Learning About Commercial HVAC Systems
About Me
Learning About Commercial HVAC Systems

Hello, my name is Jacob. I would like to talk about proper installation and repair of the HVAC system in your commercial building. Full scale HVAC systems for commercial buildings require ongoing maintenance and repairs to keep every floor and room at a comfortable temperature. These temperature control systems also control the air quality in the building by sending the airflow through filter elements. My site will cover all aspects of the upkeep needed for these systems. I will also talk about the benefits of keeping your air quality and temperatures at desirable levels. Thanks for coming to visit my website.

Learning About Commercial HVAC Systems

Legionnaires' Disease and HVAC Systems: What You Need to Know

Isaiah Chapman

Is it possible to get Legionnaires' disease from an HVAC system? What exactly is this disease, and how does someone get it? Here's all you need to know about the connection between this condition and HVAC systems and what you can do to protect yourself.

What Is Legionnaires' Disease?

The disease is caused by the bacterium Legionella pneumophila, a type of bacteria connected with HVAC systems and other cooling systems. The symptoms of the disease are very much like normal pneumonia, but it is a specialized type and can be misdiagnosed as Pontiac Fever, which is a milder form of the dangerous disease.

Despite the disease being around for decades, it has only recently been named. It is also one of the hardest conditions to treat and has led to numerous deaths. In 1976, 34 people died from Legionnaires' disease. Anyone is at risk of developing the disease, although smokers, those with chronic diseases, and people with compromised immune systems are most at risk.

How Are HVAC Systems Involved?

The bacteria contaminate water sources, and people breathe the bacteria in through the mist disseminated by HVAC systems. HVAC systems can be contaminated by the bacteria due to rust or sludge. Humidifiers are also linked to causing the disease, along with cooling towers and whirlpool spas.

Only walker-cooled air-conditioning systems can be affected. There are also things you can do to prevent the bacteria from contaminating your system.

How Can You Prevent Legionnaires' Disease?

Poor maintenance is the main reason for the bacteria contaminating the water source. Systems that collect algae or allow rust to develop offer the bacteria something to feed on. Routine maintenance will prevent rust from forming and remove any debris or sludge from the tanks.

Using refrigerant cooling systems will also protect your home. The bacteria can't feed on anything within these systems at all. Many systems you buy now will run on refrigerant, whether you have a system with ducts or not. 

What Can You Do If Your System Is Contaminated?

If you believe your system has become contaminated with the bacteria, it's important to seek expert advice from a professional such as Winters Heating Cooling. There are tests available to check the level of bacteria and determine whether they can be flushed out, and this can save you money on a new system. Some of the options include heat treatments and chlorination. While getting the system treated, discuss ways to prevent the problem from occurring again.

Legionnaires' disease is extremely dangerous but is preventable when it comes to HVAC systems. Maintain your water-based system or switch to a refrigerant one to keep you and your family safe.


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