Trane® CleanEffects™ Becomes First Air Cleaner Certified by the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America
The CleanEffects™ air cleaner manufactured by Trane®, a leading global provider of indoor comfort solutions and a brand of Ingersoll Rand, has been announced as the first product of its type to be certified by the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) — following extensive independent research and testing at Airmid Healthgroup.
Why Central Air Filtration Matters
Central forced air systems have the potential to transport biological particulates such as viruses and moulds, as well as allergens such as those derived from house dust mites, animal dander and pollen, from one indoor space to another. As a consequence, effective filtration for the air being moved throughout the system is of fundamental importance to the maintenance of a healthy indoor environment.
Independent Testing at Airmid Healthgroup
A series of studies were conducted at Airmid Healthgroup’s facilities to determine the ability of the product to reduce airborne contaminants and particulate levels. The CleanEffects™ air cleaner was installed into our modified ASHRAE 52.2 test duct, connected to a room-sized environmental testing chamber — a unique test system designed to simulate a central forced air system in a building. Contaminants were serially introduced into the chamber, and air was circulated through the test duct and chamber, with room disturbances carried out to keep particles airborne.
The CleanEffects™ air cleaner was found to have a significant impact on airborne allergens and particulates in both the duct and chamber compared with natural decay.
>99% Reduction in Mould Spores
Airborne Aspergillus niger spores were reduced by greater than 99% in the environmental test chamber.
99.9% Reduction in Influenza A Virus
Airborne Influenza A virus in the chamber was reduced by 99.9% within just 35 minutes of operation.
Restored Efficiency After Cleaning
Accelerated dust-loading tests confirmed the cleaning procedure fully restores performance efficiency.
How Electrostatic Air Cleaners Work — and Stay Effective
Electrostatic air cleaners provide filtration by first charging particles and then capturing the charged particles onto downstream collecting plates. Unlike media-based filters, the collecting plates are not disposable and do not require frequent replacement. However, regular cleaning of the plates is required, as they can lose efficiency over time as they load with dust.
Airmid Healthgroup assessed the impact of cleaning on the CleanEffects™ device using an accelerated loading process to simulate the build-up of dust over time. The device was then cleaned and reassessed post-cleaning, confirming that the cleaning procedure was effective at restoring the device’s original performance efficiency.
Related Testing
About Airmid Healthgroup
Airmid Healthgroup helps clients with products and services related to the built environment to differentiate their customer offerings through health-relevant marketing claims. Clients include Dyson, LG, Procter & Gamble, Shaw Floors, 3M, Stanley Steemer, Fellowes, Samsung, Tarkett and Philips. We create value for clients through collaborative strategies including field research projects, environmental test chamber studies, and licensing our own intellectual property. We specialise in studying the relationship between allergens, viruses, bacteria, moulds and other ultra-fine particles in the air and on surfaces to the spread of illness and disease in buildings — using this knowledge to help make indoor environments as healthy as possible.
About Ingersoll Rand and Trane
Ingersoll Rand (NYSE: IR) advances the quality of life by creating comfortable, sustainable and efficient environments. Our people and our family of brands — including Club Car®, Ingersoll Rand®, Thermo King® and Trane® — work together to enhance the quality and comfort of air in homes and buildings; transport and protect food and perishables; and increase industrial productivity and efficiency. We are a $13 billion global business committed to a world of sustainable progress and enduring results. Trane solutions optimise indoor environments with a broad portfolio of energy-efficient heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems, building and contracting services, parts support and advanced control.
Looking for Independent Air Cleaner Testing?
Contact Airmid Healthgroup to discuss testing and certification requirements for your air cleaning technology.
