How to Future-Proof Your Air Filtration System

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the critical role of air filtration in safeguarding public health, particularly within enclosed spaces. However, not all air filtration systems offer the same level of protection. While some are adept at eliminating dust and allergens, others possess the capability to trap airborne viruses and bacteria. How can you ensure that your air filtration system aligns with the latest standards and guidelines for optimal air quality?

In this blog, we’ll delve into the future of air filtration and how recent events have heightened awareness regarding its significance, particularly within industrial settings. We’ll also discuss strategies to future-proof your air filtration system to meet evolving demands and ensure the health and safety of occupants.

Before the pandemic, air filtration systems predominantly adhered to the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating, gauging their efficacy in eliminating particles of varying sizes from the air. Despite its utility, MERV ratings overlooked the filtration of biological contaminants, notably viruses and bacteria, which are significantly smaller than common dust and allergens.

In response to this oversight, novel standards and guidelines have emerged, prioritising the capture of airborne pathogens. Examples include the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 52.2 and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) v4 Indoor Air Quality credits. These directives advocate for air filtration systems boasting a MERV rating of at least 13, ideally 14 or higher, to effectively neutralise particles as diminutive as 0.3 microns, encompassing the majority of viruses and bacteria. Additionally, they advocate for enhanced ventilation rates, augmenting the influx of fresh air into buildings to diminish indoor pollutant concentrations.

Such paradigm shifts wield substantial influence across diverse sectors, notably healthcare, education, and hospitality, where indoor air quality profoundly impacts occupants’ well-being. For instance, healthcare facilities and clinics prioritise infection prevention among patients and staff, educational institutions strive to foster conducive learning environments for students and educators, while hospitality venues endeavour to ensure a welcoming and hygienic experience for patrons and guests.

In response to evolving standards and guidelines, air filtration systems have embraced innovative technologies to elevate their performance and efficiency beyond conventional filters. These technologies include:

**Bipolar ionisation: **Harnessing an electric field, this technology generates positive and negative ions that adhere to airborne particles, rendering them more susceptible to filtration. Furthermore, it neutralises a spectrum of harmful substances, including viruses, bacteria, mould, odours, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), by dismantling their molecular composition.

**UV-C light disinfection: **Leveraging ultraviolet light, this method disrupts the DNA or RNA of microorganisms like viruses, bacteria, and fungi, rendering them inactive or eliminating them altogether. Integration within ductwork or near air filtration system coils prevents the proliferation of biological contaminants.

However, despite their efficacy, these technologies harbour limitations. Bipolar ionisation may emit ozone, a hazardous gas with potential respiratory irritants that can exacerbate conditions like asthma. Similarly, UV-C light disinfection poses risks of eye and skin exposure, leading to burns and inflammation. Hence, stringent adherence to manufacturer instructions and safety protocols is paramount.

Augmenting air filtration systems with diverse filtration methods optimises air purification. For instance, a dehumidifier regulates air moisture levels, hindering virus and bacteria propagation. Carbon filters eliminate gaseous pollutants, encompassing VOCs, odours, and smoke, eluding conventional filtration. HEPA filters, capable of capturing particles as minuscule as 0.1 microns, trap even the tiniest viruses and bacteria alongside allergens, dust, and pollen.

At RS, we offer a wide range of products to fortify your air filtration system with cutting-edge technologies and strategies. Whether you are seeking an air purifier, fan, dehumidifier, or filter, our solutions align with your needs. Explore our selection of products here: RSAir FiltrationSolutions

When it comes to choosing the right air filtration system for your needs, there are several factors to consider, such as:

Facility size

The scale of your establishment plays a pivotal role in determining the adequacy and potency of your air filtration system. Opt for a system equipped to manage the volume and circulation of air within your premises, tailored to accommodate the number and activities of occupants.

Budget

Your air filtration system expenditure encompasses various facets, encompassing initial procurement outlay, installation charges, ongoing maintenance expenses, and operational energy consumption. Striking a balance between upfront investment and long-term operational savings is paramount.

Air quality concerns

The nature and severity of air quality issues in your indoor environment profoundly influence the selection of an appropriate air filtration system. Identifying the origins and categories of pollutants, encompassing dust, allergens, viruses, bacteria, mould, VOCs, odours, and smoke, is critical in pinpointing a system proficient in their elimination.

Existing ventilation systems

The seamless compatibility and integration of your chosen air filtration system with prevailing ventilation infrastructures are crucial for optimised performance and efficiency. Ensure that the filtration system neither obstructs nor compromises the functionality of existing ventilation mechanisms and vice versa.

Air filtration stands as a cornerstone in upholding indoor air quality and safeguarding public health and well-being, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. To fortify your air filtration system for the future, adhere to the latest standards and guidelines, embrace innovative technologies and methodologies, and select the optimal solution tailored to your requirements.

At RS, we have a comprehensive array of products and services to elevate your air filtration system to new heights. Explore our website today and start your journey towards breathing easier and healthier.