Talking Air Filtration

In this episode, Kevin Delahunt presents his insights on HVAC design and maintenance, going beyond filter performance to explore reducing particulate load in occupied spaces, the importance of filter hardware, designing for extraordinaryevents, and more. Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to design and maintain HVAC filtration systems that not only meet current standards but also ensure the health and safety of building occupants.Practical insights and case studies will provide actionable steps for immediate implementation in their own projects.View Kevin’s presentation here. For detailed show notes, read below and use the timestamps to navigate the episode:[2:43] Kevin says there is an opportunity going forward to build messaging targeted toward engineers, designers, and other industry experts. [3:52] One of the biggest problems facing the facility management industry is the “pandemic effect” – there is still a high vacancy rate in many facilities. As people return to the office, they have questions about how safe the air they’re breathing is. [6:16] How did we get to MERV 13? To reduce the spread of infectious disease, ASHRAE suggests mechanical filterefficiency should be MERV 13 or higher.[9:49] The pandemic has emphasized hardware issues. Filter hardware has not kept pace with filter technology.Additionally, physical units lack space to upgrade to better filters.[16:40] If it doesn’t fit, it doesn’t filter. 100% of the air needs to go through the filter for it to perform effectively. [17:50] There are 130,000 K-12 schools in North America, with an average age of 50. Each of these schools has an averageof 10 HVAC systems. 40% of those systems need to be replaced immediately.[20:30] In 2023, 15 million hectares were burnt in the Canada wildfires – about the size of Illinois. Filtration professionals could upgrade filters during wildfire season to account for this.[24:00] Commercial buildings collect data on air quality, but do not share that data. Kevin says that sharing air quality data could give businesses a competitive advantage.

The air filtration landscape has shifted significantly since the pandemic. In this presentation, Kyle Megna of Air Things discusses the transformative impact of the pandemic on indoor air quality. He examines the latest trends in IAQ data, reviews critical legislative updates, highlights new funding avenues, and analyzes market shifts that are influencing both residential and commercial spaces.View Kyle’s presentation here.For detailed show notes, read below and use the timestamps to navigate the episode:[2:01] The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the most engagement that we have seen in air quality for over fifty years. The pandemic taught us to mask, socially distance, and wash our hands; but people continued to get sick. [5:31] In 2021, 73% of people in the US say that their awareness of air quality has increased since the pandemic. However, only 26% of employers are making changes to their air filtration systems.[9:10] Air quality is improving, but 36% of Americans still live in places with failing grades for unhealthy levels of ozone or particle pollution.[10:53] Indoor air quality has worsened as a side effect of energy-efficient buildings. These buildings are airtight to prevent energy leakage, which also results in poor filtration. [13:21] Indoor C02 is getting worse in residential areas in the summer, while the curve is flatter for business spaces. [14:30] There is currently no legislation on indoor air quality at the federal levels, but many states are targeting air quality in schools. California’s CalSHAPE program incentivizes schools to update their HVAC systems. [18:00] Schools that receive the grants must monitor C02, and C02 is the only measure the state looks at. California has fallen short on outlining what happens when schools exceed the maximum C02 levels. [20:38] Kyle discusses the school air standards in Colorado, Maryland, and Oregon. [24:57] ESSER is essentially a blank check; there are few restrictions on spending ESSER funds. RENEW has more guidelines.[27:21] LEED is the most well-known of the programs, with version five changes coming in 2025. WELL is beginning to pick up in the US, offering a more holistic approach.

