Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems for healthcare facilities are considerably different than their residential or commercial counterparts. In this blog, McMaster discusses important considerations to keep in mind when selecting HVAC systems for healthcare facilities.
Thermal Conditions
Healthcare facilities have numerous areas that require temperatures which are outside the usual range for typical buildings. For example, certain rooms may have occupants who aren’t comfortable with low temperatures, while others may require refrigeration-level temperatures to prevent the spread of bacteria. The ideal HVAC system should be fully controllable for every room, and this requirement must be taken into consideration when choosing the right type of thermostat.
Reliability
Healthcare facilities need a heating and air conditioning system they can rely on throughout the year. This means the facility needs to have an HVAC system with a robust warranty, a contractor who has a comprehensive maintenance program and a backup system in case the main one requires repairs. Other components such as air ducts should likewise be free from leaks and holes that will disrupt or reduce HVAC output.
Hygiene
The air circulating within the healthcare facility needs to be cleaner than in an average home. Certain areas such as emergency rooms need nearly-sterile air to minimize patient infections and the spread of disease. This means the facility manager has to proactively maintain the HVAC system through the use of HEPA filters and regular inspections. Areas with specific air quality requirements can have an isolated duct network to minimize the mixing in of air from less sterile environments.
Energy Efficiency
Given these considerations, it’s not surprising that these facilities have high energy requirements. Switching to energy-efficient, low-maintenance HVAC system equipment can result in significant energy savings. Be careful not to base your selection solely on cost and/or SEER (or AFUE) ratings, however; the HVAC system also has to be properly sized for the room in which it will be installed.
Call McMaster for All Your HVAC Needs
McMaster is your leading provider of Carrier HVAC systems for home, commercial and healthcare applications. Give us a call at (949) 481-7995 or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Lake Forest and Irvine, CA.
