In the dynamic landscape of commercial spaces, 2024 is set to usher in transformative advancements in Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) monitoring technologies. As businesses increasingly prioritize the well-being of their occupants, the integration of smart sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) will be instrumental in transitioning IAQ systems from simple air quality monitors to integral components of energy management systems. By enabling precise control and monitoring through smart sensors, IoT helps in reducing the overall carbon footprint of buildings, which is essential for the evolution of smart, sustainable cities and homes. Smart Sensors Redefining IAQ Monitoring: In 2024, the advent of cutting-edge smart sensors is at the forefront of IAQ monitoring. These intelligent devices go beyond traditional monitoring methods, offering real-time data on various air quality parameters. From tracking pollutants to monitoring humidity levels, smart sensors provide a comprehensive view of indoor environments, empowering businesses to proactively address potential issues. IoT Integration for Seamless Connectivity: The rise of IoT is seamlessly integrating IAQ monitoring into the broader realm of smart building management. Connected sensors and devices communicate in real-time, enabling a holistic approach to indoor air quality control. This interconnectedness not only facilitates efficient data collection but also allows for automated responses to maintain optimal air quality levels. Comprehensive Solutions for Commercial Spaces: Commercial indoor spaces, ranging from offices to manufacturing facilities, are increasingly adopting comprehensive IAQ monitoring solutions. These solutions offer a multi-faceted approach, encompassing pollutant detection, ventilation control, and personalized insights into efficiency measurements. This year marks a notable shift towards proactive strategies, where businesses leverage advanced technologies to create healthier and more productive environments for their occupants, which, in turn, results in an increase in employee productivity a reduction in sick days and an overarching cost savings associated with their workforce. Real-Time Analytics Driving Informed Decision-Making: The integration of real-time analytics is a game-changer in IAQ monitoring. Businesses can now access immediate insights into air quality trends and anomalies, enabling them to make informed decisions swiftly. This proactive approach not only addresses potential issues promptly but also enhances overall operational efficiency and cost savings. User-Friendly Interfaces for Enhanced Accessibility: As IAQ monitoring becomes more sophisticated, user-friendly interfaces are key to ensuring accessibility for all stakeholders. Intuitive dashboards and mobile applications provide users with easy access to IAQ data, allowing them to monitor and manage air quality parameters effortlessly. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency: In line with broader sustainability trends, IAQ monitoring solutions in 2024 emphasize energy efficiency. Smart sensors and IoT technologies contribute to optimizing HVAC systems, ensuring ventilation and air quality controls can continually be optimized to achieve minimal energy. 2024 is poised to be a pivotal moment in the evolution of IAQ monitoring technologies for commercial spaces. With the integration of smart sensors, IoT connectivity, and a focus on comprehensive solutions, businesses can proactively create healthier and safer indoor environments. As we navigate the future, these technological trends not only enhance the well-being of occupants but also contribute to the broader goals of sustainability and efficiency in commercial spaces, while creating visibility to technological ROI. Stay tuned as we witness the transformative impact of IAQ monitoring technologies in shaping the way we perceive and manage indoor air quality.

