AHR Expo, the show for HVAC&R industry professionals, saw a lot of traffic, especially for the first couple of days. Everywhere you turned, people were discussing air quality and VOCs. Since both are becoming such an issue, “source control” was a buzz word uttered by many attendants and exhibitors. Specifically, the term was referred to as a way to minimize the sources of VOCs, particularly in building materials, furnishings and coatings. Since these VOCs are toxic, ventilation rates need to account for their presence. Building automation was also a common theme at the show, as systems integrators brought forth new products to improve connectivity and efficiency in building operations. One such product was the IEQ monitor from BAPI, which is able to sense VOCs. Home automation was another popular theme, including zone control and smart appliances. Web-based devices are also arising within the industry for energy efficiency and at-home monitoring so that power usage may be tracked while residents are away from home.
Tags: iAQ, Source Control, VOCs