In this presentation, Alex Chausovsky tackles one of the biggest challenges in today’s workforce: attracting, hiring, and retaining top talent. Despite economic headwinds, the competition for skilled professionals remains fierce. Some organizations are stuck in outdated hiring practices while others are thriving by leveraging data-driven insights and innovative strategies. Where does your organization stand? And where do you want it to be? Tune in to learn how to build an effective talent strategy, and to learn why you need one.View Alex’s Presentation here.For detailed show notes, read below and use the timestamps to navigate the episode:[2:32] Alex’s presentation will address the three pillars of talent strategy: attracting talent, hiring and onboarding, and talent retention. He will offer specific practices that businesses can implement.[4:24] There has been a fundamental shift in the labor market in the post-COVID world. This shift is driven mainly by the choice available to people.[8:55] While we have reached an average unemployment rate overall, the unemployment rate for specific positions is low. This applies to many relevant positions within air filtration, such as instillation.[13:10] Candidates no longer have the same kind of leverage that they did in 2021 and 2022. Employers and candidates are now similarly matched, with close to a one-to-one ratio of job seekers to open positions.[19:22] Roughly 60% of all workers are in office full-time, 20% are hybrid, and about 15% is fully remote.[20:48] Most companies do not have a talent strategy. A talent strategy involves top leadership and HR taking a strategic approach to hiring, onboarding, and retention.[23:30] Why would someone want to come and work for you? Research shows that culture is not a very important factor while compensation, benefits, and flexibility are more important.[28:03] CLAMPS stands from challenge, motivation, advancement, money, people, and security. These are the top motivators for candidates, though different candidates rank them differently. Alex suggests asking candidates to fill out a survey to rank these motivators to better tailor your conversation.[33:45] Proactive engagement is critical to fill specialized roles. By having someone in your HR department ask potential candidates to apply, you can improve your hiring productivity by 70%.[38:29] Lastly, Alex discusses retention. The number one reason people have left their jobs since COVID is because their pay and benefits were not competitive. As of the latest data, people who stay at their jobs get an average of 4.7% more pay each year while people who switch get more than 6%.[45:45] The new dynamic between employers and employees is more collaborative than it used to be. Overly commanding supervisors can harm retention.

In this roundtable discussion, Alex Chausovsky leads a conversation on how companies are responding to the labor market conditions. Attendees discuss hiring, automation, and artificial intelligence. Learn about the industry trends driving the top teams in filtration and gain valuable insights on maximizing your team’s performance.View the slides here: https://amped.egnyte.com/dl/eFWXi2SlLkFor detailed show notes, read below and use the timestamps to navigate the episode:[2:13] The first question asks how companies address talent availability and retention.[3:49] One table found a consensus around competitive pay, with some attendees bringing up flexibility and listening to your employees concerns and ideas.[5:07] A second table brings up benefits and employee engagement. A third table cites PTO and recognition of accomplishments.[7:50] The second question asks where attendees see opportunities for automation to address labor shortages.[9:48] Accounting, order entry, service, and deliveries are some popular areas for automation among attendees.[12:50] On the hardware side, one attendee brings up warehouse and packaging systems. His company implemented barcode scanning, which has reduced errors and increased efficiency.[14:23] The next question asks how AI is changing the way industry leaders do business.[16:25] One participant sees content writing, specifically in PR and marketing, as the main use for AI in his company. Another uses AI for some HR functions and market research.[18:49] Alex asks about AI agents, and while no attendees have direct experience with adding an AI agent to their website to interact with customers, one brings up AI as a notetaker in meetings.

