A

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology

AAAAI a membership organization of more than 6,600 allergist / immunologists and related professionals around the world with advanced training and experience dedicated to allergy, asthma, immune deficiencies and other immunologic diseases.

What the AAAAI says about allergies and allergens:

• A nationwide survey found that more than half (54.6%) of all U.S. citizens test positive to one or more allergens.
• In a recent survey, over 50% of homes had at least six detectable allergens present.
• Allergic diseases affect as many as 40 to 50 million Americans.

Center for Disease Control

Collaborating to create the expertise, information, and tools that people and communities need to protect their health -- through health promotion, prevention of disease, injury and disability, and preparedness for new health threats.

"Indoor environments are highly complex and building occupants may be exposed to a variety of contaminants (in the form of gases and particles) from office machines, cleaning products, construction activities, carpets and furnishings, perfumes, cigarette smoke, water-damaged building materials, microbial growth (fungal / mold and bacterial), insects, and outdoor pollutants. Other factors such as indoor temperatures, relative humidity, and ventilation levels can also affect how individuals respond to the indoor environment."

The space between the suspended and structural ceiling used as part of the air distribution system that accommodates the mechanical and electrical equipment.

Central Air Handling Unit

This is the same as an Air Handling Unit, but serves more than one area. Refers to equipment that includes a blower or fan, heating and / or cooling coils, and related equipment such as controls, condensate drain pans and air filters. The part of an HVAC system responsible for moving air, which may also clean, heat, or cool the air. This refers to equipment used to provide conditioned air to a space. Does not include ductwork, registers or grilles, boilers and chillers.

CFM

Cubic Feet Per Minute

Refers to the total volume of air, measured in cubic feet that is moved through the system in one minute. The total CFM that can be delivered through a duct is dependent on the pressure making the air move (the blower), combined with the size of the duct. Therefore, the larger the duct is, and the more pressure behind the air, the more air that can be moved. Minimum standards set by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE Standard 62-1989) requires that ventilation should provide a minimum of 15 CFM of outdoor air per person / 20 CFM in office spaces. 60 CFM may be required for some spaces (such as smoking lounges).

CFR

Code of Federal Regulations

The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) annual edition is the codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the departments and agencies of the Federal Government. It is divided into 50 titles that represent broad areas subject to Federal regulation.

CFU

Colony-Forming Unit

A measure of bacterial or fungal numbers. Unlike direct microscopic counts where all cells, dead and living, are counted, CFU measures viable cells. For convenience the results are given as CFU/mL (colony-forming units per milliliter) for liquids, and CFU/g (colony-forming units per gram) for solids.

Chiller

A heat exchanger using air, refrigerant, water and evaporation to transfer heat (BTUs) to produce air conditioning (measured in tons). A chiller is comprised of an evaporator, condenser and compressor system.

Clean Air Delivery Rate

Cadre. This is a standard developed by the independent association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) to measure the removal of dust, smoke and pollen from the air in cubic feet per minute (CFM).

Code Valve

Regulates the flow of water.

Coil

Equipment that performs heat transfer to air when mounted inside an air handling unit or ductwork. It is heated or cooled by electrical means or by circulating liquid or steam within it.  Example below.

Comfort Zone

Area on psychometric chart which shows conditions of temperature, humidity and sometimes air movement in which most people are comfortable".

Compressor

The heart of an air conditioning or heat pump system. The large part in the condenser (outdoor unit) that pumps refrigerant. The pump of a refrigerating mechanism which draws a low pressure on cooling side of refrigerant cycle and squeezes or compresses the gas into the high pressure or condensing side of the cycle. The compressor maintains adequate pressure to cause refrigerant to flow in sufficient quantities to meet the cooling requirements of the system.

Concentric

Centered

Condensation

The transformation of the water vapor content of the air into liquid water on cold surfaces. The beads or drops of water (or frost in extremely cold weather) that accumulate on the inside of the exterior covering of a building when warm. Moisture-laden air from the interior reaches a point where the temperature no longer permits the air to sustain the moisture it holds.

Condenser

A component in the basic refrigeration cycle that ejects or removes heat from the system. The condenser is the hot side of an air conditioner or heat pump. Condensers are heat exchangers, and can transfer heat to air or to an intermediate fluid (such as water or an aqueous solution of ethylene glycol) to carry heat to a distant sink, such as ground (earth sink), a body of water, or air (as with cooling towers).

Conditioned Air

Air that has been heated, cooled, humidified, or dehumidified to maintain an interior space within the "comfort zone." (Sometimes referred to as "tempered" air.)

Constant Air Volume

A system designed to provide a constant air flow. This term is applied to HVAC systems that have variable supply-air temperature but constant air flow rates. Most residential forced-air systems are small CAV systems with on/off control.

Controller

A device that controls the operation of part or all of a system. It may simply turn a device on and off, or it may more subtly modulate the set point of components. Most controllers are automatic but have user input such as temperature set points, e.g. a thermostat or humidistat. Controls may be analog or digital.

CPSC

United States Consumer Product Safety Commission

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death from thousands of types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction.

What the CPSC says about indoor air quality:

"In the last several years, a growing body of scientific evidence has indicated that the air within homes and other buildings can be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities. Other research indicates that people spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors. Thus, for many people, the risks to health may be greater due to exposure to air pollution indoors than outdoors."

CSA

Commission Specialists Association

The Commissioning Specialists Association (CSA) is at the forefront of career development and training for the Building Services, Commissioning and HVAC industries.

Specialising in Distance Learning, the CSA offer modular courses which allow you to study at your own pace. The CSA will provide you with professionally developed learning materials and the support of expert tutors to help guide you through grades 1-6. These qualifications ensure a consistent and uniform standard for the Commissioning industry.

Damper

A device used to vary and / or control airflow through an air duct. A damper may be immovable, manually adjustable or part of an automated system. When used in ductwork or a humidifier, the damper is a moveable plate that regulates air flow.

Damproofing

Sealing the foundation walls to help prevent outside moisture from entering the basement.

dB

A decibel is a unit used to measure the relative intensity of sound.

Dehumidification

Removing moisture from the air. The reduction of water vapor in air by cooling the air below the dew point; removal of water vapor from air by chemical means, refrigeration, absorption, etc.

Delta

A difference in temperature. Often used in the context of the difference between the design indoor temperature and the outdoor temperature.

Desiccants

Materials that readily absorb, remove moisture.

Dew Point

The temperature at which air cannot hold all the moisture in it and dew begins to form. Absolute measure of moisture in the air.

