As our society adapts with a global pandemic, many churches, businesses, restaurants and retail stores are attempting to make it safe for people to return. We’re going out of our way now to understand how to live while remaining socially distanced.
One of the key points of focus for returning to “normal life” in some way has been with returning to places of worship.
Most churches are not naturally suited to prevent the spread of a virus, but can evolve to be able to be safer. One way a church can make a big step to do that, besides keeping people socially distanced and providing cleaning supplies, is by updating the air quality with a better filtration system. Another way is to upgrade the HVAC system in the facility, as more modern varieties include enhanced air quality features.
Viruses, bacteria, allergens, dust motes, gasses and other contaminants can circulate inside, creating breathing hazards and bad odors. The most well-insulated facilities, unfortunately, tend to trap odors, pollen and other contaminants within their airtight walls due to a lack of airflow most commonly found in older homes.
Air filters capture and remove contaminants that trigger allergy and asthma symptoms, spread illness and impact air quality.
There are several types of common filters.
- HEPA filters—remove 99.97 percent of pollution; often seen in hospitals.
- Media air cleaners—up to 40 times more efficient than a standard air filter.
- Electronic air cleaners—uses electrically charged, washable filters to lower pollutants.
- Standard air filters.
A more enhanced option would be UV Light Systems. These systems give off high-intensity UV rays to eliminate bacteria, mold and viruses. The light can clean your home’s air, ductwork and heating/cooling equipment. And shrink the concentration of airborne microorganisms by 50 percent within as little as 45 minutes.
