Indoor air quality is a growing priority for schools. As expectations for healthier learning environments rise and budgets remain tight, many school districts are exploring air cleaning technology as part of their HVAC upgrades.
The indoor air quality procedure (IAQP), outlined in ASHRAE standard 62.1, can reduce outside air requirements while maintaining and improving healthy air quality. That means large potential cost savings and smaller, more efficient systems.
However, there is a key factor often overlooked: IAQP only works when schools use properly verified air cleaning technologies. Without documentation and compliance, districts risk failed inspections, change orders, delays, and even liability exposure. This guide explains what to look for, what standards and technology requirements matter most, and how to make informed decisions about air cleaning technology for schools.
“IAQ upgrades can improve learning outcomes and mitigate the risk of airborne transmission within educational environments.”
– ASHRAE TC 9.7 Design Guidance for Education Facilities, v2.0
What is Air Cleaning Technology? Why Schools Need It.
Air cleaning technology includes devices and filters that remove contaminants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCS), carbon dioxide, and particulate matter from indoor air. Schools are unique because of high occupancy levels, long operating hours, and the importance of protecting children’s health.
With IAQP, schools can reduce outdoor air intake by using verified air cleaners to maintain healthy indoor air. This not only improves learning environments but also helps lower utility bills and extend equipment life. If implemented in new construction or major renovation projects, using the IAQP can also reduce capital costs.
Key Standards and Compliance to Know
To reduce liability, before selecting equipment, districts and their design teams must confirm that any air cleaning technology meets established standards
It is strongly recommended that school districts require the following testing and certifications for any air cleaning technology under consideration:
- ASHRAE 145.2 or iso 10121-2 testing is required for gas-phase filtration technologies to verify pollutant removal effectiveness.
- Ul 900 certification safeguards filters meet fire safety standards in the international mechanical code and NFPA 90a.
- Ul 2998 certification confirms that electronic air cleaners do not produce harmful byproducts such as ozone.
According to ASHRAE TC 9.7 Design Guidance for Education Facilities, MERV 13 is considered the minimum recommended filter level for IAQ improvement in schools, ensuring better air filtration and risk mitigation. (Source: ASHRAE TC 9.7 Design Guidance for Education Facilities, 2023)
If a manufacturer cannot provide this documentation, risk shifts to the school district and the engineers approving the design.
3 Essential Questions to Ask Before Selecting Air Cleaning Technology
1. Has the device been third party tested to ASHRAE Standard 145.2 or ISO 10121-2?
Look for testing to ASHRAE 145.2 or ISO 10121-2. Without it, pollutant removal performance cannot be verified.
Tip: Always request certificates of compliance up front. If the equipment fails post-construction testing, it may be too late to correct without major disruption.
2. Is the air cleaning device UL 900 certified?
UL 900 ensures that the filter meets fire safety standards required by the International Mechanical Code, NFPA 90A, and local building codes. Any technology without this certification is a compliance risk.
3. Does the device comply with UL 2998?
Electronic air cleaners must certify that they do not produce harmful byproducts such as ozone. Ask for written verification of UL 2998 compliance before choosing or specifying equipment.
Comparing Air Cleaning Technology
Not all air cleaning devices are equal. Below is a comparison of common approaches:
| Factor | Sorbent Filters | Molecular Filters | Other Electronic Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compliance Documentation | Typically Available | Typically Available | Often incomplete |
| Third-Party Testing | Verified to ASHRAE 145.2 | Verified to ASHRAE 145.2 | Frequently unverified |
| Ease of Installation | Central system or classroom systems | Classroom-specific | Classroom-specific |
| IAQP Support | Strong for reduced outdoor air | Limited | Inconsistent |
| Pollutant Coverage | Broad VOC and CO2 coverage | May require carbon filter for full VOC coverage; no CO₂ | VOC coverage is often incomplete or unverified |
| Filter Replacement Frequency | Every 2 years | Every 12 months (with smart in-room monitoring and controls) |
Replace carbon filter every 1–3 months |
| Size and Design | Larger footprint | Compact | Compact, but may require frequent maintenance |
| Maintenance | Low frequency, predictable | Annual changes needed | Frequent filter changes and monitoring |
Sources: Based on publicly available manufacturer specifications and third-party testing results. For more information, see ASHRAE Standard 145.2-2016.
This overview highlights that while multiple air cleaning technologies exist, not all provide the same level of IAQP support or compliance assurance. Additionally, some technologies may place added burdens on school maintenance teams due to frequent filter replacements and ongoing upkeep.
Risks if Schools Choose the Wrong Filtration Technology
Selecting the wrong air cleaning technology impacts more than indoor air quality. The consequences can cascade through entire projects:
- Compliance failures with ASHRAE 62.1 or mechanical code requirements
- Construction delays caused by failed testing after installation
- Added costs from redesigns, change orders, and rework
- Liability concerns if harmful byproducts or poor air quality have an impact on student health
For school leaders, the safest path is to demand full compliance documentation from vendors before specifying equipment.
How Schools Move Forward with Confidence
Districts do not need to navigate IAQP requirements alone. The best approach is to:
- Use a checklist based on ASHRAE 145.2, UL 900, and UL 2998 compliance
- Require third-party testing data in vendor proposals
- Partner with trusted HVAC experts who can verify claims and design systems that balance air quality with energy savings
By raising the bar on accountability, schools can achieve both healthier learning environments and operational efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Air cleaning technology is central to any IAQP strategy. But success depends on selecting systems that are tested, certified, and documented. Without compliance, the risks to budgets, schedules, and student health are too great.
Havtech partners with school districts across the Mid-Atlantic to evaluate and integrate qualified air cleaning technologies that meet ASHRAE and code requirements.
This guide is informational only. School districts and design teams should review all claims against recognized ASHRAE and UL standards before specifying equipment.
About the author
Tim Dorman
Innovative Solutions Director, Havtech
