Changing our calendars from 2020 to 2021 will not magically make the COVID-19 pandemic disappear, but we know it will end eventually. Past pandemics have taught us this. There will be a time when new cases decline to small numbers and we will be able to once again teach in a classroom packed with students or share a meal as a group without the fear of spreading a deadly virus. While we can’t begin to predict a specific date when these activities might be possible, we can find strength in knowing that things will change eventually.

2020 Hindsight

We can all agree that 2020 has been the decade of years. If we think back to approximately 12 months ago, some of the top stories in the news included the World Cup-winning US Women, the fire at Notre Dame Cathedral, and Hurricane Dorian (yes those things were only last year!).

Before 2020, we usually thought of masks like those worn by children for Halloween, the ability to purchase disinfectant was an afterthought, and science was usually referred to as a class our kids took in school. So what have we learned this year? What do we have to look forward to?

Among the many lessons, we’ve learned are many ways to improve our safety within our workplace. We at CDA are striving hard to make this happen, and we are leaders in this field. You may have read our previous newsletters where we’ve discussed different technologies. Within this article, we will provide an overview to summarize end-of-the-year documents.

We’ve learned that there are quite a few technologies available to purify the air. Filtration is the most common and typically the most effective method for HVAC systems. Other technologies, including irradiation and thermal sterilization, inactivate biological particles in the air without removing them. HVAC systems can also incorporate ionic purifiers, ozone generators, and other devices for sanitizing air.

There is never a “one size fits all” approach to removing viral and other harmful particles from the air. Alternatives and options need to be considered to provide the right answer in each setting. In addition to mitigating harmful particles, some of the options, such as Bi-Polar, further provide the benefit of reduced energy costs.

The primary options for use in buildings today seem to be, Ultraviolet, Bi-Polar and high-performance filtering. Furthermore, there are benefits to increasing the ventilation of “fresh” air in addition to using any of the previous three options.

Save Operating Expenses Through Retro Commisoning

CDA is a certified Commissioning Agent. Our staff is certified under the Association of Energy Engineers and carries a CBCP and AEE. Retro-commissioning is a process that involves an assessment of building systems to ensure they operate correctly, taking into account the original design and specifications, but also addressing any changes in occupancy since construction. Retro-commissioning can be a very cost-effective way to improve building energy efficiency. According to the ENERGY STAR Building Manual by the US Environmental Protection Agency, a retro-commissioning project typically achieves an energy savings of 15% and a payback period of just 0.7 years. Retro-commissioning is characterized as being both a knowledge- and labor-intensive process, where the actual material costs are minimal or zero. However, a retro-commissioning project can also help identify opportunities for building improvements that require more capital, such as retrofits and equipment upgrades.

CDA's Resolutions & Hopes for the New Year

'That the pandemic is eradicated"
"Can we all just get along and back to normal"
That I can take a trip safely somewhere warm and out of state.
To travel to see my family.
To continue to spend more family time even when the world opens back up.
To let go of the past and move forward.
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And now…the reason you scrolled to the end:

Chewie's Cozy Corner

As we approach the end of the year, Chewie has informed us his holiday wish list consists of: more naps more treats, and for Mom to look the other way when Dad tries to slip him a scrap of bacon! 

In addition, he wishes everyone the fullest bowls of holiday cheer. He suggests that in lieu of hugging family and friends, give your 4-legged friends the extra love!