Integrating Commercial Air Purification Systems into Your Facilities

Organizations aim to ensure a healthy and comfortable working environment for their team members, clients, and visitors. However, in the absence of an efficient air quality plan, even the organizations that prioritize health and wellness are missing an important factor to ensure the well-being of occupants. By prioritizing HEPA-grade air purification throughout their premises, organizations can reap the benefits of improved air quality that go beyond just better breathing.

Occupants are well aware of the impact of air quality on their health. There has been a push for cleaner indoor air in workplaces by public health researchers, national associations, and the White House, recognizing the role employers, contractors, and consultants can play in designing and improving workplaces for better indoor air quality (IAQ). In a survey conducted by Fellowes, over 1,000 employees of all ages were asked about the cleanliness of their air, and only 1-in-3 reported very clean air. However, 73% of the people surveyed agreed that the quality of the air they breathe directly affects their health and well-being. In this article, we will outline how Fellowes' line of air purifiers can help you improve the IAQ of your facility.

Types of Airborne Contaminants in Commercial Buildings

Common contaminants in the air in commercial buildings can vary, but some of the typical pollutants include:

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): These are emitted from various products such as paints, photocopiers, printers, and furniture.
• Particulate Matter (PM): Tiny particles in the air, which can come from sources like outdoor pollution, printers, or HVAC systems.
• Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Elevated levels may indicate poor ventilation and can lead to drowsiness and decreased cognitive function.
• Mold and Mildew: Poor ventilation and moisture can lead to the growth of mold, which can release spores into the air.

Regular monitoring, proper ventilation, air purification, and addressing sources of pollutants are essential for maintaining good indoor air quality in commercial buildings.

Understanding Air Purification Terminology

When discussing IAQ and air purification, there are a few key terms that are important to understand.

1. PM10 (Particulate Matter 10):
   • Definition: PM10 refers to inhalable particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or smaller. These particles can include dust, pollen, mold spores, and larger particles from combustion processes.
   • Significance: Monitoring PM10 levels is important for assessing the overall air quality, as larger particles can have health implications when inhaled.

2. PM2.5 (Particulate Matter 2.5):

   • Definition: PM2.5 represents fine inhalable particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller. These particles are smaller than PM10 and can not be seen without magnification.
   • Significance: PM2.5 is a more critical measure for indoor air quality, as these smaller particles can penetrate deeper into the respiratory system and have more severe health effects.

3. ACH (Air Changes Per Hour):

   • Definition: ACH is a metric used to quantify the rate at which the air within a space is replaced by fresh air. It represents how many times the air in a room is passed through a purification system within an hour.
   • Significance: A higher ACH is generally associated with better indoor air quality as it helps remove pollutants. Proper filtration, ventilation, and air exchange are crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

In summary, PM10 and PM2.5 are measures of particulate matter in the air, with PM2.5 focusing on smaller, more harmful particles. ACH is a metric that quantifies how often the air in a space is cleaned, contributing to overall indoor air quality.

Key Factors to Understand When Choosing an Air Purifier

Several factors should be carefully considered when setting up an air purification system for commercial buildings to ensure effective and efficient operation. Here are key considerations:

1. Size of the Space and Air Purifier Capacity:

   • Consideration: The size of the commercial space is crucial in determining the appropriate capacity of the air purifier. Different air purifiers are designed for varying room sizes, and selecting one with a suitable capacity is essential for optimal performance.
   • Action: Measure the square footage of the area and choose an air purifier with a capacity that matches or exceeds the size of the space.

2. Noise Level of Air Purifiers:

   • Consideration: The amount of noise generated by air purifiers can impact the comfort of occupants in commercial spaces. In quiet environments, low-noise or silent air purifiers may be preferred.
   • Action: Look for air purifiers with noise levels specified in decibels (dB). Consider placing units with lower noise levels where noise sensitivity is a concern. Note that some air purifiers include features that use sensors to reduce noise when spaces are occupied.

