Investing in advanced air handling is the top priority

Since environmental protection is the number one global problem, man has no choice but to improve air quality and reduce energy consumption. The future of better air quality lies in intelligent, energy-efficient, and adaptive systems that cater to the diverse needs of modern spaces. Air handling technologies optimise air quality, ventilation, temperature, and humidity, which affect occupants’ health and well-being.

“The air we breathe is vital to our health and well-being.” – David Suzuki.

The importance of air quality is paramount. People spend nearly 90 percent of their time indoors at home, in offices, or in public buildings. The air we breathe indoors affects our health and well-being. Innovative air handling technologies are emerging as a critical solution to combat indoor air pollution and create healthier, more comfortable spaces. Moreover, integrating solar energy into AHUs reduces energy consumption and lowers CO₂ emissions, contributing to a healthier future. As we embrace these innovations, we pave the way for improved indoor air quality, health, and comfort.

Indoor air quality is a significant concern. Clean, filtered air is necessary. In offices with fluctuating occupancy, air-handling systems equipped with occupancy sensors adjust the airflow. IoT (Internet of Things) and AI guarantee energy efficiency, making air-handling units a sustainable choice for the future. In a hospital environment, pathogens in the air can affect patient recovery and spread diseases.

Poor air quality can have health implications. Improving indoor air quality and energy efficiency requires a strategic design to meet performance. Innovative technologies ensure that AHUs meet environmental and operational needs. Smart technologies automate temperature control, airflow, and filtration, adjusting performance based on real-time conditions. AHU performance is now an integral part of ensuring healthier indoor environments. It can ensure that the air is fresh, clean, humidified, and free of harmful particles.

AHU performance

Maintaining proper airflow balance is vital in an HVAC system. Air tightness plays a role in achieving this. This  directly impacts airflow, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality. A well-sealed AHU ensures that air flows as intended, free from leakage or contamination, enabling the system to operate at full potential. It provides a steady equilibrium between supply and return airflows, preventing pressure imbalances that could disrupt occupant comfort. Dalip Singh- Sr. Technical Analyst at AHRI, opines, that air tightness is a cornerstone of maintaining good indoor air quality by preventing contamination, stabilising environmental conditions, and ensuring effective air management.

Air pollution

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that approximately 3.2 million premature deaths occur annually due to illnesses linked to household air pollution. This staggering figure highlights the gravity of the situation. Sources of indoor air pollution include particulate matter from cooking fuels, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning agents and building materials, and biological contaminants like mould and pollen. These pollutants lead to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, reduced immune responses, and even developmental issues in children. Dr. Maria Neira, Director of Environment, Climate Change and Health, WHO, remarked that advanced air handling technologies can save millions of lives and improve the quality of life for countless individuals worldwide.

This underscores the importance of lifestyle changes and awareness in combating pollution. Priyanka Singh, Programme Lead at the Council on Energy, Environment and Water, highlights the need for mindfulness in daily activities, such as avoiding coal burning in enclosed spaces, to make healthier choices for individuals and their communities. Raising awareness and encouraging sustainable lifestyle changes are key steps in the fight against pollution. Bridging this gap between technical details and layman’s understanding is essential for creating awareness and encouraging meaningful actions to reduce pollution. Air handling conditions, filter and circulate air to meet the requirements of the space they serve.

Filtration, the line of defence

Indoor air pollution is a growing concern, often exacerbated by inadequate ventilation and inefficient air handling systems. Mohamed Khaled, Qualification and Validation Engineer and Founder of ValiHub, shares his viewpoint: “Carbon filters play a crucial role in improving air quality by trapping harmful pollutants. Filtration acts as our first line of defence, protecting occupants from airborne contaminants.”

Air filters, especially HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, are designed to remove harmful particles from the air, including dust, allergens, mould spores, and bacteria. HEPA filters can capture up to 99.97 percent of particles as small as 0.3 microns, which is crucial for improving indoor air quality.