Assess Current Energy Usage To start, it’s essential to assess the current energy usage of a commercial building. Conducting an energy audit is a helpful tool for identifying areas of improvement. An energy audit can help determine how much energy the building consumes, where energy is wasted, and what can be done to reduce energy usage. Another way to assess energy usage is to analyze utility bills. Tracking energy consumption and cost can help identify patterns and provide insight into where energy is used most. Additionally, by monitoring utility bills over time, you can track the effectiveness of energy-saving measures implemented in the building. Finally, determining the building’s Energy Star rating can help gauge its energy efficiency compared to similar buildings in the same climate zone. Energy Star is a program developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that provides a rating system for buildings based on their energy performance. By conducting an energy audit, analyzing utility bills, and determining the building’s Energy Star rating, you can identify the most significant areas for improvement and develop a plan to increase energy efficiency. Lighting Lighting is one of the most significant contributors to energy consumption in commercial buildings. To reduce energy usage, you can implement the following energy-efficient lighting strategies: Switch to LED lighting: LED lights are up to 80% more efficient than traditional incandescent lights and can last up to 25 times longer. While the upfront cost of LED lights may be higher, they are a long-term investment that can significantly reduce energy usage and maintenance costs. Install occupancy sensors: Occupancy sensors can turn off lights when no one is in the room, reducing energy usage and extending the life of the light bulbs. This technology is especially useful in frequently unoccupied areas, such as conference rooms or restrooms. Utilize natural light: Maximizing natural light can reduce the need for artificial lighting and decrease energy consumption. You can install skylights or windows in areas with little natural light or use daylighting sensors to adjust artificial lighting levels based on the amount of natural light available. In addition to reducing energy usage, implementing energy-efficient lighting strategies can also improve the lighting quality in the building and create a more comfortable work environment for employees. By implementing these lighting strategies, you can significantly reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings and improve their overall energy efficiency. HVAC System The HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system is another significant contributor to energy consumption in commercial buildings. To increase energy efficiency, you can implement the following HVAC strategies: Conduct regular maintenance and tune-ups: Regular maintenance and tune-ups can improve the performance and efficiency of the HVAC system. This includes changing air filters, checking refrigerant levels, cleaning coils, and inspecting ductwork. Replace filters regularly: Clogged air filters can restrict airflow and cause the HVAC system to work harder, consuming more energy. It’s essential to replace filters regularly to maintain the system’s efficiency. Upgrade to more energy-efficient equipment: Upgrading to more energy-efficient HVAC equipment can significantly reduce energy consumption. Consider replacing standard HVAC filters with Blades’ Pro Filter Series that lower energy consumption by up to 75%, last up to 2x longer and are made of 70% sustainable material. Get a free consultation for a custom indoor air quality solution. In addition to these strategies, you can also implement building automation systems that can control the HVAC system based on occupancy, temperature, and humidity levels. These systems can optimize the HVAC system’s performance and reduce energy consumption. By implementing these HVAC strategies, you can significantly reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings and improve their overall energy efficiency. Insulation and Weatherization Insulation and sealing are essential components of a commercial building’s energy efficiency. Proper insulation and sealing can prevent air leaks, reduce energy consumption, and improve indoor air quality. To improve insulation and sealing, you can implement the following strategies: Seal air leaks: Air leaks can allow conditioned air to escape and outdoor air to enter the building, causing the HVAC system to work harder and consume more energy. Sealing air leaks can prevent this energy loss and improve indoor air quality. Common areas to seal include windows, doors, and ductwork. Improve insulation: Proper insulation can prevent heat transfer and reduce energy consumption. Areas to insulate include walls, floors, and attics. Choosing the right type of insulation and installing it correctly is essential to ensure maximum efficiency. Upgrade windows: Single-pane windows can be a significant source of energy loss. Upgrading to double-pane or triple-pane windows can significantly improve energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption. Additionally, installing low-emissivity window