Ask the Expert: Evolving Perspectives on Indoor Air Quality Management

As a member of Trane’s indoor air quality portfolio team, I have witnessed a significant shift in attitudes toward indoor air quality management in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic increased awareness of the importance of clean air and the pollutants that can be present in our indoor environments. Last summer, wildfires turned the fresh air outside into dangerous conditions driving people back indoors looking for refuge.  

Shifting priorities

While mitigating the presence of viruses and bacteria may no longer be the chief concern, there is still a strong focus on pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other gases that can impact our well-being. The variability of these conditions and influencing factors is why it’s so important to understand the significance of monitoring and reacting to these pollutants to maintain a healthier indoor environment.

Monitoring and response

Having the ability to monitor air quality and respond accordingly is vital – and it starts with ensuring your system is ready with the necessary capabilities. By increasing filtration, utilizing controls and sensors, and detecting rising CO2 or VOC levels, we can initiate ventilation and introduce clean outside air while exhausting contaminated air.