For example, in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, where patient health is important, high-grade air filters are employed to minimise the risk of airborne infections. Proper air filtration reduces this risk and ensures a safer and healthier indoor environment. In office spaces or schools, filtration is equally vital in reducing allergic reactions and asthma flare-ups and improving focus and productivity. By capturing dust, pollen, pet dander, and even some viruses, AHUs create a more comfortable and healthier atmosphere for occupants.

Modern AHUs are equipped with multi-stage filtration systems, including HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters and activated carbon filters. HEPA filters can trap particles as small as 0.3 microns, effectively capturing pollutants like pollen, mould spores, and fine dust, while activated carbon filters help remove odours and harmful gases.

High-efficiency particulate Air (HEPA) filters are among the oldest and most extensively understood technologies. They have traditionally found their primary applications in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and electronics manufacturing, particularly in clean room environments. Sharing his experience, Abhinav Gupta, CEO of ActiveBuildings, mentioned that they tried to incorporate HEPA in commercial buildings but met with hindrances. Clients often dismiss the idea, asserting that they are not running a hospital and do not require HEPA filters. However, the reality may differ, with elevated particulate matter levels demanding an effective filtration solution compared to conventional filters, like MERV filters, can provide.

There is a growing interest in exploring alternative materials and approaches. Some actively seek biodegradable materials that can emulate the performance of HEPA filters. Though these materials require frequent replacement, their biodegradability aligns with sustainability goals, appealing to those invested in the circular economy.

Humidity factor for health

While filtration removes particulate matter, managing humidity is another essential aspect of indoor air quality. Excess moisture in the air can create conditions that promote mould and mildew growth, leading to health problems like respiratory infections and allergies. Too little humidity can dry out mucous membranes in the respiratory system, increasing the risk of irritation, colds, and other illnesses. Mohamed notes that humidity also significantly affects health; maintaining a temperature of 18-23°C with a relative humidity of 30-65 percent creates a comfortable environment. Smart technology enhances air handling units (AHUs) by using sensors and PLCs to adjust dampers and impeller speeds, ensuring optimal air mixing without excessive costs.

Systems equipped with humidity control systems maintain the relative humidity at ideal levels between 40 and 60 percent. This level prevents the growth of harmful pathogens and ensures that the air is comfortable to breathe.

Comfort and well-being

Temperature regulation is one of the traditional functions of air handling systems. Maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature is essential for well-being, as extreme temperatures affect cognitive function and productivity. Prashant Gore, Manager of Engineering & Application at Ziehl-Abegg India, emphasises that Europe and the US have energy regulations that mandate highly optimised fans for condensers and chillers. India currently lacks specific standards for these devices. However, companies are still offering compatible solutions for both indoor and outdoor applications to align with these global standards.

Air handling systems adjust the temperature by heating or cooling the air as needed. By maintaining a consistent temperature that suits occupants’ needs, the systems help create a productive environment. However, the fresh air and health benefits go beyond comfort. Extreme temperature fluctuations can lead to health issues like heat exhaustion, dehydration, or even hypothermia.

Fresh air for health

Fresh air is critical to maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Ventilation systems integrated into AHUs help maintain adequate air exchanges, preventing the buildup of carbon dioxide (CO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other indoor pollutants. In occupancy environments such as offices, schools, and gyms, the importance of fresh air becomes even more apparent.

Fresh outdoor air also dilutes indoor contaminants, ensuring air stays breathable. This is particularly important in buildings with high insulation levels, where air can become stagnant if not ventilated. For instance, commercial buildings with high energy-efficiency standards can lead to sealed windows and reduced natural ventilation.

UV-C sterilisation

In response to growing concerns about air quality and health risks, HVAC systems and units now incorporate UV-C (ultraviolet C) light systems. UV-C light deactivates harmful pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and mould spores. This makes it a valuable addition in sensitive environments such as hospitals, laboratories, and food processing facilities. UV-C light helps ensure that air circulating in these spaces is clean in terms of particles and free from harmful pathogens that could risk health.