3. Placement of Air Purifiers:

   • Consideration: Proper placement of air purifiers is essential for uniform air circulation and pollutant removal. High-traffic areas and locations with known pollutant sources should be prioritized.
   • Action: Strategically place air purifiers in areas with the highest occupancy and where pollutants are likely to be concentrated. Consider centralized placement for maximum coverage.

4. Electrical Connections - Hardwired vs. Plug-ins:

   • Consideration: Decide whether the air purifiers will be hardwired into the building's electrical system or use plug-in connections. Hardwired installations may require professional electrical work.
   • Action: Choose the appropriate connection method based on the building's infrastructure and electrical capacity. Consult with electricians to ensure compliance with safety codes.

5. Smart Technology for Monitoring:

   • Consideration: Integration of smart technology allows for real-time monitoring and control of the air purification system. This includes features such as remote monitoring, scheduling, and filter replacement notifications.
   • Action: Choose air purifiers with smart capabilities that align with the building's connectivity infrastructure. This may include LTE-network-enabled devices monitored through a centralized system or mobile applications.

By carefully considering these factors, businesses can tailor their air purification systems to the specific needs of their commercial spaces, providing occupants with a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment. Regular maintenance and monitoring are also critical to ensure the ongoing effectiveness of the air purification system.

Air Purification Technology from Fellowes

Array Series Air Purifiers by Fellowes:

Hillyard proudly distributes the Array product line, an innovative and versatile series of air purifiers manufactured by Fellowes. The Array air purifiers are designed to provide comprehensive air purification solutions for commercial environments.

• Advanced Filtration Technology: Equipped with cutting-edge filtration mechanisms to capture and eliminate a wide range of airborne contaminants, including dust, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
• Sleek and Modern Design: The Array product line boasts a contemporary and aesthetically pleasing design, seamlessly integrating into various commercial environments without compromising on performance.
• Customizable Settings: User-friendly controls and customizable settings enable businesses to tailor the air purification process to their specific needs and preferences.
• Versatility: Suitable for diverse commercial spaces, ensuring effective air purification in offices, conference rooms, lobbies, and more.
• Array ViewPoint Features: The Array product line includes ViewPoint features, offering LTE network connectivity. This allows for real-time monitoring through a cloud-based dashboard, providing users with remote visibility and control over the air purifiers' performance.

AeraMax Pro Series Air Purifiers by Fellowes:

In its commitment to delivering cutting-edge air purification solutions, Hillyard offers the AeraMax Pro product line, a premium series of air purifiers manufactured by Fellowes. AeraMax air purifiers are specifically engineered for exceptional performance in a variety of commercial settings.

• True HEPA Filtration: AeraMax air purifiers are equipped with True HEPA filtration, capable of capturing particles as small as 0.3 microns, including viruses and bacteria, for thorough and effective purification.
• EnvrioSmart™ Sensor Technology: The AeraMax series features intelligent sensors that sound and motion around the purifier. This technology means that AeraMax works hard when it needs to, and shifts to standby when possible, saving energy and extending filter lifespan. When set in Quiet Mode, the purifier will use lower fan speeds if the area is occupied and higher fan speeds when the area is vacant.
• PureView™ Technology: High-grade laser particle counters monitor air quality as it enters and exits the machine. A convenient display on the front of the machine informs occupants of the air quality in real-time.
• Commercial Suitability: Tailored for various commercial settings, including offices, healthcare facilities, and public spaces, ensuring broad applicability for businesses seeking high-quality air purification solutions.

Improve Indoor Air Quality with Hillyard's Expert Guidance

At Hillyard, our team of expert representatives is dedicated to assisting you in selecting the optimal air purification equipment for your facility. We understand the importance of creating a healthy and comfortable indoor environment, and our knowledgeable professionals are here to guide you through the process. To get started, fill out the "I'm Interested" form below. Our representatives will quickly reach out to discuss your specific requirements, assess the unique needs of your facility, and give personalized recommendations. Whether you're considering the Array product line or the AeraMax series, our team is committed to ensuring that you make an informed decision that aligns with the size, layout, and air quality goals of your commercial space. Trust Hillyard to deliver top-notch air purification solutions tailored to your facility's needs.