India is in a dual battle with novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and the scorching summer heat in many parts of the country. At this time, we need the comfort of ACs chillness but, with COVID-19 controlling our lives and with proven/ unproven facts floating around, the spread of the pandemic through the AC has stopped us from switching the AC on. Hence, in this article before sharing the do’s and don’ts, let’s check some basics that are ideal for an AC during this point of the pandemic.
Are ultraviolet (UV) lights installed in your Split AC?
In case you're unaware of it - UV light may be a supplementary system for AC units that help to destroy harmful microorganisms, mold, and other pathogens to take care of higher indoor air quality. The UV lights and UV lamps installed into the heating and air system when in its wavelength & energy breaks down the DNA of harmful viruses and bacteria, which then leads to safe and pathogens free circulation of air indoors.
These UV lights destroy microbes in two alternative ways in Air Conditioner:
Coil Sterilization: UV-C lamps are installed to focus on sensitive and problem-prone components like cooling coils, condensation pans, and filters. This enables targeting of microbial growth in tougher-to-reach areas like grooves, fins, seams and edges.
The stick-shaped indoor coils are used because it condenses moisture from the air to dehumidify the house and as mostly for central air-conditioning. This helps in any dirt, pet dander etc. to simply continue its wet surface and reciprocally for pure air to circulate within the room.
Air Sterilization: Air sterilization is additionally called an In-Duct UVC system, and with this method, the UV-C light disinfects the air because it cycles through the return ducts in the AC unit. By enhancing the reflective surface within that section of the duct work, the UV-C light is maximized altogether, making it more efficient.
Apart from installing the UV lights in AC, there are other guidelines around the speculation around whether ACs should be turned on or off in both homes and public places. These are issued by the centre and brought together by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and cooling system Engineers (ISHRAE) and therefore the Refrigeration, and cooling system Manufacturers Association (AIACRA).
Measures to be taken for home ACs-
- Temperature settings
As per the advisory, the perfect temperature of a cooling should be anywhere between 24-30 degrees Celsius, i.e. 24 for humid climate and 30 for dry. The humidity should be anywhere from 40 to 70 per cent, and as most leeway ACs are designed to stay at these levels, so be wary of the climatic condition, i.e. for dry climates’ humidity set it at higher side.
- Ventilation
People should also make sure that the rooms are well-ventilated. For this, keep the windows slightly open or turn on the fan to produce better ventilation, when AC is not used.
- Cleaning
During the pandemic, another vital step is to extend the frequency of cleaning the filters of the cooling system.
- Maintain Moisture
At any time if you are feeling the air within the room is very dry, place a bowl of water to take care of the hydration level.
Measures to be taken central air con systems at public places,
Temperature and cleaning guidelines are the same as that of a home. However, certain things that require to be taken care of by default, Central air con systems are mostly installed in places like malls, offices, hospitals etc. in India and these spaces have comparatively more people.
- Maintenance
As per the rules, most commercial establishments have remained closed during the lockdown, before restarting operations, the firms have to get comprehensive maintenance. The coils of the indoor units should even be inspected and cleaned.
- Ventilation
In the case of ventilation, the highly recommended option is from the outdoor air. But, if outdoor ventilation isn't possible, then there should be enough fans within the space to make sure increased air movement. Another approved alternative is to own an air purifier in place.
They also advise the general public to have the exhaust fans in kitchens and toilets switched on at the least times.
- Non-working hours
During the non-working hours and weekends, AIACRA proposes keeping the air circulation system running in the slightest degree of time without cooling.
So, follow the above suggestions to stay safe in your home and office.
On the other hand if you are looking for a replacement or buying a new model you could visit James & Co online. We have several new model air conditioner collections in all brands for a cheaper price and amazing offers/ discounts.