HVAC INFORMATION REGARDING MOLD AND MILDEW

Air conditioning systems which are initially free from mold and mildew can develop chronic air quality problems with improper and inadequate maintenance procedures.  Owners and Tenants responsible for HVAC maintenance should insure that mold and mildew concerns are properly addressed by their maintenance program.

Although much has been published regarding HVAC criteria and indoor air quality, there are currently no Code provisions related to humidity specifically for the prevention of mold and mildew.

Air conditioning systems improve human comfort by reducing temperature and humidity.  However, most ordinary air conditioning systems are controlled only by thermostats  . . . and thermostats control only temperature.  They do NOT directly control humidity.

While air conditioning tonnage selection takes humidity into account, it is usually a secondary factor.  The Engineer’s ability to select air conditioning equipment to satisfy both temperature and humidity criteria under all possible combinations of occupancy and cooling load is virtually impossible with most ordinary air conditioning equipment.  Practical limitations on zoning control also contribute to humidity variations. 

Special HVAC equipment is available which can directly control both temperature and humidity.  However, such systems have higher initial costs and greater operating costs.  If you feel your facilities require such control, or if you wish further guidance, contact your Engineer . . . . .  or call CASCO.   

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