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Indoor Air Quality and Filtration Flashcards

7 cards from real HVAC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. What is the primary difference between a HEPA filter and a standard MERV-rated filter?

    Answer: HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles ≥0.3 microns; MERV filters are rated on a different efficiency scale

    True HEPA filters must capture at least 99.97% of airborne particles at the 0.3-micron most-penetrating particle size, a standard not defined by the MERV scale.

  2. Which chemical, commonly off-gassed by new carpets, adhesives, and furniture, is classified as a Group 1 human carcinogen?

    Answer: Formaldehyde

    Formaldehyde, found in pressed wood products, adhesives, and some fabrics, is classified by IARC as a Group 1 (definite) human carcinogen.

  3. What is the recommended minimum outdoor air ventilation rate per person for office spaces according to ASHRAE 62.1?

    Answer: 10 CFM per person

    ASHRAE 62.1 requires a minimum of approximately 17 CFM total per person for offices, but the people component alone is 5 CFM per person plus an area component.

  4. An activated carbon filter is best suited for removing which type of indoor air contaminant?

    Answer: Gaseous pollutants and odors (VOCs)

    Activated carbon adsorbs gaseous pollutants, VOCs, and odors through its highly porous surface structure, but does not effectively capture particles.

  5. What is the purpose of a demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) system?

    Answer: To modulate outdoor air intake based on real-time CO2 or occupancy sensors

    DCV systems use CO2 sensors or occupancy data to increase or reduce outdoor air ventilation rates in response to actual building occupancy, saving energy while maintaining IAQ.

  6. Which filter media type uses an electrostatic charge to attract and capture airborne particles?

    Answer: Electrostatically charged synthetic media filter

    Electrostatically charged synthetic media filters use an embedded static charge to attract particles similarly to a magnet, enhancing capture efficiency beyond mechanical straining alone.

  7. What IAQ issue can result from running a cooling system that removes too much moisture from indoor air in a cold, dry climate during winter?

    Answer: Excessively low relative humidity causing respiratory irritation and static electricity

    Overly dry indoor air (RH below 30%) causes respiratory tract irritation, increased static electricity, and can dry out wood furnishings and building materials.