In this recorded technical seminar, Jeffery Siegel, Ph.D., discusses two methods of assessing filter testing in any environment, rather than a laboratory. Both use low-cost instrumentation and provide a direct assessment of air cleaning performance. Results from portable and central air cleaning systems in a variety of different environments such as classrooms, offices, and homes show the real value of filters is specific to an environment and can be used to illustrate the direct benefit of filtration.View Dr. Siegel’s slides here: https://amped.egnyte.com/dl/60rxksuelJFor detailed show notes, read below and use the timestamps to navigate the episode:[0:48] A speaker introduces Dr. Jeffery Siegel. He is internationally recognized for his work and research on indoor air quality.[2:15] Dr. Siegel presents a passage from Leviticus about what to do if there is a moisture problem in your home to show that human beings have cared about indoor air quality for as long as they have had buildings.[4:08] Air filtration has had a much shorter history. Standard 52.2 at ASHRAE is only 25 years old. However, we know now that we should be investing in air filtration for return on investment in avoided healthcare costs.[6:10] We know that filtration directly impacts health, as Dr. Siegel was part of a study that showed clear evidence that using filtration is effective in reducing PM concentrations.[7:14] A study of 123 elementary schools in the Fall of 2020 in Georgia showed that schools that invested in filtration had a clear reduction in COVID-19 cases.[10:14] Dr. Siegel argues that even though we recognize the benefit of air quality, we have not seen much action to promote filtration.[12:00] The University of Toronto overestimated the amount of air changes they were getting in their classrooms from their filtration.[14:24] Filters do not necessarily perform the way that we think that they should, which can lead to doubt surrounding filtration.[17:28] In some studies, filtration makes a huge difference. In others, the difference is very small. The context matters to filter performance.[18:27] Dr. Seigel explains that we need a way to more accurately assess how filters perform.[20:14] Using a machine learning approach, researchers can take raw data and find all of the places where the concentration decreases.[24:04] Dr. Seigel calls his other approach “Flip-Flop Testing.” It is a simpler way to test a cleaning strategy’s impact on air quality.[26:00] The periods between the air cleaner and the placebo should be two hours and thirty minutes.[28:41] The same air cleaner will perform differently in different environments.[29:34] Dr. Seigel speaks about his ideal testing period to get an accurate median and capture some variation within a reasonable amount of time.[30:25] Does the monitor matter? Some low-cost monitors do not perform as well at higher concentrations.[34:50] Dr. Seigel expresses his interest in measuring byproducts.[36:28] Dr. Seigel discusses blinded testing in which researchers will not know what filter was installed, to avoid bias.[38:06] Dr. Seigel asks the audience to consider whether customers will understand that the same filter will perform differently in different environments.[39:33] Dr. Seigel is conducting ongoing research on the effect of air quality on cognitive function. He found in his research that essential oil diffuser emissions affect people’s cognitive function.[41:55] Recent literature suggests that VOCs might be very important to cognitive function independent of any effects of particles.[42:28] Can we use filters better? Amy Li considered four control strategies for filtration.[49:09] Dr. Siegel says it is a great time for filtration research, but experts must provide evidence that filtration works.[49:40] In a Q&A section, one attendee asks about Dr. Seigel’s testing related to COVID-19.[51:52] Another attendee asks about the effectiveness of ionic generators.

Expert panelists Brandon Deilgat (CAFS, American Metal Filter Company), David McKinney (SoCal Filters and Service Inc.), and Norman Rodriques (Springfield Spring Corporation) explore the pivotal role frames and latches play in upholding system integrity and optimizing filter performance. They cover practical, actionable strategies for leveraging frames and latches to fortify your systems and unlock their full potential. Whether you're an engineer or a professional in the field, this session offers essential insights for elevating your system's reliability and performance. View the panelists’ slides here:⁠ https://amped.egnyte.com/dl/lyk3jpY6Cn For detailed show notes, read below and use the timestamps to navigate the episode: [0:48] Brandon Deilgat and Norman Rodriques introduce themselves. Norman explains his work at Springfield Spring Corporation and how he began his career at Flanders. [3:10] Mr. Rodriques partnered with the American Metal Filter Company and SoCal Filters and Service Inc. because filters, frames, and clips need to function together to eliminate bypass. During the COVID-19 pandemic, filtration in general and bypass elimination specifically gained attention because COVID-19 is an airborne illness, but some filters let it through. [7:30] David McKinney introduces himself. He is a new member of NAFA, and his company SoCal is a filter distributor and offers filter services. He says that a filter is only as good as its security to a frame, so clips, latches, and inspection are crucial to performance. [8:46] Brandon introduces the universal holding frame. It is a 3-inch depth, 16-gage, with galvanized steel or stainless steel all-welded construction meant to last for the lifespan of the unit it is installed into. It is used for built-up filter banks and allows for multiple filter options [9:38] There are two types of clip attachments. The Flage-fit clip or knock-on attaches directly to the flange of the frame. [11:13] The second is a lance-installed or wire-type clip. This uses the lance-informed grooves on the universal holding fame. [11:37] David notes that people sometimes try to climb on the lances and bend them. Once the lance is bent, the clip will no longer fit in the frame. [12:14] Brandon discusses centering dimples, which are made to exact size. This allows for the best chance of installing the filter directly in the center of the frame and eliminating air bypass. [12:44] Norman talks about examples of standard clips like P-clips, and extension spring clips. He also introduces non-standard clips like the versa-m. [14:45] Most V-bank filters have pockets in the header, so Norman’s company developed a P-clip that fits into those pockets. David speaks to the usefulness of these clips. [16:53] David talks about his preference for P-clips over corner-clips. Corner clips take more time to install. [18:01] Brandon and David discuss standard sizing for the universal holding frame. Moving outside of the standard 24x24, 20x24, and 12x24, sizes eliminates the available compatible parts. [19:30] Brandon and David talk about applications since the COVID-19 pandemic. David discusses inspecting systems and making sure filters are sealed properly. Great filters perform poorly if they are not sealed correctly. [22:05] Brandon talks about filter combinations. David says it is important to learn about the different kinds of clips used for different kinds of filters. P-clips are available for everything while corner clips are used for 1-inch filters, headers, or 2-inch deep filters. Spring clips are used for reverse mounts or box filters. [23:15] David advises the attendees that when installing a 4V in a reverse mount application, it is important that they apply spring clips on the top and the bottom, not horizontally. [26:10] Norman explains how he manufactures all stainless clips. [27:44] To install filters that eliminate bypass more effectively, everything should be gasketed and clipped properly.