Smart technology

With smart controls and automation technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), AHUs offer exceptional precision and efficiency in maintaining indoor air quality. IoT-enabled sensors continuously monitor key parameters such as temperature, humidity, CO2 levels, and particulate matter concentrations, adjusting system settings in real-time to ensure optimal air quality. AI algorithms analyse this data to predict potential system failures or inefficiencies, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing downtime and costs. Additionally, smart controls optimise the operation of components like variable frequency drives (VFDs) and electronically commutated (EC) motors, leading to energy savings of up to 30 percent, as indicated by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). Building Management Systems (BMS) further enhance efficiency by allowing facility managers to remotely monitor and control AHUs, streamlining operations and improving response times to dynamic conditions.

Air handling for a healthier future  

The future of air handling lies in deeper integration with digital technologies and a stronger emphasis on sustainability. One emerging trend is the adoption of digital twins—virtual replicas of air handling units that simulate real-time performance, enabling predictive maintenance, energy optimisation, and scenario testing. Another key advancement is using green technologies, including sustainable materials and refrigerants with low global warming potential, which help minimise the environmental impact of HVAC systems. AI-driven systems will improve personalised comfort by tailoring air quality and climate settings to individual preferences, ensuring user satisfaction and well-being.

Final thinking

Investing in advanced air handling technology is essential for creating healthier indoor spaces. Modern air handling systems go beyond temperature control—they regulate humidity, filter pollutants, and optimise ventilation, ensuring cleaner air and improved occupant well-being. The future of indoor air quality lies in Smart, responsive, and eco-friendly air management systems. Energy-efficient designs reduce carbon footprints while maintaining superior air purity, promoting sustainability. Whether in offices, hospitals, or industrial settings, adaptive air handling solutions protect health, increase productivity, and create comfortable environments.

In conclusion, creating healthier indoor environments is about technological advancement and a moral responsibility. With air handling technologies, we can make a real impact on reducing indoor air pollution, injecting optimism in public health, and improving quality of life. Dr. Neira wisely notes, “A commitment to clean air is a commitment to a healthier, more sustainable future for all.” With innovation and increasing collaboration, indoor spaces can become safe health, comfort, and sustainability havens. Emerging trends in AHUs include Smart technology and IoT, tech- filters, and a focus on sustainability. As we move forward, air-handling systems will continue to evolve. It will bring us closer to creating indoor environments where health and comfort are immensely needed.

‘Clean air is not just a luxury but a basic human right. Investing in advanced air handling technology is as much about comfort as is for protecting health, increasing productivity, and promoting sustainability.’

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Dr. Maria Neira, Director of Environment, climate change and health. WHO.

Implementing advanced air handling technologies can save millions of lives and improve the quality of life for countless individuals worldwide.

Priyanka Singh, Programme Lead, Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW).

Awareness and mindful lifestyle changes are essential for healthier lives and a cleaner environment.

Mohamed Khaled, Qualification and Validation Engineer, Founder ValiHub.

Carbon filters, smart AHUs, and solar power improve air quality, regulate humidity, optimise ventilation, and reduce emissions for healthier spaces.

Abhinav Gupta, CEO, ActiveBuildings.

Adopting novel technologies to ensure human health remains a top priority for indoor air quality solutions.

Dalip Singh- Sr. Technical Analyst, AHRI.

Air tightness is a cornerstone of maintaining good indoor air quality (IAQ) by preventing contamination, stabilising environmental conditions, and ensuring effective air management.

Prashant Gore, Manager of Engineering & Application, Ziehl-Abegg India.

Energy-efficient fans optimise airflow and improve thermal management by reducing energy consumption, improving cooling performance, and maintaining better operating conditions in various environments.