Rethinking Marine Vessel Air Quality - Part Seven
Combining more than two decades in air quality research and improvement, the Kanberra Group has been working closely with various areas of the marine industry to better understand the needs of boat owners, yacht captains and crews and provide detailed programmatic solutions to enhance marine experience and vessel maintenance. Our goal has been to introduce these solutions one at a time in hopes of providing a broader knowledge base on Yacht Air Quality (YAQ) to the readers.
As mentioned in a past issue, it is often accepted among yacht owners that the air inside cabin interiors will always have a certain aroma, a by-product of being out on the water. There is also the accepted existence of mold and mildew, and the inevitable labor that comes with removing it from the yachts after storage and in-between use. Seafarers believe this is the way it has always been, and so it will always be. Today there are many technologies and systems available to help optimize and maintain YAQ. A variety of effective techniques and methods for improving cabin air and interiors not only enhance the well-being of passengers, but also improves the maintenance of the craft itself. There is no need to re-invent the wheel for YAQ. Many air quality solutions have been successfully utilized by the Kanberra Group on US Navy ships and other large vessels, as well as commercial buildings and hospitals. These solutions are easily adaptable to any size marine vessel.
Kanberra Gel & Filtration
Already a staple in the Mega-yacht industry, Kanberra Gel has been making waves in many marine-related areas, as well as RV and automotive storage. A semi-solid, biodegradable gel composition made with pharmaceutical-grade Australian Tea Tree Oil, Kanberra Gel dissipates into the air to break down mildew, molds, and viruses at the molecular level. Tea Tree Oil is known around the globe as a natural antiseptic most commonly used topically. Thanks to the formula in Kanberra Gel, those same antiseptic and antifungal properties can now be realized though an airborne release. Touted as being able to clean the air while saving money on costly upkeep, Kanberra Gel effectively eliminates mechanical and upholstery damaging mold and odors while blanketing the cabin with a protective vapor enhancing overall cabin air quality and comfort. You can visit www.kanberragel.com for more details.
Air filters in your heating and cooling system are an essential component in establishing and maintaining YAQ. The first rule of any air quality management program is “source control.” Remove the contaminants and you improve the conditions. Proper filtration allows for the control and removal of most of those contaminants, thus improving the quality of air flowing through the coil which in turn assists in coil maintenance, reducing ductwork debris accumulation and improving air flow. The latter translates into less strain on the air handler resulting in higher energy efficiency.
Rethinking Marine Vessel Air Quality - Part Six
David Levesque
Throughout the last 5 articles, we at The Kanberra Group have been sharing our experiences and knowledge on the topic of Yacht Air Quality (YAQ). Combining more than 20 years in indoor air quality research and improvement, the Kanberra Group has been working closely with various areas of the marine industry to better understand the needs of boat owners, yacht captains and crews and provide detailed programmatic solutions to enhance marine experience and vessel maintenance. It is commonly accepted among yacht owners that the air inside cabin interiors will always have a certain aroma, a by-product of being out on the water. There is also the, again accepted, existence of mold and mildew, and the inevitable labor that comes with removing it from the yachts after storage and in-between use. Seafarers believe this is the way it has always been, and so it will always be. Simply not true. There is no need to re-invent the wheel for YAQ. Many air quality solutions have been successfully utilized by The Kanberra Group on US Navy ships and other large vessels, as well as commercial buildings and hospitals. These solutions are easily adaptable to any size marine vessel.
Already a staple in the Mega-yacht industry, Kanberra Gel has been making waves in many marine-related areas, as well as RV and automotive storage, hospitality industry, health and fitness, real estate, pet stores and hardware stores.
We had discussed how air filters in your heating and cooling system are an essential component in establishing and maintaining YAQ. The first rule of any air quality management program is “source control.” Remove the contaminants and you improve the conditions. Proper filtration allows for the control and removal of most of those contaminants, thus improving the quality of air flowing through the coil which in turn assists in coil maintenance, reducing ductwork debris accumulation and improving air flow. Kanberra Filters are available through www.KanberraGel.com.
In one of the previous articles we had discussed in detail how in the indoor air quality industry we pay special attention to VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds) and how to control them. VOC’s are emitted from a variety of materials including housekeeping and maintenance products. At The Kanberra Group, we recommend performing general household cleaning using a revolutionary cleaning product called Activeion. More information on Activeion can be obtained by calling The Kanberra Group.
In another article we had focused on coil maintenance. Microbial growth on a coil can create a “Bio-film,” or membrane that essentially blankets the fins, eating away at the cooling coil over time and decreasing the amount of air passing through the system. Maintenance and repair can add up to high costs for the boat owner. At The Kanberra Group we utilize an advanced enzyme cleaner and post-cleaning treatment which is much safer for the boat owner and gentler on the system. Additional information on coil maintenance can be obtained by contacting The Kanberra Group.