UVGI system experts Jay Carter of Sanuvox and Dale Harrison of Fresh Aire UV explain the science and applications of Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI) lamps. He explores the types of UVGI systems that can be installed in HVAC systems and facilities. Listen to expert tips and techniques to properly size and install several different types of UVGI systems, including maintenance and electrical requirements. The presentation was recorded at the 2023 Technical Seminar in Atlanta, GA. View the presentation slides here: https://amped.egnyte.com/dl/XWqbY8Log9 For detailed show notes, read below and use the timestamps to navigate the episode: [0:48] The speaker explains how installing Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI) lamps inside a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system improves air quality. [1:30] Jay Carter of Sanuvox introduces himself and the presentation on UVGI lamps. [2:40] Mr. Carter introduces the key terms he will define: frequency, intensity, and dose. These are the key factors that impact UVGI performance. [3:24] Mr. Carter explains that UV-C, or germicidal UV, is classified as light between 100 and 280 nanometers. The most efficient electrical delivery of germicidal is low-pressure mercury vapor lamps. [4:31] Ozone is formed every time the light frequency is below 240nm. Lower frequencies can break oxygen bonds, resulting in the formation of ozone. [5:32] Mr. Carter defines UV intensity as the measurement on a surface at a specific distance of the magnitude of UV light, or the amount of UV power. It is measured in microwatts per centimeter squared. The intensity number reduces as the distance from the lamp increases. [8:21] UVGI Lamps age and depreciate in capacity based on burn time. Most manufacturers recommend changing them every year, while others recommend waiting two years. [9:33] Mr. Carter defines “dose” as the method for measuring UV effectiveness in an environment. Comparing dose to the caliber of a gun, Mr. Carter explains that a different dose is necessary depending on the microbe that the user intends to target. [12:30] Mr. Carter delves into common UVGI application types. He explains that UV will clean evaporator coils all the way through, thereby destroying microorganisms and replenishing capacity. [16:10] Mr. Carter examines three different types of air disinfection applications. He explains that lamps are sometimes positioned parallel to the air stream to maximize contact time. [18:50] Mr. Carter explains that not all UV lamps are created equal. Ballasts and lamps work in combination, so a faulty pairing of lamps and ballasts can negatively impact the performance of a lamp. [20:45] Mr. Harrison speaks about the applications of UVGI lamps in classrooms, hospitals, and airports. He explains that natural air convection helps the lamps sterilize these spaces. [22:05] Mr. Carter encourages experts to take a needs-based approach in their recommendations rather than attempting to push a solution without adequate explanation. [23:50] UVGI is set apart from other technologies because of its extensive history of peer-reviewed testing. The science behind UVGI is over half a century old. [26:23] Mr. Harrison explains the importance of accurate data to the application of UVGI technology. [28:21] Harrison and Carter introduce the question section of their discussion. An attendee asks if there is a protocol for the disposal of lamps. [29:05] An attendee asks if Harrison and Carter have seen an increase in installations to larger rooftop units. [30:44] An attendee asks about the use of UV for coil cleaning in situations with serious calcium buildup. [32:24] An attendee asks whether ozone monitoring is available for UVGI lamps. [36:48] The popularity of UV increased after the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing a new demand for the technology. [39:32] Mr. Harrison discusses UV exposure and safety, advising individuals to treat UV like electricity.