coatings can minimize heat transfer and enhance comfort. By implementing these insulation and sealing strategies, you can significantly reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings and improve their overall energy efficiency. Renewable Energy Renewable energy sources can provide clean and sustainable energy to commercial buildings, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and decreasing energy costs. To incorporate renewable energy sources, you can implement the following strategies: Install solar panels: Solar panels can convert sunlight into electricity and provide a renewable energy source for the building. By installing solar panels, you can significantly reduce energy consumption and costs. Utilize wind power: If the building is located in an area with consistent wind, wind turbines can be installed to generate electricity. However, wind turbines can be costly and require significant space. Incorporate geothermal systems: Geothermal systems utilize the Earth’s natural heat to regulate temperature and provide energy. These systems can be costly to install, but they offer long-term savings and environmental benefits. By incorporating renewable energy sources, you can significantly reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings and improve their overall energy efficiency. Additionally, utilizing renewable energy sources can decrease reliance on traditional energy sources, promote sustainability, and reduce carbon emissions. While implementing energy-efficient strategies can significantly reduce energy consumption in a commercial building, employee behaviour can also impact energy usage. To encourage energy-efficient behaviour and promote employee engagement, you can implement the following strategies: Educate employees on energy-saving practices: Educating employees on energy-saving practices can increase awareness and promote energy-efficient behaviour. This can include training on energy-efficient equipment usage, encouraging employees to turn off equipment when not used, and promoting paperless practices. Encourage employee participation in energy-saving initiatives: Encouraging employee participation in energy-saving initiatives can promote engagement and foster a culture of sustainability. This can include implementing energy-saving challenges or contests, recognizing and rewarding employees who promote energy-efficient behaviour, and involving employees in energy-saving decision-making processes. Monitor and track energy usage: Monitoring and tracking energy usage can provide insight into energy consumption patterns and identify areas for improvement. Sharing this information with employees can increase awareness and promote energy-efficient behaviour. By promoting employee awareness and engagement, you can foster a culture of sustainability and encourage energy-efficient behaviour in commercial buildings. This can lead to long-term energy savings and environmental benefits. Financing and Incentives Energy audits and benchmarking can provide valuable insight into a commercial building’s energy consumption patterns and identify areas for improvement. To conduct energy audits and benchmarking, you can implement the following strategies: Conduct regular energy audits: Regular energy audits can identify areas of energy waste and inefficiency, allowing you to implement targeted energy-saving strategies. Audits can include assessing equipment performance, insulation and sealing, lighting, and HVAC systems. Benchmark energy usage: Benchmarking energy usage can provide a baseline for energy consumption and identify areas for improvement. Benchmarking can involve comparing energy usage to similar buildings or industry benchmarks. Implement energy-saving recommendations: Energy-saving recommendations from energy audits and benchmarking can significantly reduce energy consumption and improve energy efficiency. Recommendations can include equipment upgrades, insulation improvements, lighting upgrades, and behaviour change strategies. By conducting regular energy audits and benchmarking, you can identify opportunities for energy savings and continuously improve the commercial building’s energy efficiency.

What is a Green Building? In recent years, there has been a growing global interest in sustainable buildings that minimize their impact on the environment and provide a healthy indoor environment for occupants. A green building is a structure that is designed, constructed, operated, and maintained in an environmentally friendly manner. Green buildings go beyond energy efficiency and resource conservation to encompass indoor environmental quality (IEQ), including indoor air quality (IAQ). Green buildings offer numerous benefits, from environmental and economic to social and health-related. Green buildings can help conserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and save money by reducing energy consumption, water use, and waste production. They also help enhance occupant health, comfort, and productivity, by providing clean air, natural light, and comfortable temperatures. Research shows that green buildings can even increase the value of real estate properties, attract and retain tenants, and contribute to the overall well-being of