Air handling units bring in essential components to create an indoor atmosphere that is both comfortable and healthy. The center of the operations is the fan which works effortlessly to push air out of the system. The next are filters which capture dust and pollutants to enable healthy air to circulate in the indoor space. Cooling and heating coils, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers help in fine-tuning the temperature and humidity. Dampers work by controlling the airflow while the mixing chamber circulates indoor and outdoor air.
The indoor air quality solutions that are suggested during building design must take particular users and situations into account. The kind of building in issue greatly influences the decisions and trade-offs made about ventilation systems, as well as the volume and velocity of airflow.
Filter maintenance
Filters play an essential role as routine maintenance can help in avoiding airborne pollutants. Regular inspections and correct time filter replacements ensure smooth working. Moisture is also a challenge for AHUs, as microbial growth can develop within the system which can create mold and bacteria in indoor space. Keeping a regulated humidity level is the key to avoiding microbial growth.
Ventilation rates
Ventilation is highly important to predict the air exchange, low rates of air exchange can end up in a buildup of pollutants which can disrupt the balance of IAQ. Architects carefully create design ventilation systems to enable a straight flow of air. Not all pollutants can inevitably be caught through the filters. Any gases, odors, and organic compounds can also not be caught through the best working AHU. Experts must be aware of addressing these challenges and apply additional strategies to work against these contaminants.
Duct contamination
In the complex ductwork of an air handling unit, dust and debris can collect which is detrimental to its performance. Routine cleaning and maintenance are the core of keeping AHU working efficiently.
In spaces where there are high amounts of outdoor air pollution, generally filtering the intake air can be the best solution to enable a good IAQ. Any extra air filtration stages or alternative ventilation strategies can be beneficial. It is a challenging task to balance IAQ with energy efficiency. Increasing ventilation rates enable improved IAQ but also leads to higher energy consumption.
Specialists have looked for further strategies to enhance AHUs for better IAQ and energy efficiency. Architecture and AHUs play an essential role in shaping indoor air quality. Only by understanding the challenges and applying good strategies can architects create buildings with better IAQ. This will allow to better the occupant’s health and well-being.
