Breaking the myths on IAQ

Every industry has its own facts and fiction, so we’ve decided to the break the myths in our own. What is true and what is false, when it comes to Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)?

 1. You’re safer indoors compared to outdoors.

• This is not necessarily true. There are many things that contribute to indoor air pollution, including dust, electronical appliances – refrigerators, cleaning agents and air fresheners. Also, because buildings are enclosed, this prevents outside air from flowing, contributing to an even worse atmosphere. Ultimately, without proper filtration, indoor air is similar to outdoor air.

2. It’s too difficult to monitor IAQ.

• Back in the day, the answer to this question would have been very different. But these days, it’s easier than ever to monitor Indoor Air Quality. A flooding market of air quality monitors mean there is a range to choose from, including WiFi enabled that connect to your smartphone. They provide information including current quality levels, safety hazard warnings and more.

3. Humidifying is always a good thing.

• The root cause of low levels of humidity is usually leakage from indoor air to the outside. The increase of humidity in the air for an enclosed space could cause problems. Once raised above 40%, there is a high chance of mould, fungi, bacteria and other microbes being formed.

4. New buildings are not affected by IAQ.

• This is far from truth. In fact, in many cases, new buildings can be considerably more susceptible to IAQ compared to older buildings. This is because of various reasons including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from paint fumes, formaldehydes from treated wood, new carpets and more. Also, new building designs result in more airtight spaces, resulting in impeded airflow. New dwellings tend to have superior ventilation compared to older buildings, but this could just be bringing in dirty air, depending on the location.

5. Improving IAQ requires a lot of time, effort and money.

• Improving IAQ can start by making small changes to lifestyle and the products you use. Also, HVAC systems don’t necessarily have to replace your existing system – there are systems that can be added in addition, saving time and money. Both professional installation and regular maintenance are crucial to the effectiveness of better air quality.

Now these myths have been broken, is there a solution to any or all of these common misconceptions?

The answer is The Ingenious Air® Small Duct System. An intelligent climate control system that has an optional high specification air purification module. It removes VOCs and other harmful pollutants that are naked to the eye. It also removes disease-causing viruses and bacteria, allergens, dust and odours.

Additionally, the system can add up to 100% outside air ventilation with heat recovery ventilation. This can further improve air quality and save energy. At the same time, it provides a safe and comfortable indoor environment with clean, purified air.

Backed by years of experience, research and development, various case studies and installed in trusted brands such as Apple, Subway, Pandora and more, this genuine system is certainly not a myth. In fact, we like to think it’s more of a legend.

 Proud Green Building, P.G.B. (2018). Fact or Fiction? Examining 10 IAQ Myths. Retrieved 5 April, 2018.