communities. Benefits of Green Buildings Green buildings help reduce carbon, water, energy and waste. For example, the Department of Energy reviewed 22 LEED-certified buildings managed by the General Services Administration and saw that CO2 emissions were 34% lower, they consumed 25% less energy and 11% less water and diverted more than 80 million tons of waste from landfills. According to the EPA, heating and cooling account for about 43% of all energy use in the country, contributing to air pollution and generating the most considerable amounts of greenhouse gases. Green buildings also help reduce indoor air pollutants related to severe health issues by improving energy efficiency. A 2018 National Institute of Building Sciences (NBIS) study found that each $1 spent on mitigation activities – such as strengthening buildings and improving drainage conditions – saves $6 in response and recovery costs. Green buildings positively affect public health. Improving indoor air quality can reduce absenteeism and work hours affected by asthma, respiratory allergies, depression and stress and self-reported improvements in productivity. USGBC’s research reinforces that employees in LEED green buildings feel happier, healthier and more productive. Buildings account for 12% of the total water consumed in the U.S., while the average person uses 80-100 gallons of water per day. Water-efficiency efforts in green buildings help reduce water use, promote rainwater capture, and use non-potable sources. Key Elements of Green Buildings The key elements of green buildings are sustainable features and practices that contribute to energy efficiency, water efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Some of the key elements of green buildings include: Energy Efficiency Designing and constructing buildings that reduce energy consumption and minimize waste. Energy-efficient lighting, heating and cooling systems, energy-efficient appliances, and equipment can significantly reduce energy costs and contribute to a lower carbon footprint. Water Efficiency Designing and constructing buildings that reduce water consumption and minimize waste. Low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, and greywater recycling systems can help conserve water resources and reduce water bills. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Designing and constructing buildings that provide clean air, natural light, and comfortable temperatures. By using high-quality building materials, insulation, and ventilation systems, green buildings can sustainably improve IAQ. Sustainable Materials This involves using sustainable and environmentally friendly building materials, such as recycled materials, sustainable wood, and low-emitting materials. By using these materials, green buildings can reduce waste and minimize their environmental impact. Renewable Energy This involves incorporating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, to generate clean and renewable energy. Renewable energy can help reduce the carbon footprint of buildings and contribute to a more sustainable future. Site Selection & Land Use This involves selecting sites that are accessible by public transportation, walkable, and have minimal impact on the environment. Green buildings can also incorporate physical features such as green roofs and rain gardens to minimize their impact on the surrounding environment. Indoor Air Quality Is a Key Component of Green Buildings Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a crucial element of green buildings, as it directly impacts the health and comfort of building occupants. IAQ refers to the quality of the air inside a building and is affected by various factors, including building materials, ventilation systems, and outdoor air pollution. Poor IAQ can result in health issues, such as allergies, asthma, and respiratory infections, and can negatively impact productivity and overall well-being. Proper ventilation can help remove pollutants and improve IAQ. Ventilation systems can include air filtration systems that remove contaminants like dust, pollen, and mould spores. HVAC systems are crucial in maintaining a healthy and sustainable indoor environment. Proper design, installation, and maintenance of HVAC systems in green buildings are essential to achieving sustainability goals. In addition, high-efficiency HVAC equipment, such as variable-speed motors, can significantly reduce energy consumption and operating costs. High-quality HVAC filters can help lower your building’s energy consumption while improving indoor air quality. A great example is the Blade Air – Pro Filter Series. The electrostatic polarized technology is proven to: Improve indoor air quality by 2.25x and captures particles 40x smaller than standard filters. 2x longer-lasting filter replacement. Generate zero Ozone. 75% reduction in supply fan motor consumption The benefits of good IAQ are significant, including improved health, increased productivity, and reduced absenteeism. Studies have shown that good IAQ can lead to a 35% increase in worker productivity. In addition, by prioritizing IAQ in building design and construction, green buildings can provide healthier and more comfortable living and working environments.

