How to Improve Indoor Air Quality in the Hospitality Industry

As restaurants and hotels begin to ease out of COVID-19 restrictions, many businesses are looking for ways to increase traffic while keeping their patrons as safe as possible. And while indoor air quality may have been a luxury in the past, we are now seeing it as critical to the well-being of both our loved ones and our livelihood. The ability to cleanse the indoor air of pathogens, allergens and other dangerous contaminants is now the top priority for most of us. With new research indicating the novel coronavirus can remain airborne for longer than previously expected, this concern has grown, and solutions such as bipolar ionization have advanced to the forefront of these discussions. 

So, what is bipolar ionization?

Bipolar ionization is a process that eliminates viruses and halts the spread of contaminated droplets that can cause viral outbreaks. When an infected individual coughs or sneezes, contaminated droplets are released into the air and onto surfaces. Through bipolar ionization, ions are attracted to these pathogens — seeking them out and, ultimately, neutralizing them so that the transmission of airborne viruses can be prevented. 

Long popular in European countries, bipolar ionization first arrived in the United States in the 1970s as a tool to control pathogens in food manufacturing. Most recently, it has been an effective air treatment used during the SARS outbreak of 2004, as well as more recent outbreaks of MERS, norovirus, and strains of influenza. Recent advances in technology have made it a more cost-effective and viable option for improving air quality in large facilities like hotels, restaurants, food service facilities, and convention centers. 

What are the benefits of bipolar ionization in hotels and restaurants?

Bipolar ionization can reduce 99.9% of microbes in the air within a matter of minutes, making it extremely effective against biological contamination and other dangerous air pollutants. In general, this technology offers many benefits for the hospitality industry:

• Bacteria and viruses are reduced. Bipolar ions destroy the cell membrane of pathogens such as bacteria and viruses and remove them from the air. 

• Odors are eliminated. Bipolar ions have the added benefit of breaking down odors at the source and eliminating them, which means facilities can use less harsh chemicals to mask unpleasant smells.

• VOCs are reduced. Volatile organic compounds from dangerous chemicals such as cleaning products, pesticides, paints, mold, and mildew are removed from the air.

• Dust and mold particles are eliminated. By bonding with contaminants such as mold and dust particles, bipolar ions cause allergens to gain mass, fall to the nearest surface, and return to the filter.

• Static electricity is diminished. Bipolar ionization naturally balances the air and eliminates static charges.

• Energy costs are reduced. Bipolar ionization can reduce the need for heating and cooling of ambient air by recycling conditioned, purified air — dramatically reducing the amount of incoming air required for freshness. With this technology, energy costs are typically reduced by approximately 50 percent.

READ MORE: 4 Considerations for Containing Viruses in Buildings 

How can I improve the air quality in my hotel or restaurant?

As businesses begin to re-open, it’s important to consider how best to improve the indoor air quality for the safety of your employees and patrons. Incorporating proper sanitizing and disinfecting technology can greatly improve peace of mind and overall experience for everyone who enters your facility. The best way to implement effective air quality control is by contacting your local bipolar ionization and air filtration experts. They can work with you to develop the best commercial-grade solution for your unique business and ensure that the indoor air is free of harmful pathogens. 

Air and Ventilation Systems in Memphis, TN | Bedson REPS

Bedson REPS is a leading provider of commercial air systems for large facilities. Our team of experts services areas across the Mid-South including much of Tennessee (Memphis and Nashville); northern Mississippi (Oxford); Arkansas (Little Rock), Alabama (Birmingham), and Oklahoma. They pair industry knowledge with advanced technology to help you achieve clean, efficient, and safe air quality within your organization. From air filtration to ventilation and purification systems, we are here to help you keep your building safe with infection control technology and solutions. 

Contact our team today to get started.