There is an ongoing emphasis on energy savings, both for the purpose of achieving sustainable design targets for LEED or Net Zero certifications, and also for the very practical reason that it saves money, possibly a lot of money. Energy cost savings has prompted a lot of building operators to reduce the amount of intake air brought into a space. Fresh air creates an energy demand on the HVAC system because it needs to work to bring that outside air to the thermostat temperature within the building.
The problem is, without adequate dilution ventilation (not enough fresh air is taken into the building), the CO2 levels, pollutants, and odors buildup and the contaminated air containing these undesirable elements is, unfortunately, recirculated. When these conditions persist, mold and mildew can accumulate in moist spaces, offensive odors linger, ooccupants may complain of drowsiness, tiredness, eye and throat irritation, stale air, stuffiness, and in extreme cases high C02 levels can impact the nervous system
HVLS Fans Provide an Excellent Ventilation Solution
Increasing fresh outdoor air intake does not have to create an inefficient demand on the HVAC system. HVLS fans will thermally equalize a space, reducing demand on the HVAC system while actually helping the system maintain its set point. Meanwhile, the space is being diluted and refreshed as enough outside air is once again allowed to pass through the air supply and exhaust system.
How Ventilation Impacts Safety
Let’s look at a facility problem called Sweating Slab Syndrome. This safety risk is prevalent in environments with high humidity and poor ventilation. If water condenses on a concrete floor – because the floor is cold and the air is humid – a very hazardous situation has been created, one that may not be readily visible. A wet floor can be very slippery and dangerous to anyone who might try to walk across it. It’s also a condition that is extremely dangerous for forklifts when they brake and skid, perhaps injuring people and damaging equipment.
Warm air has a great capacity to hold moisture. That’s why muggy humid days are also warmer days. Inside a warehouse, humidity will condense on any surface that is at or below the dew point. Because concrete floors usually have much cooler temperatures than the ambient air, they are particularly susceptible to condensation and the Sweating Slab Syndrome phenomenon.
HVLS Fans Support Safety
HVLS fans provide a solution for condensation. They homogenize air which means that the water vapor in the air is equally dispersed. This minimizes moisture deposits because, so to speak, all the atoms are marching to the same tune.
The Bottom Line
With HVLS fans, you can bring adequate fresh air into your facility and keep your energy consumption low. The airflow created by the fans creates a more comfortable environment which enables you to run your heater and/or air conditioner less, thereby saving energy. Enjoy the health and safety benefits that come with increased building ventilation.
View our MacroAir products here: www.fclift.com/product_category/hvls-fans/
Source: www.macroairfans.com