By now, we’ve understood the many adverse health effects of indoor air pollution. However, oftentimes we fail to recognize how poor air quality affects our furry friends – indoors and in the wild. Continuous and prolonged exposure to poor air quality can give rise to various lung, throat and nose diseases in your pets, such as bronchitis or asthma. With hypersensitivity to odours, it’s no surprise to discover that animals are just as vulnerable to indoor pollutants as we are. One study carried out by researchers in Mexico City found that dogs exposed to pollution experienced the same inflammation in the brain associated with the first signs of Alzheimer’s. In another study, cats were found to have dangerously high levels of flame-retardant chemicals in their system. This could be explained as cats can ingest higher levels of household dust than we do, and dust from soft furnishings has very high concentrations of flame-retardant chemicals. The Effects of Poor Air Quality on Animals Animals are exposed to the same air pollutants as humans and can suffer the same health effects. Air pollutants can poison wildlife through the disruption of endocrine function, organ injury, increased vulnerability to stresses and diseases, lower reproductive success, and possible death. Animals in the wild are particularly vulnerable to air pollution because they often live in close proximity to sources of air pollution, such as factories, power plants, and vehicles. This means they are exposed to greater levels of air pollutants than humans. Additionally, animals often have a more limited ability to escape from polluted areas, making them more susceptible to the effects of air pollution. Animals can be exposed to air pollutants in a variety of ways. Inhaling polluted air is the most common way, but animals can also be exposed to air pollutants through their skin and fur, as well as through their food and water. Air pollutants can also be absorbed into the bodies of animals through their digestive systems. The effects of air pollution on animals can be severe; respiratory and cardiovascular diseases are common in animals exposed to air pollution and can cause difficulty breathing, coughing, and other respiratory symptoms. Animals can also suffer from reproductive problems, such as decreased fertility and an increased risk of birth defects. Air pollutants can damage the lungs and other organs, leading to organ failure and death. Air pollutants can cause changes in animal behaviour, such as increased aggression or decreased activity. Air pollutants can also cause environmental changes, such as increased levels of ozone or reduced levels of oxygen, which can have a negative effect on animals, as they can make it more difficult for them to find food or shelter. Studies show that domesticated ‘indoor’ animals have an increased risk of tumours when exposed to polluted air over an extended period of time. Research shows that pets living in homes with cigarette smokers have increased health risks, perhaps even more significant than those for humans living in the same homes. This is because pets spend more time near the floor, where smoke concentrations are higher. In addition, cats exposed to secondhand smoke have been shown to have reduced lung function when compared to felines living in smoke-free homes. Symptoms of Poor Air Quality in Pets Similar to us humans, animals are also susceptible to the symptoms that are commonly associated with poor indoor air quality. Some symptoms of poor air quality experienced by pets include: Laboured and/or open-mouthed breathing Vomiting and/or loss of appetite Unusual or excessive coughing or sneezing Swelling or inflammation of the eyes, mouth, and/or skin Any discharge from the eyes and/or nose Weakness/lethargy Uncoordinated walking or inability to stand Increased salivation How to Protect Your Pets From Air Pollution Because pets spend most of their time indoors, pet owners need to understand the importance of good air quality for themselves and their pets. Creating a healthy air environment is essential for the health of all indoor inhabitants. Here are some simple steps you can take to ensure the air indoors is safe: Change air filters often Vacuum frequently to remove hair and other pollutants Avoid smoking indoors Choose chemical-free cleaning products when possible Reduce carbon emissions by carpooling, taking a bus, or biking Choose areas for outdoor exercise for pets where the air is cleaner (away from highways) Try using chemical-free products in the yard

