Speaker: Harry Topikian, P.E.

Topic: How to Mitigate the Transmission of Viruses via HVAC Systems

Over the last few months, the CDC, WHO, as well as ASHRAE and other regulatory and advisory bodies have concluded that there is now sufficient evidence of airborne transmission of COVID-19 to justify improving ventilation and filtration of buildings in order to render them safe for their occupants. Mitigation of COVID-19 requires increased OA ventilation and enhanced filtration that could be costly to operate and in some climates make the long term problem worse by introducing mold and mildew into the building.

However, in most existing buildings upgrading existing HVAC systems to effectively tackle viruses may also be an opportunity for an energy upgrade that will payback in healthy indoor environments as well as lower energy costs for years to come.

This presentation will focus on the following:

• What we know about COVID-19 and other viruses
• How bioaerosols travel and their lifespan
• How airborne pathogens can be transmitted via HVAC and some DOAS units
• Side effects of increased ventilation
• The effectiveness of different filters
• How UVC can be used as a supplement to filtration
• Portable units and system upgrade options with guidance on Air Change Rates
• Effects of Room pressurization on virus mitigation
• Improvements made to RTU's over the years in order to reduce energy costs
• What are some of the retrofit options for older RTUs that can effectively mitigate Viruses as well as help in meeting the latest ventilation, acoustic, and energy standards and regulations?