COVID-19 has evolved into a global health crisis and Canadians are worried about becoming ill.
The COVID-19 outbreak may be unchartered territory for you, but there are steps you can take to help maintain a safe living space for you and your neighbors.
Can Proper Air Filtration Protect Me from Catching COVID-19?
Proper filtration in HVAC systems can be a segment of general risk mitigation, however, it is not seen as a solution on its own. Some reduced contact may moderately be contingent based on the capability of certain filters to remove particles that hold the virus. In order to have any attempt to halting the spread of the disease, the transmission must occur through an airborne method, air filters must properly be installed and maintained, as well as correctly be designed for the building. Nevertheless, social distancing, proper handwashing, and self-isolation – if required – are still more effective methods in most buildings.
Filters to Use to Protect Those Who Live in Buildings
Is there a specific filter that should be used for protection from COVID-19? There is no clear answer to that given the unknowns about the virus. Current data does not permit to specific recommendations; however, it is known that low-efficiency filters are unlikely to make a difference while high-efficiency filters can eliminate particles of pertinent size depending on their installed captured efficiency. In addition, it is important to note that using the highest-efficiency filter that you may find can be counterproductive; make sure that you are using the filter appropriate for your system.
Taking Precautions When Changing Filters
It is important to change air filters with precautionary measures; turn off the system, wear gloves and mask if possible, and disposed in a sealed bag while outdoors. When changing air filters, it is best to adopt the outlook that there is active microbiological material on them- this better allows for precautionary measures to be taken.
COVID-19 Particle Sizes
Air filtration is a minor part of a solution because it doesn’t largely tackle transmission from close contact amongst individuals or from surface contact. However, the particle size distinguishes between droplet and airborne. Droplets are known to stay airborne for longer periods of time, and they also alter in size based on numerous elements such as the humidity levels around them and how they are composed.