Chris Maks
Higher-rated filters might stop more particles, but they aren’t compatible with all HVAC systems. Certain air-purification systems work only in combination with negative-pressure rooms, as the virus that causes COVID-19 is so small it’s difficult to pull back through the rooms via typical return vents in forced-air systems. Paint embedded with antimicrobial additives is touted to kill coronaviruses on surfaces, but it’s yet to obtain EPA approval. Today’s edgy aesthetics might date the look too soon. That doesn’t work for a firm whose people aim to create legacy designs for clients.
“Early in the year, a lot of manufacturers made claims about products that could kill the coronavirus. It was kind of the ‘Wild West,’ just trying to navigate all this new information,” mechanical engineer Chris Maks said. “In the background, we have professional societies weighing in and providing guidance on what’s proven. Some of those technologies are making their way to the forefront now because more research has been done. But we always look at it from the client’s perspective. What do they need? What are the pros or cons for different options? What costs more upfront and what comes with higher replacement costs for the components that wear out?”
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