Here are the guidelines for using air conditioner during coronavirus pandemic
As the world continues to grapple with the spread of novel coronavirus, COVID-19 pandemic has already spread to 185 countries, causing more than 206,802 fatalities across the world. However, in addition to battling the havoc wreaked by the SARS-CoV-2, people in India are facing yet another problem.
AC in summer?
The summer sun is beating down in various cities across India as the mercury continues to soar. Ideally, this is the time most people reach out for air conditioners and good old desert coolers to provide some respite. However, there are several reports doing rounds that claim that using air conditioners can lead to an increased spread of novel coronavirus.
Here are the major takeaways from the guidelines
This is why the centre has issued guidelines to shed light on the ideal temperature to operate air conditioners. These guidelines were compiled by the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE) and shared by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD).
What is the ideal temperature for air conditioners at home
As per the guidelines, the air conditioners at home should ideally operate between 24-30 degrees Celsius and the humidity should be between 40-70 per cent. The advisory also states that the rooms should be well ventilated by keeping the windows slightly open and exhaust by natural exfiltration. If an exhaust fan is located nearby, it can be switched on to provide better ventilation
What about desert coolers
The guidelines also advise using evaporative coolers (desert coolers) to combat the heat and soaring temperatures. One can also fit in air filters in these coolers to keep the dust away and maintain hygiene. It is important that your cooler must draw air from outside to ensure good ventilation and windows must be kept open to reduce humidity.
Guidelines for electric fans
Again, even with the usage of electric fans, the windows should be kept open for proper ventilation and exhaust fans, if present nearby, should be switched on for the same.
The issue with central air conditioning system
As per experts, while the window air conditioners which are used at homes are alright, the problem lies with using central cooling. These central air conditioning systems are used in malls, corporate and government offices, hospitals etc.and may lead to an increased chance of spreading the coronavirus to other people in the same building, if one person contracts it. This is why for these outdoor facilities, ventilation with outdoor air is strongly advised.