The air flow from hot to cool creates condensation that leads to potential health hazards from pathogens trapped in the inner working of an HVAC system. UV and Plasma Air Technology both go after these pathogens. Filters used in the HVAC system stop contaminants but also can actually trap organic materials where they may grow and increase the health risk.
We have isolated few fungal pathogens, such as Aspergillus fumigatus, A.niger, Cryptococcus neoformans and others from the dust collected from the air conditioners. All these fungi were recovered by dilution technique on Pal sunflower seed medium, which was discovered by us in 1980 as a differential medium for Cr.neoformans.
In a study on HVAC system of dairy processing establishments, we found various molds species namely, Aspergillus and Penicillium spp.
In HVAC systems due to the dark and humid environment microbes such as methylobacteria can be found. These are more prone to form on the components that have phase changes ( evaporators and condensers)
Dear Kurt Grossman
The filter should be sterilized from time to time.
Cordially
Kurt, are you asking where in the system will these pathogens stay and thrive?These bugs survive in moist surroundings, so obviously in the areas prone to damp, which will be the cool components (condenser outlet area) but in fact any crevice which could perennially hold moisture such as folded metal sheet, peeling paint or coating, uninsulated or exposed tubes where condensate can seep into insulation, all have an excellent chance of housing and breeding airborne microbes. Places which never get fully dry, preferably dark with a little warmth.
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