Dielectric

Not able to conduct direct electric current, and therefore used as an insulator.

Diffusers and Grilles

Components of the ventilation system that distribute and return air to promote air circulation in the occupied space. As used in this document, supply air enters a space through a diffuser or vent and return air leaves a space through a grille.

DL

Dual (two); 2 lamps for a given UV Air Purifier.

DOE

Department of Energy

The Department of Energy is a federal agency in charge of setting industry efficiency standards and monitoring the consumption of energy sources.

Drain Trap

A dip in the drain pipe of sinks, toilets, floor drains, etc., which is designed to stay filled with water, thereby preventing sewer gases from escaping into the room.

Drum Humidifier

A drum humidifier works on the principle of evaporation. As the rotating wheel turns, the sponge or pad receives constant moisture from the water reservoir. As the furnace sends warmed air into the drum unit, the air moves through the moistened sponge or pad. The humidified air then travels throughout the home's ducts.

Duct

A large "pipe" or closed conduit made of sheet metal, fiberglass board, or other suitable material used for conducting air to and from an air handling unit and delivering the air into a home (or other building). Round or rectangle in shape, ducts convey air at relatively low pressures.

Ductwork

The system by which air is channeled from the furnace or the blower coil throughout your home.

Dust Mite

Dust mites feed on organic detritus such as flakes of shed human skin and flourish in the stable environment of dwellings. House dust mites are a common cause of asthma and allergic symptoms worldwide. The mite's gut contains potent digestive enzymes (notably proteases) that persist in their feces and are major inducers of allergic reactions such as wheezing. The average life cycle for a male house dust mite is 10 to 19 days. A mated female house dust mite can last up to 70 days, laying 60 to 100 eggs in the last 5 weeks of her life. In a 10-week life span, a house dust mite will produce approximately 2,000 fecal particles and an even larger number of partially digested enzyme-covered dust particles.

Methods of dust mite eradication:

1. It is best to have a carpet-free house if dust mites or any house pests are dangerous for a person (e.g., because of their allergy), as flat surfaces are easier to clean and vacuum.
2. Anti-mite mattresses or mattresses which prevent any house pests should be used.
3. Regular cleaning and washing of areas where dust mites thrive is necessary to keep them and their waste to a minimum. A simple washing will not completely remove all mites or their droppings, but it will remove at least 90%;
4. Exposure to temperatures over 60 C (140 F) for a period of one hour or freezing, exposure to temperatures below 0 C (32 F),[11] will typically prove fatal to house dust mites;
5. Ten minutes in a household clothes dryer at lethal temperatures [near 105 C (221 F)] has been shown to be sufficient to kill all the dust mites in bedding.[12]
6. A relative humidity less than 50% may also help to control the number of mites.[13]
7. Disodium octaborate tetrahydrate (DOT) powder is often used to eradicate house dust mites.[14] The side-effect of DOT is irritation of eyes.

Efficiency

A rating on comfort equipment is similar to the miles per gallon rating on your car. The higher the rating number, the more efficient the system and the lower your fuel consumption will be. You can save a lot of money with a high-efficiency unit. Depending on your local climate, lifestyle and electricity rates, savings will vary. For furnaces. it is the rate at which a furnace maximizes fuel use. This rate is numerically described as a ratio called AFUE (see AFUE). As of January, 1991, no furnaces can be manufactured with efficiencies lower than 78% afue. High efficiency furnaces will be rated 85 to 95% afue.

Electrode

An electrode is a conductor through which electric current is passed. Found in variable forms, electrodes may be wires, plates, or rods and may be constructed of metal, such as copper, silver, lead, or zinc. Electrodes are used in the GeneralAire® Elite Steam Humidifiers to create steam. They are housed within a cylinder along with water. As electric current is passed between the electrodes, the water is boiled; creating steam.

As the humidifier operates, water is evaporated and minerals are left behind on the walls of the cylinder and the electrodes. Electrodes eventually become completely coated with mineral buildup, resulting in poor steam output. When this happens, you simply need to replace the cylinder within your humidifier.

Electronic Air Cleaner

Also known as EAC.  An electronic device that filters out large particles and bio-aerosols in indoor air.  Filters are usually those which can be cleaned and should be cleaned every one to two months.

Electrostatic Filter

A filter that uses electrostatically enhanced fibers to attract and retain particles.

Emissions

Substances given off into the air.

Energy Guide Label

A large yellow tag affixed to major appliances and HVAC equipment such as central air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, water heaters, and boilers that provides energy efficiency and operating cost information.  The label is designed to help consumers compare the operating cost of similar models. Example follows.

Energy Input Rating

The amount of input energy delivered at the burner of furnaces, water heaters, and boilers, measure in British thermal units (Btu's) per hour.

Energy Star®

An EPA designation attached to HVAC equipment to identify models that meet EPA guidelines for high-efficiency performance that exceed standard government minimums.  Manufacturers and retailers place the ENERGY STAR® label on those models that meet the labeling criteria.  The label helps consumers identify those products that will save energy and money.

Environmental Tobacco Smoke

Mixture of smoke from the burning end of a cigarette, pipe, or cigar and smoke exhaled by the smoker (also secondhand smoke (SHS) or passive smoking).

EPA

US Environmental Protection Agency

The EPA has 7 major priorities for the future:

1. Taking Action on Climate Change
2. Improving Air Quality
3. Assuring the Safety of Chemicals
4. Cleaning up our Communities
5. Protecting America's Waters
6. Expanding the Conversation on Environmentalism and Working for Environmental Justice
7. Building Strong State and Tribal Partnerships

What the EPA says about indoor air quality:

"In the last several years, a growing body of scientific evidence has indicated that the air within homes and other buildings can be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities. Other research indicates that people spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors. Thus, for many people, the risks to health may be greater due to exposure to air pollution indoors than outdoors."

FC

Fan Coil; indicating the placement of a UV Air Purifier next to the furnace fan coil to keep the coil clean.

ERV

Energy Recovery Ventilator

Electronic method of ventilation, designed to transfer heat and moisture during the exchange of indoor / outdoor air. Brings fresh air into your home to keep inhabitants healthy, remove odors, reduce moisture, remove indoor pollutants and lower relative indoor humidity. Every home needs ventilation, and due to weather, safety and noise many people find it impossible to keep doors and windows open long or often enough to properly ventilate their home.

ETL

Intertek

The ETL Listed Mark is proof of product compliance (electrical, gas and other safety standards) to North American safety standards. Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ's) in 50 states and Canada and retailers accept the ETL Listed Mark as proof of product safety. Manufacturers are choosing ETL because it gives them a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Today, the ETL mark is featured on millions of products sold by major retailers.