In this episode of the Talking Air Filtration Podcast, Jeff Littleton, Executive Vice President of ASHRAE, discusses the organization's current priorities, accomplishments, and future goals. He highlights ASHRAE's extensive global reach with 53,000 members in 130 countries and its involvement in research and standards development related to HVAC and air filtration. Emphasis is placed on collaboration with NAFA, the new net-zero ASHRAE headquarters, emerging standards on infectious aerosols, the push towards building decarbonization, and the potential impact of artificial intelligence on building design and performance. Numerous opportunities for participation and engagement with ASHRAE's initiatives are outlined, including involvement in technical committees, research projects, and government affairs. View the speaker’s slides here: https://amped.egnyte.com/dl/LoDEUYDrU4 For detailed show notes, read below and use the timestamps to navigate the episode: [1:00] Introduction to Talking Air Filtration Podcast and guest Jeff Littleton. Discussion on the importance of clean air and ASHRAE's net-zero facility. [3:00] Overview of ASHRAE's mission, global membership, and collaboration with NAFA. [6:45] Explanation of ASHRAE's administrative and technical committees, standards, and guidelines. [13:15] Discussion on ASHRAE's research initiatives, conferences, and educational courses. [18:42] Introduction to new standards, including 241P for infectious aerosols, and the process of standard development. [25:00] Details on building decarbonization, the significance of embodied carbon, and future expectations for EPDs in air filtration components. [34:20] Exploration of AI in building design and its potential impact on ASHRAE standards and building performance. [45:05] Closing thoughts on ASHRAE priorities and audience questions regarding net-zero building costs, research project monitoring, and collaboration with government bodies on IAQ and decarbonization initiatives.

In this episode of the Talking Air Filtration Podcast, we are joined by Don Milton from the University of Maryland School of Public Health. Milton, an expert in infectious bioaerosols and respiratory virus transmission, discusses the importance of clean indoor air and the impact of airborne infections like COVID-19 and influenza. Highlights include detailed discussions on respiratory particle transmission, both through fine aerosols and surface contamination, and the effectiveness of various preventive measures such as masks, ventilation, and ultraviolet (UV) light. Milton emphasizes the critical role of engineering controls in controlling viral transmission and addresses the social implications and challenges of implementing these strategies. Insights from various studies underscore the need for layered prevention approaches in both public spaces and homes. Here is the conference program so you can see what's on each Day 1, 2, 3 File. https://amped.egnyte.com/dl/4wUI0RL73b Timestamps to navigate the episode: [00:00] Introduction to the Talking Air Filtration Podcast [00:48] Guest Introduction: Don Milton [01:53] Understanding Respiratory Virus Transmission [02:11] Analyzing Pandemic Data and Trends [04:25] Modes of Respiratory Virus Transmission [09:30] Importance of Air Filtration and Certification [10:01] Evidence of Airborne Transmission [13:44] Effectiveness of Masks and Ventilation [23:36] Role of UV in Virus Inactivation [31:31] Conclusion and Q&A

