICK DAYS

Even though commercial buildings require specific amounts of outdoor air, that doesn’t mean the air is fresh. Pollen, ragweed, and other particulates from the outside can make it into the building through doors and windows. Also, a majority of the air in commercial buildings is recirculated. So any bacteria, viruses, or other particles stay in the building’s air for extended periods.

Every heating and cooling system should have a standard air filter. But, some particulates are too small for the filter to catch. Even if bacteria or pollen makes its way to the filter media, those cold-causing particles can still make it through the filter. Then, they’ll get sent in the ductwork right back into the building.

Two solutions that can put an end to the germs circulating in your building.

• Electronic air cleaners are basically an air purifier for your entire space. It’s installed inside your ductwork, so it cleans 100% of the air in your building.
• Ultraviolet sterilizers eliminate bacteria upon contact. The coil-based model kills up to 99.9% of surface mold on your central AC components.

Air Quality Solutions from Brody Pennell

As the winter nears and allergies become an issue in your building, be sure to call Brody Pennell for your air quality needs. We have the experience and technology the best solutions for your business. For 70 years Brody Pennell has served Los Angeles businesses. Our technicians are the best in the business. Let us assist you with your IAQ needs today!