• With summer arriving, most of us are beginning to start up our air conditioners to beat the heat. But as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a threat to our health and safety, there are concerns about the spread of the virus due to air conditioning systems. There are debates over whether air conditioners spread virus as we are still trying to understand the disease and how it works. The information we have found so far is not absolute, but we’d like to share some information on how to operate air conditioners while being conscious of the pandemic.

Image of two people wearing a mask.

Avoid Using Air Conditioning When COVID-19 Patients are Present

When possible, avoid using air conditioning in facilities with many COVID-19 patients. Disinfect the facility thoroughly and always wear a mask.
A man reading a book on a sofa under an air conditioner.

Avoid Direct Airflow

Avoid direct airflow from air conditioners.
Image of an air conditioner and a remote control.

Lower the Airflow Power

Reduce the spread of infectious aerosol by lowering the power of the air conditioner fan.
A fan turned on and wind flowing from it.

Avoid Using Fans When Possible

Avoid using an air conditioner and fan at the same time.
An open window ventilating indoor air.

Ventilate Whenever Possible

Ventilate often to keep air from recirculating. Simply opening a window is best, but using ventilators to draw fresh air in from outdoors is also effective!
Regularly Clean or Change Filters

Regularly Clean or Change Filters

Clean or change air conditioner filters regularly. Be sure to wear masks and gloves. And don’t forget to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
  • *LG does not claim that these tips are absolutely effective in preventing the spread of COVID-19 or any other viruses

    As we adopt and evolve methods and practices in the HVAC industry to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, we can also adapt how we use our air conditioners in our facilities. Remember these simple tips to keep occupants comfortable this summer while still maintaining sensible practice concerning COVID-19.

    *References

    1. ASHRAE, “ASHRAE Position Document on Infectious Aerosols,” 14 April 2020, https://www.ashrae.org/file%20library/about/position%20documents/pd_infectiousaerosols_2020.pdf

    2. Korea Times, “Can AC Spread Coronavirus? A Thorny Question That Emerges With School Reopening,” 7 May 2020, https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2020/05/119_289141.html

    3. Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare, “COVID-19 Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters Briefing,” 27 May 2020, http://ncov.mohw.go.kr/upload/viewer/skin/doc.html?fn=1590545363041_20200527110923.pdf&rs=/upload/viewer/result/202006/

*Products and solutions may vary according to country and operating conditions.
Please click the 'INQUIRY TO BUY' banner below to contact your local LG office for further information on solutions and products.