Everything you need to know about Conejo Valley Home Services and preparation/protection from the coronavirus threat As a homeowner, you may be considerably nervous about the threat of COVID-19 and it entering your home as well as affecting your livelihood. There is a very high interest in the role that HVAC might play in the transmission of COVID-19, and we are here to carefully explain the details. We will also be explaining practical HVAC operational measures that will be considered, as well as potential design changes that can reduce the likelihood of the virus spreading. Keep reading to learn more about the right HVAC services and the effect that the coronavirus can potentially have on HVAC systems. Protect Your Home From COVID-19 The new COVID-19 is a type of coronavirus that causes respiratory illnesses to humans. The symptoms of coronavirus range from mild sickness to pneumonia. Typical symptoms usually include fever and flu-like symptoms such as sore throat, shortness of breath, fatigue, and coughing. The virus can be transmitted from person-to-person, most likely when in close contact with an infectious person, or within range of droplets of fluid from an infectious person’s cough or sneeze. COVID-19 may affect HVAC systems – keep reading to learn more about how Conejo Valley Home Services is implementing changes to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

What You Need To Know About HVAC Systems

HVAC is a very common term that people use, and many have a general idea of what it means. HVAC refers to various systems used for moving air between outdoor and indoor areas, along with both cooling and heating commercial and residential buildings. These systems help keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and they are also the systems that keep your indoor air healthy. Not only do the systems regulate temperature, but they are made to improve indoor air quality. The systems work by intaking fresh air (ventilation) and turning it into cool or warm air within your home. Contact Conejo Valley Home Services today at (805) 499-0448 to learn more about HVAC systems and our Air Duct Cleaning services we provide in order to bring quality air into your home.

Preventing COVID-19 By Addressing Practical HVAC Operational Measures

There are quite a few ways to reduce the likelihood of the coronavirus spreading by changing up practical HVAC operational measures as well as possible system changes. Read ASHRAE guidance. The following include disinfection and cleaning, essential safety measures and maintenance regimes, air filtration and cleaning, and system commissioning and operation as well as outside air rates. Let’s take a closer look at what each one means and how it can prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Essential Safety Measures And Safety Regimes

An imperative move to make (especially now) is a continued application of both preventative maintenance routines and good housekeeping. Air filters should be replaced more often, and trained technicians should be utilizing masks and gloves. Dirty filters should be bagged and thrown away, and surfaces should be sanitized and cleaned in order to remove any residual particles.

Air Cleaning And Filtration Options

In standard HVAC systems, filters that are typically installed might not be effective in filtering viruses or droplet nuclei if they do reach the filters. However, a practical method of air cleaning is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, which produces short-wavelength light that disrupts the DNA of microorganisms, including viruses. Units are available and installed in the ductwork or air handling units.

Disinfection And Cleaning

Due to ductwork and lack of access, HVAC systems can be difficult to clean and disinfect. However, they can be cleaned more regularly by changing filters and cleaning the coil surfaces using approved chemicals and methods. Cleaning and sanitizing the systems will always be one of your first steps. RELATED: How to Improve your HVAC System Energy Efficiency

System Commissioning And Operation, As Well As Outside Air Rates

One of the most important things to recognize is if your HVAC systems have been properly commissioned and are operating correctly. Most commercial HVAC systems are designed to produce humidity of 40-60% AH. Studies suggest that this humidity range can have a positive impact on virus deactivation. Also, increased ventilation can dilute contaminants and potentially reduce infections. Call Conejo Valley Home Services today at (805) 499-0448 to receive more information about HVAC systems, as well as how to ensure that your HVAC systems are working properly in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Final Thoughts And Recommendations

The transmission of COVID-19 through properly-maintained HVAC systems in commercial buildings has been noted as a very low risk. However, there are practical measures that homeowners and building owners can take to further reduce the risk, such as adhering to standards, ensuring internal humidity of 40-60% RH, maintaining general cleanliness of HVAC systems, replacing filters regularly, and disinfecting heating and cooling coils, and getting proper lawn maintenance outdoors. These strategies can assist in reducing the spread of infections and ultimately also reduce the spread of COVID-19. Contact Conejo Valley Home Services today to learn more about HVAC maintenance and what we can do to further assist you.