Building owners and managers have been urged to maintain air quality within the premises of business that have been partially or fully closed due to the restrictions imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“People think they’ll save money on the electricity by switching off the air conditioner. In a humid climate like Bermuda’s this is a recipe for disaster. Insufficient temperature and humidity control can lead to mould growth, which is a health hazard and is expensive to remedy,” Brendan Stones, AirCare general manager, said.

Instead of shutting off the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system completely, AirCare recommends reprogramming thermostats and adjusting temperature set points to avoid unnecessary cost.

“While we recommend leaving your HVAC running, the requirements for a full building are different for an empty building. Ideally you should keep the temperature below 80F and the humidity less than 60 per cent,” Mr Stones said.

The company said the quiet period, while many buildings are mostly closed, is an opportunity for cleaning and maintenance of HVAC systems.

“Now that the shelter in place restrictions have been lifted, we are allowed to offer services,” Mr Stones said. “Our preventive maintenance allows HVAC systems to last longer and perform better.”

AirCare is open for services. Its parts department is open for kerbside pick-up using only a credit or debit card. The number to call is 292-7342 or e-mail info@aircare.bm