Evaporator Coil

The part of the air conditioner or heat pump that is located inside the air handler or attached to the furnace. Its primary function is to absorb the heat from the air in your house.

Evaporative Humidifier

The most common humidifier, an "evaporative" humidifier, consists of just a few basic parts:  water, a filter, and hot air from the furnace. The vapor pad's large surface area absorbs water distributed by a water distribution tube and tray. Hot air from the furnace blows through the vapor pad to evaporate the water and provide humidity to the home. Some evaporative humidifiers also have an internal fan that assists with evaporation and distribution through the ductwork.  The GeneralAire 4200 is shown below.

Exfiltration

Uncontrolled air leakage out of a building. Exfiltration air flow outward through a wall, building envelope, etc.

Exhaust

Air removed deliberately from a space, by a fan or other means, usually to remove contaminants from a location near their source. The air flow leaving the treated space. Exhaust may be accomplished by one or more of the following methods:

Extraction: exhaust in such a manner that the air is discharged into the atmosphere.

Relief: exhaust in such a manner that the air is allowed to escape from the treated space if the pressure in that space rises above a specified level.

Recirculation: exhaust in which the air is returned to the air treatment system.

Transfer: exhaust in which air passes from the treated space to another treated space.

FC

Fan Coil; indicating the placement of a UV Air Purifier next to the furnace fan coil to keep the coil clean.

Filter

A device for removing / straining unwanted matter / impurities from air, oil or liquids. Can be made of paper, cloth, sand, or other materials. Sample of products that use filters: air cleaners, automobiles, home heating furnaces, coffee makers, humidifiers, cigarettes, faucets, fountains, landscaping drainage systems, etc.

Filter Performance Rating

A grading system that uses a color/number system on a scale of 4 (green circle) to 10 (blue circle). Some manufacturers rate their filters using the FPR rather than MERV (the standard determined by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning and Engineers). In both rating systems the higher the number the more efficient the particulate removal.

Flange

A projecting rim, collar, or ring on a shaft, pipe, machine housing, etc., cast or formed to give additional strength, stiffness, or supporting area, or to provide a place for the attachment of other objects.

Forced Air

This describes a type of heating system that uses a blower motor to move air through the furnace and into the ductwork. Heating and or cooling system that connects to the conditioned space with duct-work that uses air as the moving fluid. The heating or cooling can come from any number of sources.

Formaldehyde

A colorless, pungent-smelling gas widely used by manufacturers of building materials and household products. It is commonly found in pressed wood products, particleboard, cabinetry, furniture, wood paneling, drawer fronts, furniture tops, older insulation and permanent press clothing.

Fungi

Any of a group of parasitic lower plants that lack chlorophyll, including molds and mildews.

Fungicide

Chemical substance that is used to get rid of fungi.

Gasket

Resilient (spongy) or flexible material used between mating surfaces of refrigeration unit parts, or on doors to give a leak proof seal.

Germicidal Lamp

Is a special type of lamp which produces ultraviolet light (UVC). This short-wave ultraviolet light disrupts DNA base pairing, leading to death of bacteria on exposed surfaces.

GPD

Gallons Per Day.  A measurement used to describe the amount of moisture a home may need based an a series of criteria, and the output of a given residential humidifier. 

Grains of Moisture

A measurement of humidity (water vapor). There are 7,000 grains of moisture in ONE pound of steam.

Grill

An opening of several slits side by side in a wall or metal sheet or other barrier, usually to let air or water enter and/or leave but keep larger objects including people and animals in or out.

Grommet

Grommets are made of different materials, such as metal, plastic or rubber. Grommets are used to protect a pierced material from further tearing or abrasion. A grommet can be utilized to protect a hose, a pipe, or other objects passing through a panel hole. Aside from that, it works as a spacer as it can easily snap into a pre-drilled panel hole.

HARDI

Heating, Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International

HARDI members market, distribute, and support heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration equipment, parts and supplies. HARDI Distributor members serve installation and service/replacement contractors in residential and commercial markets, as well as commercial/industrial and institutional maintenance staffs. HARDI proudly represents more than 450 distributor members representing nearly 3,400 branch locations and close to 500 suppliers, manufacturer representatives and service vendors.

Heat Exchanger

Device used to transfer heat from a warm or hot surface to a cold or cooler surface. (Evaporators and condensers are heat exchangers).

Heat Pump

A heat pump is a device that can heat and cool your home by transferring heat from one place to another. It can be a great option for saving energy, money, and the environment.

Heat Pump Pros:

• Higher heating efficiency
• Cheaper to run compared to a gas furnace
• No gas and carbon monoxide risk
• Doesn't burn fossil fuels

Heat Pump Cons:

• Higher upfront installation cost
• Higher electricity use
• Susceptible to power outages
• Less efficient in colder climates

HEPA

High Efficiency Particle Arrestor

Basically HEPA is a type of filter that can trap the smallest particles (0.3 micrometers ( m) in diameter) that other air filtration systems would simply re-circulate back into the air of your home. HEPA filters remove 99.97% of all airborne particles that can cause problems for allergy and asthma sufferers, reducing or eliminating them to make the air cleaner for those residing in your home. Because HEPA Air Filtration Systems combine HEPA filters with carbon-based materials, they stop mold spores, bacteria, viruses, pet dander and dust, and also help to eliminate harmful gasses and odors from your home. Thus, the air that leaves this type of air purifying system is cleansed and almost totally free from contaminants.

In the 1950's during WWII, HEPA filters were invented by the US Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), who needed something that would remove small radioactive dust particulates from the air. In the last decade HEPA-technology air purifiers have been used to clean indoor spaces from homes to beauty salons to hospitals and operating rooms across the country. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as well as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration have endorsed the HEPA filter as being the absolute best filter in cleansing the air.

High Efficiency Air Cleaner

An air filter installed in your central system that collects up to 99% of particles 5 microns or larger. In comparison your standard air filter only picks up about 8% of these same particles.

Horizontal Flow

When an air handler or furnace is positioned on its side and circulates air in one end and out the other. Ideal for attic or crawl space installations.

HSPF

The Heating Seasonal Performance Factor is the heating efficiency rating for heat pumps. The higher the rating, the more efficient the heat pump.

HRV

Heat Recovery Ventilator

Electronic method of ventilation designed to transfer heat during the exchange of indoor / outdoor air. Brings fresh air into your home to keep inhabitants healthy, remove odors, reduce moisture, remove indoor pollutants and lower relative indoor humidity. Every home needs ventilation, and due to weather, safety and noise many people find it impossible to keep doors and windows open long or often enough to properly ventilate their home.