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) is a rating system that measures the effectiveness of air filters in capturing particles of different sizes. The MERV rating scale ranges from 1 to 20, with higher numbers indicating greater efficiency in capturing smaller particles. In this blog post, we will compare two standard MERV ratings for air filters: MERV 8 vs MERV 11. We will discuss the pros and cons of each type, their particle capture capabilities, air flow rates, pressure drops, and costs, as well as provide guidance on choosing between the two. What is MERV 8? MERV 8 filters can capture particles that are 3 to 10 microns in size, such as Pollen Dust mites Pet dander They are less expensive and allow for higher airflow rates than higher MERV-rated filters, making them a good choice for systems with high airflow needs. However, MERV 8 filters may not capture smaller particles that can cause respiratory problems, such as mould spores and bacteria. They must also be changed more frequently than higher-rated filters to maintain effectiveness. What is MERV 11? MERV 11 filters can capture particles that are 1 to 3 microns in size, such as: Pollen Dust mites Mould Large dust particles Auto emissions Fine air particles Pet dander Lint Smoke Smog Bacteria MERV 11 filters offer better filtration than MERV 8 filters and can help improve indoor air quality for people with allergies or respiratory problems. However, they are also more expensive and can restrict airflow more than MERV 8 filters. When the airflow is restricted, it can lead to discomfort, higher energy consumption, and faster wear and tear of HVAC equipment. Using an air filter with a MERV rating that exceeds your system’s recommended level can be particularly damaging, causing harm to the compressor, heat exchanger, and air conditioner coil. Comparison of MERV 8 and MERV 11 When comparing MERV 8 and MERV 11 filters, it is important to consider their particle capture capabilities, air flow rates, pressure drops, and costs. Particle capture capabilities: MERV 11 filters more effectively capture smaller particles than MERV 8 filters. This means they can help improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of respiratory problems. However, MERV 8 filters may be sufficient for capturing larger particles like pollen and dust, which can also contribute to indoor air pollution. Air flow rates: MERV 8 filters allow for higher airflow rates than MERV 11 filters. This means they may be a better choice for standard HVAC systems with high airflow needs, such as commercial buildings that don’t require superior air filtration. MERV 11 filters can restrict airflow more than MERV 8 filters, which can cause strain on HVAC systems and potentially increase energy costs. Pressure drops: MERV 11 filters can cause higher pressure drops than MERV 8 filters, further straining HVAC systems and reducing energy efficiency. Choosing the right filter for the specific system is essential to avoid this issue. Costs: MERV 11 filters are generally more expensive than MERV 8 filters, which can be a factor for those on a tight budget. Additionally, MERV 11-rated filters get clogged much more quickly than a MERV 8 filter and have to be replaced frequently. How to Choose Between MERV 8 and MERV 11? When choosing between MERV 8 and MERV 11 filters, it is crucial to consider the HVAC system’s and its occupants’ specific needs. Here are some factors to consider: Types of particles present: If your system needs to capture smaller particles like mould spores or bacteria, a MERV 11 filter may be more appropriate. If it only needs to capture larger particles like pollen and dust, a MERV 8 filter may suffice. Air flow rate required: If your system requires high air flow rates, a MERV 8 filter may be a better choice. However, if indoor air quality is a higher priority and airflow rates can be sacrificed, a MERV 11 filter may be a better choice. Budget available: A MERV 8 filter may be more cost-effective if the budget is a concern. However, if indoor air quality is a higher priority and a higher initial cost can be justified, a MERV 11 filter may be a better choice in the long run. Occupant health concerns: If occupants have allergies or respiratory problems, a MERV 11 filter may be more appropriate to help improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of health issues. However, if no health concerns are present and your system only needs to capture larger particles, a MERV 8 filter may be sufficient. In summary, MERV 8 and MERV 11 filters both have their advantages and disadvantages and choosing between them depends on your HVAC system’s specific needs and occupants. While MERV 11 filters offer better particle capture capabilities and improved indoor air quality, they also come with higher costs and potential airflow restrictions. On the other hand, MERV 8 filters allow for higher air flow rates and are more cost-effective but may not capture smaller particles that can cause health problems. It is important to weigh these factors carefully and consult a professional to determine the best filter for your system.

