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Fan Convector Heaters - COVID -19

ShippoYork
To all

We are all aware of the requirements and advice for using AHU/AC systems in relation to COVID -19 , specifically fan coil units , however I am struggling to find any guidance from HSE, or BESA on the safe operation / use of Fan convector heaters during COVID-19


I would appreciate any advice
  • Former Community Member
    0 Former Community Member
    Are you talking about electric/lthw heaters serving a single room? Personally, I don't see any issues.

    The main concern with central AHU/AC systems was the ability for the virus to spread due to circulation of air around several offices. Within a single room you would not normally be sharing the air with people who otherwise would not be in that room. I would also suggest that the action of convector heaters in passing air over a hot element would act to reduce any airborne virus that might be present.
  • 0
    Yes Im referring to Fan Convector Heaters serving a single room. I have however found some guidance from 

    REHVA




    Federation of European Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Associations
    www.rehva.eu/.../rehva-covid-19-faq


    Question
    In the guidance document it is mentioned that the virus is susceptible to temperatures above 30 ºC. In fan coil units, temperatures of 40ºC can be easily reached. Can this be a way to eliminate or reduce viruses in suspension in a building? Would it be advisable to maximise the temperatures of the fan-coil circuit? 
    Answer
    To inactivate the virus, a temperature increase is needed up to 37 ℃ for one day and 56 ℃ for 30 minutes. Considering a safety margin of 3-4 ℃, it would be advisable to operate at 40 ℃ for one day and 60 ℃ for one hour. These temperatures apply mainly for the heat exchanger surfaces and not the filters where temperature is expected to remain at lower levels. Therefore, a filter replacement might be considered if such heating measure will be taken.

  • 0
    Also "The Lancet" provides infomation

    The Lancet - The effects of Temperature and time on Covid Virus - mmc1.pdf

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