Humidification

Process where product or system is used to increase the specific humidity of the air in a given space.

Humidistat

Like a thermostat used to select the desired heating or cooling temperature, a humidistat is the controller used to select the desired humidity level for one's home. It can be manual (usually a dial control, shown left) or automatic (digital control, utilizing an outdoor sensor that detects outdoor temperatures and changes the humidity level automatically to maintain selected humidity levels, shown right).

Humidity

Water vapor present in the air.

HVAC

Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning.

HVACR

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration.

Hydroscopic

Absorbing moisture; capable of easily absorbing moisture. Examples include: hardwood floors, carpet, artwork, kitchen cabinetry, molding and more.

IAQ

Indoor Air Quality

Refers to the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of air in a home, building, institution or commercial facility. Indoor air quality can be adversely influenced by many factors, such as:

• Processes or activities taking place within the building (use of tobacco, use of chemicals, painting, remodeling, etc.)
• Inadequate supply of outside, fresh air
• Contamination arising from sources within the building (tobacco smoke, volatile organic compounds from building materials, fabrics, furnishings, carpet, adhesives, fresh paint, animal dander, new paneling, cleaning products and office equipment)
• Contamination from outside the building brought in by air intakes, open doors and windows (pesticides, automobile emissions, dust, pollen, etc.)
• Microbial contamination of the ventilation system or building interior (germs, bacteria, etc.)
• Moisture / humidity (too much or too little)

The cost of poor IAQ?

• The American Lung Association says that U.S. adults miss approximately 14.5 million work days due to asthma.
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention estimate that sinus infection sufferers miss an average of four work days each year.
• Some estimates place the cost of poor IAQ to the United States' economy at $168 billion. Part of that cost relates to direct medical care, while some of it can be traced to reduced productivity due to "presenteeism" (when people go to work or school even when they are sick) and absenteeism.

IIAQC

International Indoor Air Quality Commission

The International Indoor Air Quality Commission was established in 2003 for the certification of indoor air quality professionals and their continued development, and for the endorsement of indoor air quality products. Its mission is to establish, assess, and promote recognized standards of competence and performance in the indoor air quality field.

Indoor Air Pollutant

Particles and dust, fibers, mists, bioaerosols, and gases or vapors.

Latent Heat

Heat that brings out a change in state (liquid to gas) without changing the temperature.

Light Emitting Diode

A semiconductor that emits light when a current passes through it. LED's are used as indicator lamps in many devices.

LED

The setting of a unit (humidifier, air cleaner, etc.) by which it is working at full capacity, or working at its hardest. A unit that runs continuously at maximum production can result in a shortened life.

Load Calculation

Load calculations consider a variety of factors: location (Boston's weather is different than that of Los Angeles), orientation (southwest glass gets much more sun than north glass), construction materials (insulation, brick or siding, etc.), building size, etc. Heating and cooling needs are expressed in BTUs per hour or Btu/h. A "block load" looks at the whole building's requirements as one large room. A "room-by-room" load calculation refines the calculation to determine a room or zone's requirements.

Manual J Calculation

A residential load calculation procedure, based on an accepted industry standard (approved by the American National Standards Institute) used for the proper sizing and selection of HVAC equipment in residential homes.

Maximum Production

The setting of a unit (humidifier, air cleaner, etc.) by which it is working at full capacity, or working at its hardest. A unit that runs continuously at maximum production can result in a shortened life.

Mechanical Ventilation

Moving air in and out of a building in a controlled quantity that can be conditioned (heated, cooled, cleaned); eliminating many of the problems (weather, noise, privacy, safety)  associated with natural ventilation (open doors, windows).

MERV

Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value

The MERV rating is the standard method for comparing the efficiency of an air filter. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filter is at removing particles from the air.

MERV ratings range from 1 - 20 and are measured in microns. Some of the common particles measured by MERV ratings are pet dander, insecticide dust, smog, dust, viruses, wood, tobacco smoke, spores, bacteria and pollen.

MERV ratings are determined by adding particles of varying sizes (1-12) into a controlled testing environment. The particles are added upstream of the test filter and a laser particle counter samples the air before it enters the filter and after it leaves the filter. The two particle counts are compared to calculate the Particle Size Efficiency of the tested filter. Once this is determined, a MERV Parameters chart is used to determine the MERV rating.

The most efficient filters have MERV ratings of 17 to 20 (considered HEPA) and will stop particles as small as 0.3 microns. These filters are used in hospitals and other super clean environments.

Micron

A micron is a metric measurement used to analyze very small particles. One micron is equal to 1/25,400 of an inch or one millionth of a meter.

Of particular importance when discussing indoor air quality solutions is how effective a product is at capturing/controlling contaminants 2.5 microns or less in size. Any particles less than 2.5 microns are classified as a Respirable Suspended Particle (RSP) and the health hazards with these small particles is great. RSP's are particles that are small enough to evade mucosal capture by the protective cilia and mucosa of the human upper respiratory system and invade the deeper reaches of the lungs with serious health consequences. In fact, any particles of five microns or less are considered a definite inhalation hazard because of the inability of the human body to filter effectively these particles from the lungs.

Allergenic particles, infectious agents and toxic gases can cause allergic reactions, headaches, sickness and many other illnesses. Since 98% of airborne contaminants are less than one (1) micron in size, knowing the effectiveness of any product at controlling submicron particles is very important when making a decision on an air purification system for your home.

Examples of some common air contaminants and their size in microns:

• Human Hair (70 - 100 microns)
• Pet Dander (0.5 - 100 microns)
• Pollen (5 - 100 microns)
• Spores from Plants (6 - 100 microns)
• Mold (2 - 20 microns)
• Smoke (.01 - 1 micron)
• Dust Mite Debris (0.5 - 50 microns)
• Household Dust (.05 - 100 microns)
• Skin Flakes (0.4 - 10 microns)
• Bacteria (0.35 - 10 microns)

5 Microns or smaller will pass through human lungs.

Mini Split System

A mini split system is ductless and uses an individual fan and evaporator unit for each room. Having mini split units in each air-conditioned room allows you to better control the temperature of each room in your home. Rooms that aren't being used regularly can be turned off to save energy.  Image below shows a mini-split system in one room.  Ideally, one would be placed in each room needing heating/cooling, and one that is not supported by a central heating/cooling system.

