Panther Valley Elementary School recently conducted a study of its indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and found that its overall scores were in the low 80s. Find out how improved IEQ created a healthier and more comfortable learning environment for students and staff.
Using AWAIR sensors, Panther Valley Elementary in Nesquehoning, PA found that the overall IEQ of the school was fair to good, but the ventilation rates, light levels, CO2 thresholds, noise, and thermal comfort levels could be better. To improve these conditions, the school renovated a 780 sq. ft., third-grade classroom ceiling, which houses 27-32 students and is in use nearly eight hours a day.
To address these issues, the school installed ULTIMA Lay-in & Tegular high light-reflective ceiling panels from Armstrong Ceilings in the classroom. These smooth-textured panels are washable, impact- and scratch-resistant, and have a non-directional visual for easy installation. In addition, an in-ceiling, STRATACLEAN IQ Air Filtration System was installed in the classroom to improve indoor air quality. This system captures and removes 90% of airborne contaminants, allergens, and other particulates using proven MERV 13 filtration.
The installation of these new systems had a significant impact on the IEQ of the school. Combined with new LED lighting, the ULTIMA ceiling panels improved light reflectance, with levels more than doubling. The space was brighter and improved visual comfort by reducing eye strain and glare. In addition, the Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) of the ceiling increased from .55 to .75, meaning that the new panels absorb 75% of the sound that hits them, reducing extra noise and making it easier for occupants to comprehend and concentrate.
The air filtration system also had a positive impact in the classroom. The installation of the STRATACLEAN system, which is independent from the HVAC system, resulted in increased air changes, reduced exposure to airborne contaminants and decreased particulate matter and CO2 levels.
“I know how important indoor air quality is for both myself and my students. I’m a severe asthmatic and I haven’t had any episodes since the start of school and the room renovation.”
“I know how important indoor air quality is for both myself and my students. I’m a severe asthmatic and I haven’t had any episodes since the start of school and the room renovation.”
- Tori Koerbler, Third Grade Teacher
“Improved indoor air quality is especially important since we have no full-blown HVAC system in the building. The cleaner, brighter environment definitely has an effect on how kids learn.”
“Improved indoor air quality is especially important since we have no full-blown HVAC system in the building. The cleaner, brighter environment definitely has an effect on how kids learn.”
- Scott Fisher, Director of Buildings and Grounds
2X
Increased light levels (more than doubled from 116 lux to 253 lux).
74%
Amount of sound that the ceiling panels absorb.
1.5 ACH
Added an additional air change, reducing exposure to airborne particulates while decreasing particulate matter and lowering C02 levels.
2X
Increased in light levels (more than doubled from 116 lux to 253 lux).
75%
Amount of sound that the ceiling panels absorb.
1.5 ACH
Added an additional air change, reducing exposure to airborne particulates while decreasing particulate matter and lowering C02 levels.
These ceiling tiles have gasketed edges that reduce air leakage through the ceiling in a space up to 4x more compared to other tiles.
Captures airborne contaminants, allergens, smoke and particulates to create cleaner, healthier indoor air quality using MERV 13 filtration.
These ceiling tiles have gasketed edges that reduce air leakage through the ceiling in a space up to 4x more compared to other tiles.
Our healthier spaces collection can help achieve the right balance for your space.
Uses scientifically proven UV-C air-cleaning technology, and recirculates clean air back into the room.
Captures airborne contaminants, allergens, smoke and particulates to create cleaner, healthier indoor air quality using MERV 13 filtration.
These ceiling tiles provide excellent acoustic performance, light reflectance, sustainability, and durability.
Captures airborne contaminants, allergens, smoke and particulates to create cleaner, healthier indoor air quality using MERV 13 filtration.
These ceiling tiles provide excellent acoustic performance, light reflectance, sustainability, and durability.
Uses scientifically proven UV-C air-cleaning technology, and recirculates clean air back into the room.
Our healthier spaces collection can help achieve the right balance for your space.
Uses scientifically proven UV-C air-cleaning technology, and recirculates clean air back into the room.
Our healthier spaces collection can help achieve the right balance for your space.
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