Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and safety of your facility. You wouldn’t think that your HVAC unit would be so important, but it is responsible for filtering out airborne contaminants. Some of these contaminants are found in industrial and chemical products, while others are found in the natural environment.
Your HVAC system can filter out these three common contaminants that would otherwise put your tenants at risk. If you believe your facility faces issues with these contaminants, it could be time for an HVAC tune-up. Here’s what you need to watch for:
Bacteria and viruses
Bacteria and viruses thrive in dark, wet environments. Unfortunately, your HVAC system provides that prime breeding ground and can help spread germs throughout the facility. This is known as “sick building syndrome.” When bacteria grow inside the HVAC unit, or when a tenant brings in a virus, those germs are circulated through the system and can cause harm to the entire facility.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are gasses that come from building materials and some industrial cleaning products, and they can severely impact indoor air quality. Acetone, benzene, carbon disulfate, and formaldehyde are all very common in commercial settings. These pollutants are often emitted by common commercial supplies and appliances such as:
- Copiers and printers
- Paints and adhesives
- Carpets
- Industrial cleaning supplies
- Pesticides
Outdoor pollutants
You wouldn’t think that smog would be a problem inside your building, but the outdoor environment can impact indoor air quality if your HVAC isn’t sized properly. If your facility is in an urban area with high levels of pollution, you will need a higher performance HVAC system than if your facility is in a secluded real area.
These pollutants can easily infiltrate your facility if you’re not carefully maintaining your HVAC units. If they do, they can cause a number of health problems to your tenants and staff including respiratory problems, congestion, eye and skin irritation, headaches, and exacerbation of asthma symptoms. However, you can prevent these problems by calling MaintenX for full-service HVAC maintenance.
MaintenX is a top provider of HVAC repair, preventative care, and emergency services nationwide. Our contractor network is highly rated not only for their superior skill but for their dedication to customer service. To learn more about your HVAC maintenance options, call your local MaintenX team today!