NAFA

National Air Filtration Association

NAFA is a dynamic, non-profit trade association. NAFA members include air filter and component manufacturers, sales and service companies, and HVAC and indoor air quality professionals across the United States and in several foreign countries. NAFA is comprised of individuals and companies engaged in the sale, service and manufacture of the air filtration products.

Various programs are undertaken by NAFA in an effort to maintain high levels of professionalism within the industry. These programs include education, certification, publications, meetings and technical seminars.

NAFA's Long Range Plan is to have all major segments of the user market --- industrial, commercial, healthcare, institutional and residential --- recognize NAFA certified professionals as benefits of breathing clean air.

NAM

National Association of Manufacturers

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) is the preeminent US manufacturers association as well as the nation's largest industrial trade association, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 12 million workers, contributes more than $1.6 trillion to the U.S. economy annually, is the largest driver of economic growth in the nation and accounts for the lion's share of private sector research and development.

NAM Motto: Leading Innovation. Creating Opportunity. Pursuing Progress.

NAM Mission Statement:

• The mission of the NAM is to be the voice for all manufacturing in the United States.
• To inform legislators, the Administration, the media, policy influencers and the public about manufacturing's vital leadership in innovation, job opportunity, technological progress and economic security.
• We are a respected and focused partner in achieving an economic environment that encourages the expansion of manufacturing in the United States and strengthens our global leadership.

NAOSHM / OESP

The National Association of Oil and Energy Service Professionals

Now known as Oil and Energy OESP Service Professionals.

For more than 50 years, as NAOHSM, we've been a force for positive change in the oil heating industry. Now, as the National Association of Oil and Energy Service Professionals, we've expanded our frontiers to encompass everyone connected with the critical job of supplying this great country's energy needs. The organization provides technical skills training, professional development, educational materials, conventions and trade show opportunities, social activities, tech school support and more.

Natural Ventilation

Air leaks within the structure allows air to enter (infiltration) or exit (exfiltration) the building. It can also simply be opening windows and doors. This air is uncontrolled/unconditioned, bringing in airborne moisture, dust, pollen, pesticides and anything being stored (chemicals, solvents, pesticides, etc.) in an attached garage. The exfiltration can force air that has been conditioned and / or cleaned out of the building, reducing efficiency and increasing cost of any air processing units.

NEFI

The New England Fuel Institute

The New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) is a nationally recognized trade organization of over 1,200 independent Oilheat, Bioheat and related home energy dealers and associated businesses in the six New England States.

NEFI provides national leadership on legislative and regulatory rules and regulations for the Oilheat industry in Washington, DC, and is a prominent industry voice before the public and media. NEFI offers its members many communications, education and networking opportunities and events.

NEMA

The National Emergency Management Association

The National Emergency Management Association (NEMA) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit 501(c)(3) association dedicated to enhancing public safety by improving the nation's ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from all emergencies, disasters, and threats to our nation's security. NEMA is the professional association of and for emergency management directors from all 50 states, eight U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia. NEMA provides national leadership and expertise in comprehensive emergency management; serves as a vital emergency management information and assistance resource; and advances continuous improvement in emergency management through strategic partnerships, innovative programs, and collaborative policy positions. 

O₃

Ozone; technology within UV air purifiers used to remove odors in the home.

OEM

Original Equipment Manufacturer

This means that a replacement part you purchase is manufactured by the original company that produced the product. For instance. If you have a GeneralAire® air cleaner, ideally you would purchase all future replacement filters manufactured by GeneralAire®. Other companies make replacement filters, however, many of the generic knock-off's or fake brand name filters may be of inferior quality in order to get the price down. Preserve the life of your product. Always use OEM products.

OD

Outdoor - referring to UV Air Purifier models that may be placed in an commercial outdoor application; as with our 2000-230 OD Model.

Off-Gassing

Also know as "Out-Gassing".

"Off-gassing" refers to the evaporation of synthetic compounds used in manufacturing a host of products, from cars to computers and toys to tennis balls. Two of the most identifiable types of off-gassing are the telltale "new car" and "new carpet" smells. Adhesives, wallpaper, and paints are other common offenders. Their smell makes it obvious that they're giving off gas. Low levels of formaldehyde, a colorless and sharp-smelling gas, can also accumulate indoors from construction materials and household products like new furniture, cabinetry, and floor coverings. Other common household items that off-gas with little to no odor include bedding, furniture, and cabinetry.

Off-gassing can also be odorless. A study conducted at Stockholm University in Sweden found that certain computer monitors emit a chemical --- triphenyl phosphate --- that can cause allergic reactions. Triphenyl phosphate is a flame retardant that's added to many plastics (in the case of the Swedish study, it was contained in the computer monitors' casings). When turned on, the monitors' heat caused the compound, which is not bonded to the plastic, to start evaporating.

Offgassing of products can irritate your respiratory system. A person can experience red, puffy, watery eyes, a runny nose, congestion or coughing and asthma-type symptoms. Offgassing can also cause skin irritations, like rashes, itchiness and hives.

Ohmmeter

An instrument for direct measurement in ohms of the resistance of a conductor in ohms. An ohmmeter is useful in troubleshooting electrical or electronic circuits and devices to help pinpoint the cause of component failures.

Never use an ohmmeter on a circuit that has voltage from a source other than the meter itself. Attempting to conduct resistance checks on a circuit that has not been disconnected from its power source will result in a false reading and may damage the meter.

Organic Compounds

Chemicals that contain carbon. Volatile organic compounds vaporize at room temperature and pressure. They are found in many indoor sources, including many common household products and building materials.

Orifice

Opening. As in pipe or tube. In IAQ products it is used to control the flow of water or refrigerant through an opening.

OSHA

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

OSHA'S mission: to assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.

What OSHA says about indoor air quality:

Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) has been tied to symptoms like headaches, fatigue, trouble concentrating, and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. Also, some specific diseases have been linked to specific air contaminants or indoor environments, like asthma with damp indoor environments. In addition, some exposures, such as asbestos and radon, do not cause immediate symptoms but can lead to cancer after many years.

Ozone

Ozone is a colorless odorless gas; the same kind of gas that's found in the ozone layer. But in the ozone layer -- high in the Earth's stratosphere -- ozone protects us from the sun. At ground level, where we live, ozone pollution is unhealthy to breathe. Ground-level ozone forms when pollutants from cars, trucks, power plants, industries, and some consumer products "cook" in the sun. Ozone usually peaks during the afternoon hours, when sunlight is the most intense.

PAQ

Perceived Air Quality

Simply stated, a person's perception about the quality of air inside a space. Does it smell unpleasant? Does it seem stuffy? Does it make the person cough or sneeze? Does it feel heavy? Stale?

