THE IMPACT OF FILTER PLACEMENT IN AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEMS ON THE BEHAVIOR OF INDOOR CONTAMINANT CONCENTRATION

Abstract

Air filters in air-conditioning systems play a major role in sustaining a healthy indoor environment. The effectiveness of the filter in achieving acceptable indoor air quality depends on its contaminant removal efficiency and the way it is placed within the air-conditioning system. The objective of this paper is to study the impact of filter placement on transient and steady state contaminant concentration. A theoretical single-zone indoor air quality model is utilized. Results indicate that filter placement within the HVAC system relative to the source of contaminant and circulating air streams can have an appreciable impact on indoor contaminant concentration behavior. In order to enhance the overall effectiveness of the air filtration system, it is recommended that HVAC designers evaluate the impact of filter placement on indoor contaminant concentration as part of the filtration system design procedure. General guidelines for filter placement are given as part of the conclusions of this research.