Protect Your System from Dust, Dirt and Debris
Many homeowners are looking to renovate during the pandemic. Those working from home and sheltering in place are taking this opportunity to add new fixtures and features to their property. However, remodeling your home in the middle of a pandemic comes with its fair share of pros and cons. You might have more time on your hands these days to finish the project, but COVID-19 presents new health risks that may alter your plans. You need to make sure your existing HVAC system can handle any changes to your home without increasing your risk of infection.
Use these tips to renovate your home safely.
Turn Off the HVAC System While Working (If Possible)
Experts usually recommend turning off the HVAC unit in the work zone or during working hours to limit the spread of dust and debris. If you continue working with the unit running, the ducts will likely fill up with all kinds of harmful debris. The HVAC unit may then distribute these particles throughout the air inside your home, reducing the quality of the air. This could also lead to a range of respiratory problems that may make you and your loved ones more susceptible to COVID-19.
Turning off the unit also prevents it from pulling dust and dirt into the ducts.
Not having the A/C on during the day may sound unthinkable, especially if you’re working in hot weather. Try to complete as much of the work outside in the shade to prevent the spread of dust and other airborne particles.
Seal Off the Construction Zone
If you don’t have the option of shutting off your air conditioning unit, it’s best to seal off the construction zone from the ducts in your system. Use plastic tarps and shields to divide up the space, so you don’t have to worry about contaminating your ductwork. Otherwise, dust and dirt will likely clog the system, reducing the air quality.
Sealing off the construction zone also limits the amount of shared air. If you are working with a friend or contractor, use plastic dividers to reduce your chances of infection. Different crew members can complete various tasks at the same time without occupying the same space or breathing the same air.
Preparing for Contractors
If you plan on hiring a team of contractors to finish your project, try to limit their access to the space as much as possible. All crew members should wear face masks when occupying the space. Provide hand sanitizer, so they don’t have to use your sink to wash their hands. Designate a separate entrance to reduce interpersonal contact. Limit their access to just one restroom, so you don’t have to share a toilet. Screen incoming crew members for fever and other flu-like symptoms associated with the virus.
Before hiring a team, make sure they have everything they need to complete the job. They shouldn’t have to borrow your tools or share objects to finish their work.
Keep your family members away from the construction site to reduce the chances of infection. Clean off all surfaces after the construction crew leaves.
Reconfiguring Your HVAC System
You also need to make sure your existing HVAC system can cover any new additions to your home. You may need to add another unit, more ductwork, or upgrade your current system. If your HVAC system cannot reach certain areas, you may have trouble keeping your home cool in the summer or warm in the winter. This could also raise your utility costs substantially.
Contact the professionals at A-1 Guaranteed to have your system inspected by a professional after you finish your home improvement project. We will inspect the system for damage and make sure it can reach the new additions to your home.