Particulate

A "Particulate" is a tiny solid or liquid particle or piece of matter. It usually refers to particles in the air (airborne particulates).

There are many sources for particulates in the air. Among them are soil, plants, fires, road dust and dust mites. Other sources include fumes from combustion processes and products, like tobacco smoke, car exhaust, power plants, wood stoves, oil burners or other heating systems. Even burning candles or oil in lanterns can be sources of particulates. Also included: dust from mechanical processes like grinding or sweeping, and common household dust that may include mold, pollen, and small insect parts. Fibrous building material such as fiberglass may also be a source of particulates. Mist from spray painting also creates airborne particulates.

Pathogen

An infection agent. Germ, virus, bacteria, prion or fungus that causes disease in its host.

Penetration

A measure, in percent, of the material passing through a filter. Mathematically penetration is 100 - Efficiency (percent). If a filter is 98% efficient, its penetration is 2% (100 - 98). Penetration is used to measure the performance of very high efficiency filters.

Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO)

In the presence of organic pollutants such as solvents, alcohols, carbon monoxide, dyes and fuel oils, the activated photocatalyst attacks the pollutants' chemical bonds, converting the toxic compounds to benign constituents such as water and carbon dioxide. 

From an article by Jeanie Wong:

Because PCO technology is an extremely powerful purification method, PCO units have the ability to eliminate particles as small as 0.001 microns, including the tiny penetrating particles that can absorb into your lungs and cause damage (HEPA filters are only able to filter out particles as small as 0.3 microns). Studies have also shown that in addition to VOCs, toxic gases, and chemicals, photocatalytic units can also render gases like carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide harmless - pollutants which can often escape standard units utilizing HEPA or ionic technology alone.

Positive Pressure

Condition that exists when more air is supplied to a space than is exhausted, so the air pressure within that space is greater than that in surrounding areas. Under this condition, if an opening exists, air will flow from the positively pressurized space into surrounding areas.

PPB

Parts Per Billion

PPB (or ppb) is used to measure the concentration of a contaminant in soils and sediments. In that case 1 PPB equals 1 g of substance per kg of solid ( g/kg).

PPB (or ppb) is also sometimes used to describe small concentrations in water, in which case 1 ppb is equivalent to 1 g/l because a liter of water weighs approximately a 1000 000 g. This use of PPB tends to be phased out in favor of g/l.

PPB (or ppb) is often used to describe concentrations of contaminants in air (as a volume fraction). In this case the conversion of PPB to g/m3 depends on the molecular weight of the contaminant.

For example, 1 ppb chlorine represents one part of chlorine in one thousand million parts of air by weight, which is 1.45 g/m3.

The PPB unit is mainly used in North America.

Presenteeism

When employees come to work even when they're sick.

Pressure Drop

The pressure drop of a filter is a measure of its resistance to air flow through it. For filtration purposes, Pressure Drop is the reduction in air pressure caused by using a filter. It is a trade-off inherent in filtration: less efficient filters tend to have a lower Pressure Drop; more efficient filters tend to have a higher Pressure Drop. Resistance is measured in inches w.g. in the Inch-Pound system of measurement (1" w.g. = 0.036 psi). It is measured in Pascals in the SI system.

PSI

Pounds Per Square Inch. 

Symbol or initials used to indicate pressure measure in pounds per square inch absolute. Absolute pressure equals gauge pressure plus atmospheric pressure.

Psychrometrics

Also known as Psychrometry. Psychrometrics is the measurement of water vapor and heat in an air sample. It is used in the refrigeration industry, the design of clean rooms, certain manufacturing processes, and for theoretical applications. Psychrometry is a branch of thermodynamics and deals with terms like dry-bulb temperature, wet-bulb temperature, specific heat, and relative humidity. An understanding of psychrometry is a prerequisite for precise control of the humidity of contained environments. The key concept in psychrometrics is the relationship between wet-bulb temperature, dry-bulb temperature, and relative humidity.

PVC

Poly Vinyl Chloride

PVC is an acronym for polyvinyl chloride, a type of plastic.  Plastic is combined with vinyl to manufacture PVC piping.  PVC is used in the electrical industry for conduit and in the plumbing industry for various piping applications.  In most cases, PVC piping is less expensive in both initial purchase and installation costs.

R-22

Chlorodifluoromethane or difluoromonochloromethane is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC). This colorless gas is better known as HCFC-22, or R-22, or (CH ClF2). It was commonly used as a propellant and refrigerant, but became illegal to use in the United States in January of 2020.  The new standard is R-410A, although R-410A is already being replaced with R-32, which has one-third the global warming potential of R-410A.  

Radiant Heating

Heating by means of heaters such as radiators, baseboard heaters, and electric coils, not by forced hot air. Radiant heating systems involve supplying heat directly to the floor or to panels in the wall or ceiling of a house. The systems depend largely on radiant heat transfer: the delivery of heat directly from the hot surface to the people and objects in the room via the radiation of heat, which is also called infrared radiation. Radiant heating is the effect you feel when you can feel the warmth of a hot stovetop element from across the room. When radiant heating is located in the floor, it is often called radiant floor heating or simply floor heating.

Refrigerant

A chemical that produces a cooling effect while expanding or vaporizing.  Refrigerants are heavily regulated due to their toxicity, flammability and their contribution to ozone depletion and climate change. R410A refrigerant is a chlorine-free refrigerant that meets the EPA's newest, most stringent environmental guidelines. Refrigerants are used in refrigerators, home and automobile air conditioners, ice makers, freezers, ice rinks, and dehumidifiers.

Relative Humidity

(RH) percentage of water vapor in air: the ratio of the amount of water vapor in the air at a given temperature to the maximum amount air can hold at the same temperature, expressed as a percentage.

Return Air

Air drawn into a heating unit after having been circulated from the heater's output supply to a room. The air removed from an occupied space and returned to the air handler to be exhausted or recirculated.

SBS

Sick Building Syndrome

A condition in which a building is very tightly insulated against infiltration, its ventilation is reduced for energy conservation, and airborne contaminants are sufficiently elevated to cause adverse health effects in occupants. Occupants may experience fatigue, headache, dry eyes, and respiratory complaints affecting workers in certain buildings with limited ventilation. The symptoms seem to be caused by a combination of chemical agents in low concentrations rather than a specific irritant. Also known as tight building syndrome (TBS).

SEER

A measure of seasonal or annual efficiency of a central air conditioner or air conditioning heat pump. It takes into account the variations in temperature that can occur within a season and is the average number of Btu of cooling delivered for every watt-hour of electricity used by the heat pump over a cooling season.