NAFA Clean Air Award panel featuring air filtration professionals Will Denton, CAFS, NCT II, and Sharon Needham, CAFS, NCT, engaging in dialogue with Moderator Brandon Deilgat to inform fellow air filtration professionals on navigating the marketplace and industry. They discuss the most relevant certifications demonstrating the best principles and application of air filtration technology and the Clean Air Awards. Download Brandon Deilgat's PowerPoint:https://amped.egnyte.com/dl/Ehd2IHehEg For detailed show notes, read below and use the timestamps to navigate the episode: (0:00) Beginning of episode [3:52] Will describes what being a Certified Air Filtration Specialist (CAFS) means to NAFA and why air filtration professionals should consider receiving the certification. The benefits are numerous, including the credibility needed to stand out in today's market, the ability to remain up to date and evolve with the industry and its technology, and the potential for increased sales numbers as well-informed problem solvers and certified guides for customers in air filtration products. Wills’ pro tip for companies is to attach the earning potential of their sales team to becoming certified, further incentivizing the process. [11:25] Will and Sharon discuss the two levels of NAFA certification, the Certified Air Filter Specialist (CAFS) and the NCTII. They explain the rapid implementation of techniques and best practices that these certifications offer. The program and guide only forces companies or professionals to specialize in something other than something. Installation knowledge is essential - air filtration is only as good as how it was installed. [17:17] The Clean Air Awards are based on a comprehensive points system that evaluates various aspects of a company's commitment to clean air. This system encourages companies to participate as an internal incentive for professionals. Winning this award is an excellent opportunity for companies to solidify partnerships with the customer and their facility. The mentality among manufacturers holds them back from utilizing NAFA certification opportunities to help them stand out as credible professionals. [25:04] Statistics show that the Clean Air Awards are not as widely examined as they could be, and the number of active Certified Air Filter Specialists (CAFS) per company is relatively low. This presents a significant opportunity for companies to stand out and demonstrate their commitment to clean air. Planning for the future should involve inclusive efforts to network with customers who value a clean air award.

Zach Konway explores air pollutants and the sensor technologies available to measure pollutants. Gain insight into the advantages and disadvantages of various sensor technologies. Tackle industry myths and facts as they pertain to air quality monitoring. Learn the advantages of continuous air quality monitoring and how air quality data may be leveraged with purification and ventilation for a healthier building environment. View the slides from Mr. Konway's presentation: https://amped.egnyte.com/dl/mqqbmdCH4E For detailed show notes, read below and use the timestamps to navigate the episode: [3:42] Mr. Konway introduces indoor air quality and the benefits of measuring it. One of the first techniques was the use of canaries in coal mines. Continuous air quality ensures that concerns are addressed before they become widespread. Other benefits include saving energy without compromising the environment of an infrastructure or the occupants' health. Clean air is due to removing pollutants at the source and infrastructure material that doesn’t compromise health and efficient clean air devices. [8:18] Mr. Konway focuses on the following pollutants and their sensor technologies, starting with particulate matter, the most harmful and common air pollutant. Studies have shown a correlation between high concentrations of this pollutant and a drop in productivity. Carbon dioxide can affect cognitive function. Volatile organic compounds (VOC) commonly enter a building through materials such as paint and carpet. Radon is the second cause of lung cancer after smoking. The last pollutant he covers is ozone, formed from high voltage and reactions with Nox or VOCs, UV light, and oxygen. [24:56] Mr. Konway describes relative humidity's role in transmitting a pathogen or virus in occupied spaces. [25:52]Mr. Konway reviews how IAQ data gives insight into the filtration system and slows down viral spread. It can assist building management in ensuring that radon is not present, showing that the equipment is working properly and when efficiency decreases. [28:35] Mr. Konway reviews the key benchmarks to strive for when monitoring occupied spaces, including the concentration of particulate matter, carbon dioxide, radon, relative humidity, and volatile organic compounds. [29:51] Mr. Konway concludes with key takeaways from his presentation, including device utilization, calibration, and what gases it will measure. Other considerations should focus on evaluating air quality monitoring companies and the project's goals.