Can you have allergies in the winter? Simply put, yes. Allergies are a common reason why people develop runny noses and itchy eyes during the colder months. But allergies can often be confused with common cold viruses. It’s important to differentiate between these ailments, as winter allergies last longer than colds and must be managed by removing the cause of allergens. Indoor air is often two to five times more polluted than outdoor air and can be riddled with allergens like smoke, dust, pet dander, and mould. Indoor allergens can make anyone feel sick and even worsen the symptoms of existing respiratory conditions like asthma. During the cold months, we spend more time indoors, with little to no natural ventilation, increasing our exposure to indoor allergens. Causes of Winter Allergies Some common indoor allergens that can trigger your winter allergies include: The best way to relieve allergy symptoms is to take preventive measures, and it’s good to know that you can still get relief for your allergy symptoms even if they are already at their worst. Allergy Symptoms Sneezing Stuffy/Runny Nose Itchy Eyes Throat Itching Ear Itching Difficulty Breathing, Especially Through A Clogged Nose Dry Coughing, Sometimes Producing Phlegm Skin Rash Feeling Sick Low-Grade Fever In severe cases, allergies can result in symptoms related to asthma, such as: Chest Tightness Wheezing Or Whistling When You Breathe Breathing Rapidly Feeling Exhausted Feeling Anxious Cold Symptoms Unlike allergy symptoms, a common cold comes from a virus spread by someone infected. As a result, signs of a cold end once your body fights off the infection, whereas allergy symptoms reoccur whenever you are exposed to the allergens. Symptoms of a cold include: Sneezing Stuffy Nose Runny Nose Sore Throat Coughing Watery eyes Fever (although most people with colds do not have fever) Some symptoms, especially runny or stuffy nose and cough, can last up to 10 to 14 days. Prevention There are three ways you can enhance indoor air quality and as a result, improve symptoms associated with winter allergies: 1. Control your contact with indoor airborne allergens by: Regularly wash bedding, upholstery and carpets. Minimize cleaning products with VOCs. Turning on kitchen and washroom exhaust fans. Regularly replacing HVAC filters. 2. Ventilate your indoor areas well. Make sure the stale air in your place is continuously being replaced with fresh air through mechanical or natural ventilation. 3. Use air cleaners to clean indoor air. HEPA air purifiers are a great way to improve indoor air quality. HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) air purifiers force air through a fine mesh that traps harmful particles such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and tobacco smoke.

The importance of indoor air quality and the benefits of maintaining a clean air environment has become a major concern for indoor spaces. These benefits range from our mental and physical health improvements to better HVAC system efficiency and lower electricity costs. As a result, many large, public indoor spaces like offices, schools, buildings, and medical centers that we visit daily are required to pay greater attention to air quality for the safety of everyone. But often, finding the right indoor air quality solution that is both economically sound and effective can seem daunting and overwhelming. With so many different types of HVAC filters and so much information to digest, how do you know the best choice? If you want to save money and time while enhancing your air quality, electrostatic HVAC filters may be an excellent solution for your facility. In this blog, we will be going over the different types of electrostatic air cleaning filters, which one is most effective and how they differ from the industry standard filters. What is an Electrostatic Air Filter? An electrostatic filter is a form of air purifying technology commonly used in larger indoor spaces – specifically for commercial or industrial purposes. These units can be used in portable air cleaning devices or installed in the ductwork of HVAC systems. The main idea of electrostatic filters is to utilize static electricity to attract and trap particles on the charged fibres and carbon paths. So instead of getting pulled through and being blocked by filter material like standard filters, the particles are attracted to the filter media. Types of Electrostatic Filters You will encounter two standard electrostatic technologies when searching the different types of electrostatic filters. In this article, we will be comparing the two: Electrostatic Ionized Technology Electrostatic Polarized Technology Let’s look at the two technologies in a little more detail. Electrostatic Ionized Technology Ionic electrostatic filters give a charge to airborne particles passing through the filter. The electrical charge allows the particles to be pulled and entrapped by plates (precipitators) of the opposite charge. Are Electrostatic Ionized Filters Effective? Electrostatic ionizing filters effectively remove large particles, such as dust and pollen, from the air but cannot filter the air of all particles at the same level of efficiency. The filter’s efficiency depends on the