Sensible Heat

When a change in temperature of a substance occurs. This change can be felt or measured when increased or decreased.

Setback

A reduction of climate control energy demand in HVAC controls when a building is unoccupied.

Setpoint

The temperature to which a thermostat is set to result in a desired heated space temperature.

Single Package

A heating and cooling system contained in one outdoor unit.

SIPT

Superoxide Ion Plasma Technology

Technology that helps reduce the source of a wide range of unpleasant household odors including cooking, pets, garbage and cigarette smoke odors. 

Singlet Oxygen

Unstable oxygen molecule that is created by energizing airborne oxygen.

 SL

Single.  One lamp (vs two) for a UV Air Purifier.

SMACMA

Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association

The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA) is an international trade association representing 1,834 member firms in 97 chapters throughout the United States, Canada, Australia, and Brazil.  A leader in promoting quality and excellence in the sheet metal and air conditioning industry, SMACNA has offices in Chantilly, VA., which is outside of Washington, D.C., and on Capitol Hill. 

Source Control

A preventive strategy for reducing airborne contaminant levels through removal of the material or activity generating the pollutants. An example would be to remove carpet. Carpet contains many allergy and asthma triggers; from the carpet fibers themselves, to dust, animal dander, dust mites and other particulates that carpet holds.

Sources

Sources of indoor air pollutants. Indoor air pollutants can originate within the building or be drawn in from outdoors. Common sources include people, pets, room furnishings such as carpeting, photocopiers, art supplies, etc.

Split Systems

An HVAC system in which some components are located inside the structure of the house and some are located outside. Split systems should be matched for optimal efficiency.  An example would be that your air conditioner is located outside your home and your furnace is located inside your home.

Spore

Molds reproduce by means of spores. Spores are microscopic; they vary in shape and size (2-100 micrometers). Spores may travel in several ways--they may be passively moved (by a breeze or water drop), mechanically disturbed (by a person or animal passing by), or actively discharged by the mold (usually under moist conditions or high humidity).

SRT

Service Roundtable™

Formed by leading contractors, the SRT is a membership program that offers an incredible array of HVAC, Electrical, Solar, and Plumbing best practice tools to help you generate leads, close more sales, market your company, recruit technicians and plumbers, price for profit, manage your service agreements, and create an exit strategy.

The SRT uses the Internet to drive costs down, passing the savings onto you. The SRT provides access to over $3 million of business building sales letters, post cards, web tools, ads, brochures, consumer newsletters, recruiting pieces, pricing calculators, training videos and more.

Standoff

Insulation standoffs are used to extend damper handles so they remain accessible when ductwork is wrapped with insulation.

Static Pressure

The resistance air encounters while traveling throughout a building's HVAC system.  High static pressure can be caused by kinks in ductwork, sagging flex ducts, excessive bends and dips, and other installation mishaps.  A dirty air filter can also cause high static pressure.  In serious cases, high static pressure can drastically reduce the life of your equipment.

Steam Humidifier

Essentially, a steam humidifier boils water, releasing steam and moisture into the air. GeneralAire® steam humidification is produced by passing electric current through water inside a plastic steam generator cylinder between highly-conductive metal electrodes. Steam output is directly proportional to the conductivity of the water between clean electrodes. The Steam Cylinder, therefore, is the engine of the humidifier. The GeneralAire® steam humidifier can either be incorporated into your home's HVAC system, or affixed to a wall to provide humidification to your whole house.

 Supply Side

The part of an HVAC system that takes (supplies) the conditioned air from the air-handling unit or furnace to your home. The supply side should be "balanced" with the return side to ensure proper air flow and comfort.

TEK Screws

Self-drilling screws that are similar to sheet metal screws but have a drill point instead of coming to a sharp point. They will drill their own hole; eliminating the need to pre-drill a pilot hole.

Thermostat

A control installed in a main living area of the home inside that allows the home owner to set the temperature of their heating or cooling equipment.  A sensor inside reads temperature fluctuations, which turns the furnace or air conditioner on and off to maintain the desired temperature.

Tight Building Syndrome

A condition in which a building is very tightly insulated against infiltration, its ventilation is reduced for energy conservation, and airborne contaminants are sufficiently elevated to cause adverse health effects in occupants. Occupants may experience fatigue, headache, dry eyes, and respiratory complaints affecting workers in certain buildings with limited ventilation. The symptoms seem to be caused by a combination of chemical agents in low concentrations rather than a specific irritant. TBS is often used synonymously with sick building syndrome (SBS).

Titanium Dioxide

Titanium dioxide (TiO2), particularly in the anatase (crystal) form, is the best in UV light photocatalysts.

GeneralAire® coats a 24 Sq. Ft. surface area of the honey combed aluminum cells within the PCO2450 VectorFlo® UV Light Purifier with titanium dioxide for the most advance germicidal kill rate technology available. The photocatalytic oxidation process breaks down harmful pollutants (VOC's) into harmless carbon dioxide and water molecules to give you clean, healthy, pure air.

The PCO2450 VectorFlo® incorporates titanium dioxide photocatalytic technology (PCO) and uses broad-spectrum UV light to eliminate harmful VOC particles as small as 0.001 microns; microns even smaller than what a HEPA filtration system can capture (0.3).

Transformer

A device that transfers electrical energy from one circuit to another, either increasing (stepping up) or reducing (stepping down) the voltage through inductively coupled conductors---the transformer's coils.

Tungsten Wire

Tungsten is the most widely used of the refractory metals. In wire form, it is used in electrical applications. Tungsten is essential for the production of lighting products such as wire filament, and other goods where its high temperature properties are of use. Among its properties are a melting point of 3410 C, a low coefficient of thermal expansion and low vapor pressure at elevated temperatures, along with good electrical and thermal conductivity.

UL

Underwriters Laboratories

UL is a global independent safety science company offering expertise across five key strategic businesses: Product Safety, Environment, Life & Health, Knowledge Services and Verification Services. Our breadth, established objectivity and proven history mean we are a symbol of trust and enable us to help provide peace of mind to all.

m

Metric unit commonly used to identify particle sizes. Also known as micron and micrometer. These ratings range from those with very large particles to those as small as 0.1- m diameter. For comparison, 5 m is the approximate diameter of the cross section of a grain of talcum powder.