This episode is from NAFA’s Tech Seminar, recorded in April 2022. Our speaker was Dr. Jordan Clark from The Ohio State University. As in many engineering problems, the control of our indoor environments is rapidly moving from a prescriptive, rule-of-thumb paradigm to an entirely data-driven paradigm enabled by the Internet of things. The first step in such a shift is generating data reliably and cheaply with low-cost sensing. To this end, we will look at several studies of the performance of low-cost airborne pollutant sensors, and will discuss their strengths, weaknesses, and application domain. Finally, we will look at some things we can do with these sensors once they are robust and reliable. View the slides from ⁠Dr. Jordan Clark's presentation⁠. For detailed show notes, read below and use the timestamps to navigate the episode: [2:08] Dr. Clark describes the engineering controls for air filtration in buildings. Prescribed ventilation rates and filter rates mean releasing quantities of air and waiting for feedback. We don’t have performance-based metrics or real-time feedback to avoid high costs of money and energy. An aging electrical infrastructure can’t keep up with grid peak times in buildings across all sectors and homes. [5:07] Dr. Clark examines the evolution of prescribed air rates within Standard 62 over time from an ASHVE article. In the late 19th century, the germ theory was developed, starting the hygiene revolution that influenced the implementation of natural air ventilation. In the middle of the 20th century, central air conditioning and heating were adopted and costly. The energy crisis at the beginning of the 1980s caused the ventilation rate to decrease. Now, the ventilation rate is prescribed per person per floor area. What we should expect in the future post-pandemic is still ambiguous. One idea is to treat buildings like hospitals to reduce the transmission of viruses. We require a reevaluation of ventilation rates and consumption of energy. [9:39] Dr. Clark reviews the US Department of Energy's depiction of a grid-interactive, efficient building of the future. However, there is no mention of air quality, and that is what Dr. Clark is working on. [10:38] The first step to getting that data is using the hardware to measure quality in real-time. Air quality sensors constantly evolve, but the current focus is on low-cost particle sensors, which cost about $1,000 USD. Dr. Clark reviews the anatomy of this device. [15:15] Dr. Clark describes his performance testing as field testing with naturally occurring particle sources like gravel roads and highways. Other sources were created in the form of essential home functions like cooking. A comparison of devices and measured the sensor detection of events and if the sensor can return to baseline after an event. Other tasks included quantitating exposure to events, averaging times of performance, determining the functional range for sensors, and determining correlation and linearity among models. [23:25] Sensor performance based on sources is evaluated and found to be insensitive to building temperature. Further analysis showed that this temperature defect was a light and optical defect. Sensors are, however, significantly sensitive to humidity. Dr. Clark expands on performance as a function of size, which was evaluated to show calibration for a specific particle size. His takeaways from his research and literature help make predictions on the drift or long-term changes in performance. [31:11] Dr. Clark concludes with gas sensors and total volatile organic compound (TVOC) detection. A total VOC sensor in low-cost particle sensor devices has limitations compared to a colorimetric Formaldehyde Sensor. The predictive abilities examined using machine learning and low-cost sensors didn't lead to any concrete conclusions. [36:08 ] Q & A session with Dr. Clark.

NAFA recently published the Best Practices and Guidelines document, Filtration for Continuing Care Retirement Communities. Patrick Rosenthal, CAFS (lead author of this NAFA Guideline) will educate HVAC and air filtration professionals on what facility managers need to know about clean air in continuing care retirement communities. Download 2023 Best Practices and Guidelines Webinar Filtration for Continuing Care Retirement Communities Slide Deck Download Filtration for Continuing Care Retirement Communities Best Practices and Guideline About NAFA Air Filtration Best Practice Guidelines: What’s the difference between ASHRAE has Standard 52.2 and NAFA’s Best Practices and Guidelines? The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has minimum standards for air filtration. Organizations like the National Air Filtration Association (NAFA) go beyond these minimum standards. NAFA publishes best practices and guidelines for several facility applications based on the experience and expertise of their membership, as well as current mandates and research provided by governmental and scientific communities. HVAC and air filtration professionals should use NAFA’s Best Practices and Guidelines as a tool to educate their clients on how to protect their facilities’ occupants.