contaminant’s size; smaller particles in the mid-range within 0.1 to 1 micrometres are not charged as effectively and, as a result, are not collected thoroughly on the plates. The Effect of Ionization on Health One of the most significant issues with electrostatic precipitators is the potential creation of ozone as a byproduct. If breathed in at ground level, ozone is proven to be hazardous to one’s health. There is a potential risk of experiencing: Decreases in lung function Aggravation of asthma Throat irritation and cough Chest pain and shortness of breath Inflammation of lung tissue Higher susceptibility to respiratory infection Electrostatic Polarized Technology Unlike Ionizing technology, polarized particles are referred to as bi-polar, meaning that each molecule has a positive charge at one end and a negative charge at the other. Let’s take the example of a magnet; polarized technology works similarly to how magnets’ positive and negative sides attract each other. Electrostatic polarized filters combine three major scientific principles to filter air and trap unwanted particulates. Steps of the Filtration Process Impingement – Commonly referred to as a pre-filter, the impingement process traps dust by using the media placed in the path of oncoming airborne particles to stop it. Polarization is the process of inducing an electrostatic charge to any particulates that pass through the air cleaner. This allows pathogens to be easily removed from the air with oppositely charged fibre media that act like magnets. Agglomeration is an advanced stage of polarization. The already charged polarized particles attach with other polarized particles as they collide in the air – this is called a “polarized field.” This field binds the submicron particles that standard filters otherwise let pass, deactivates the viruses/bacteria, and traps them in the filter, allowing the air cleaner to capture even the smallest particles. Why Are Polarized Electrostatic Filters More Effective? Unlike the more common ionizing technology found in most electrostatic air filters, polarized-media air cleaners do an exceptional job of removing sub-micron (<1 micron in size) particles without the efficiency loss associated with precipitating electronic air cleaners. In addition, as each particle attaches itself to the fibre strands it, in turn, becomes part of the collection process, thereby increasing the effectiveness of the filter as it loads. Polarized media also produces no ozone – making the filter better in performance and for human health. To summarize, here is a table demonstrating the difference between the two types of electrostatic filters just discussed. Traditional Filters (MERV) Until now, we have established that electrostatic polarizing technology is far more effective than electrostatic ionizing technology in indoor settings. But how exactly does it compare to the regular standard filters – that we find in most HVAC systems today? All traditional air filters are differentiated according to their MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating, which denotes their efficiency. The higher a filter’s MERV rating, the more effective it is at capturing airborne particles. MERV 13 and below are considered to be HVAC-system-grade filters for residential, commercial and general hospital use. MERV 13 filters are able to filter particles closer to the 0.3 microns size, which includes contaminants such as: Pollen Mould Dust Dust Mites Bacteria Pet Dander Smoke Virus carriers Exhaust fumes Electrostatic Filters vs Standard Filters When comparing electrostatic polarized filters, specifically the Blade Electrostatic Polarized Filter, to MERV 13 and MERV 8 filters, we see the Blade Electrostic Polarized Filter has greater filtration performance, filtering at 0.007 microns and maintaining a lower pressure drop. Pressure drop refers to the amount of electricity it takes to push the air through a filter. A low-pressure drop rating means pushing the air through the filter takes less power. Learn about other Types of HVAC Filters and how they compare to electrostatic filters. Blade’s Electrostatic Polarized Filters The Blade Electrostatic Polarized filter provides HEPA-Class and MERV-rated filtration while lowering your building’s energy consumption and maintenance time. Our electrostatic filters are the best option in HVAC systems and facilities where enhanced air quality is required, but a HEPA filter is not practical. Blade electrostatic polarized filters remove micro-particulates 40x smaller than traditional HVAC filters, enhancing your indoor air quality. Blade’s electrostatic polarized filters remove harmful particulates, even as small as 0.007 micrometres, that traditional filters do not, making them the ideal filtration solution. Utilizing active polarization fields binds the tiny submicron particles together that standard filters and electrostatic ionic filters let pass. When compared to traditional standard filters, Blade is proven to provide enhanced air quality and longer-lasting filters and lowers your energy consumption. In addition, the filter’s innovative design uses low-density media, reducing the strain on your HVAC system compared to traditional filters and high-efficiency systems.