UV

Ultra Violet

Designates a band of the electromagnetic spectrum with wavelength from 10 nm to 400 nm, shorter than that of visible light but longer than X-rays. UV radiation is present in sunlight, and contributes about 10% of the total light output of the Sun. It is also produced by electric arcs and specialized lights, such as mercury-vapor lamps, tanning lamps, and black lights. Although long-wavelength ultraviolet is not considered an ionizing radiation because its photons lack the energy to ionize atoms, it can cause chemical reactions and causes many substances to glow or fluoresce. Consequently, the chemical and biological effects of UV are greater than simple heating effects, and many practical applications of UV radiation derive from its interactions with organic molecules.

Vapor Pad

Also known as Water Pad, Water Panel, Humidifier Pad, Humidifier Filter, or Evaporator Pad, the Vapor Pad® is usually made with an aluminum frame coated with a hydrophilic material that holds water. As warm air from your furnace passes through the water-soaked pad, humidity is delivered throughout your home.

It is important to replace the Vapor Pad® at the start of the heating season each year instead of trying to wash it. If you attempt to wash the pad, you also wash away the coating that holds the water, and your humidifier is not able to produce the humidity you need.

Black mark shown indicates positioning inside the humidifier, with the black mark on top.

Variable Air Volume

An HVAC system that has a stable supply-air temperature, and varies the air flow rate to meet the temperature requirements. Compared to constant air volume systems, these systems conserve energy through lower fan speeds during times of lower temperature control demand. Most new commercial buildings have VAV systems. VAVs may be bypass type or pressure dependent. Pressure dependent type VAVs save energy while both types help in maintaining temperature of the zone that it feeds.

Ventilation

The process of supplying or removing air from the outdoors by natural (opening windows and doors) or mechanical (powered air components such as an ERV or HRV) means to or from any space. Such air may or may not have been conditioned or treated.

Ventilation Rate

The rate at which indoor air enters and leaves a building. Expressed in one of two ways: the number of changes of outdoor air per unit of time (air changes per hour, or "ach") or the rate at which a volume of outdoor air enters per unit of time (cubic feet per minute, or "cfm").

Venturi Effect

Applies to both air and water. As air (or water) flows through a narrowing or constricted area of a given space, the pressure decreases while the velocity increases. If holes are incorporated in the narrow or constricted part of the space, a vacuum is created and air (or water) is drawn in through the holes from the outside.

This effect is incorporated in the GeneralAire® PCO2450 VectorFlo® (VectorFlo®=Venturi Effect). Installed in your HVAC system, the PCO2450 VectorFlo® uses the Venturi Effect (assisted also by your HVAC system moving air through your duct) to draw air into the unit for maximum exposure, making it the most effective UV Light treatment available for reducing levels of air borne bacteria, mold, fungus and other infestations.

Virus

A microscopic particle composed of DNA or RNA surrounded by a protein coat. Viruses replicate by entering a cell, releasing their own DNA or RNA and controlling the DNA of the cell to manufacture more of the virus DNA or RNA and the surrounding protein coating. In the process the cell is usually destroyed, its walls disrupted, and the virus released into the surrounding environment.

VOC

Volatile Organic Compounds

One of a class of chemical compounds; indoor sources include tobacco smoke, building products, furnishings, cleaning materials, pesticides, correction fluids, building materials, nail polish remover (acetone) , ethanol (found in many cleaning products) cleaning supplies, Alcohol, paint strippers, solvents, and office supplies. In sufficient quantities, VOCs can cause eye, nose, and throat irritations; dizziness; and headaches. Some VOCs are suspected carcinogens.

Data for health effects resulting, from exposure to the characteristically low levels of VOCs in the indoor environment are scarce. Compounds that vaporize (become a gas) at room temperature. Common sources which may emit VOCs into indoor air include housekeeping and maintenance products, and building and furnishing materials.

In sufficient quantities, VOCs can cause eye, nose, and throat irritations, headaches, dizziness, visual disorders, memory impairment; some are known to cause cancer in animals; some are suspected of causing, or are known to cause, cancer in humans.

Volt

Unit of electric potential difference: the unit of electromotive force and electric potential difference equal to the difference between two points in a circuit carrying one ampere of current and dissipating one watt of power.

W.C.  

Water Column

The testing standards for air filters have been developed by committees of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).  For many years tests for air filters were done according to ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 52.1-1992; Gravimetric and dust spot procedures for testing air cleaning devices used in general ventilation for removing matter. This test produces an average atmospheric dust spot efficiency expressed in terms such as a 30%, 65%, 90%, etc., arrestance (the percentage of the test dust captured by the filter by weight), dust holding capacity and pressure drop measured in inches of water gauge (w.g.) or water column (w.c.).  The test dust used is a combination of cotton linters, carbon black and Arizona Road Dust.

Water Conductivity

Conductivity is a measure of the ability of water to pass an electrical current. Conductivity in water is affected by the presence of inorganic dissolved solids such as chloride, nitrate, sulfate, and phosphate anions (ions that carry a negative charge) or sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, and aluminum cations (ions that carry a positive charge). Organic compounds like oil, phenol, alcohol, and sugar do not conduct electrical current very well and therefore have a low conductivity when in water. Conductivity is also affected by temperature: the warmer the water, the higher the conductivity. For this reason, conductivity is reported as conductivity at 25 degrees Celsius (25 C).

Pure water is not a good conductor of electricity. Because the electrical current is transported by the ions in solution, the conductivity increases as the concentration of ions increases. Certain ions, such as nitrates, chloride and phosphates, are better carriers than sugar, alcohol and oil. Softened water is generally not recommended for a steam humidifier.

Watt

Unit of electrical power: the international SI unit of power equal to the power produced by a current of one ampere acting across a potential difference of one volt.

Whole House System

Air treatment system, generally installed in a residential home's HVAC system, that treats the whole house Vs just one room.

Portable (stand alone single room) air cleaners, humidifiers and dehumidifiers generally treat only one room in the home. Portable units can take up ample space in a room and sometimes be quite noisy and unattractive. Maintenance can also be daunting. Airborne impurities exist throughout a home, so while one room is treated it can also be quickly re-infected as people travel from other contaminated rooms into the treated room (bringing contaminants with them). While portable units may be the only option for those who live in apartment homes or other rental property (where one does not have the authorization or room to make such additions to your home's HVAC system), whole house systems are preferred because:

• They treat / protect the whole home.
• They protect you 24/7, 365 days per year.
• Maintenance is usually minimal.
• The operation is generally more quiet.
• They can be easily installed / incorporated within the home's HVAC system and out of site.
  

Zone

In HVAC an area within the interior space of a building, such as an individual room(s), to be cooled, heated, or ventilated. A zone has its own thermostat to control the flow of conditioned air into the space.