Our last article addressed the ages-old challenge of off-season storage. No one cares more about your investment than you do. You certainly work hard to protect your vessel during the season, so why not give her the best care possible during storage? We trust you follow or pay someone to follow a strict program of winterization, however inevitably you will have some mold and odors come spring. Microorganisms will take residence in your boats’ canvas, upholstery, cushions and carpeting for the duration of winter. During the unfailing thaw in January/February, these microorganisms will come out to play. Throughout our travels and discussions we know the most common weapon used in the fight against off-season microbial growth is the hanging moisture bag. What we have learned, and heard, is these only provide some relief. Removing the moisture is important; however these bags do not remove the mold and bacteria spores currently present in the fabrics, upholstery and canvas, not to mention the bilge, holding tank and forward/rear compartments. This is where Kanberra Gel has provided a much-needed solution to the marine industry.
Many storage yards across the Northeast, Great Lakes, the Chesapeake region and many others around the world have incorporated Kanberra Gel into their winterization programs. A canister of Kanberra Gel placed in the vessel with all cabin doors, cabinets and lockers left open will provide protection for the duration of storage. In an enclosed environment the Kanberra Gel vapor will blanket the cabin areas, penetrate the canvas, upholstery, cushions and carpeting and eliminate and control any microorganisms thus ensuring an easier spring clean-up.
These past few years we have seen tremendous growth for The Kanberra Group in not just the marine industry but also in the hospitality industry, independent pharmacies, hardware stores, pet boutiques, automotive industry, real estate and health food markets. We have taken on hundreds of new retailers and distributors and exhibited at various select shows both in and outside the country. The awareness of the benefits of Kanberra Gel seems to be accelerating by the minute with calls and e-mails coming in from all over the world.
In the past couple of years, The Kanberra Group has expanded its name in the marine industry with such offerings as improved filtration, integrated medical-grade air purification, in-line air duct purifiers and complimentary products to our very popular Kanberra Gel line. We have also recently launched the Kanberra Wipes. Like our gel and spray, Kanberra Wipes feature an all-natural
proprietary blend Tea Tree Oils and other essential oils in a convenient
surface wipe. Kanberra Wipes are infused with the natural antiseptic and
antifungal properties of Tea Tree Oil and other oils to attack bacteria and mold
on contact and neutralize associated odors with no chemicals including fragrances or perfumes. Safe around kids and pets, the wipes have
countless uses — in the home, car, boat, travel and more. For more information on Kanberra Wipes, contact the Kanberra Group.
Have a great winter!
KANBERRA GEL: Clean Air Without Chemicals
E.L.
The hairs inside my nostrils twitched in anticipation, but they detected nothing. Nothing? Mold is a longtime foe aboard Land’s End, my 1935 wooden Crocker ketch. So when an old-fashioned print advertisement for mold-and-mildew assassin Kanberra Gel caught my eye, I perked up. It’ll never work, I fretted, glancing around the main saloon, gazing woefully at cushions and pillows I faithfully haul off the boat each fall and launder each winter. Now it was spring, and I’d dragged every sweet-smelling thing aboard again, but with fading optimism that by September, all would stay fresh as a daisy. But I learned that the polymer-based Kanberra includes tea tree oil, which attacks airborne mold spores and bacterial growth and actually breaks them down.
Note: Kanberra Gel isn’t a deodorizer. The proof that it’s working isn’t the scent of pine or lemon or fresh linen; it’s nothing but clean air. That’s the point, says product developer David Levesque. Levesque, who’s worked in indoor-filtration and air-purifier systems for clients ranging from the U.S. Navy to the healthcare and hospitality industries, devised the product after “drinking lots of rum on a hiking trip.” His first foray into the marine industry was via the megayacht market, and he struck a nerve. The product is available at coastal chandleries
and on line. Any sailor can relate to the rum-drinking bit, so I gave
it a go. Sold in self-dispensing jars ranging in volume from two to
eight ounces, the gel is easily distributed belowdecks. Eight ounces, enough for a boat of about 40 feet, lasts for two to three months, and that period can be extended with each reapplication. The verdict? After placing it in the saloon and shutting Land’s End up tight, I gleefully admit—it does work, and it keeps working. For more about this natural gel, log on to the product’s website www.kanberragel.com.
Rethinking Marine Vessel Air Quality - Part Three
David Levesque
As mentioned in the previous blogs, combining two decades in air quality research and improvement, the Kanberra Group has begun to work closely with various areas of the marine industry to better understand the needs of boat owners, yacht captains and crews and provide detailed programmatic solutions to enhance marine experience and vessel maintenance. It has been our goal to introduce these solutions one at a time in hopes of providing a broader knowledge base on Yacht Air Quality (YAQ) to the readers.
As mentioned in the last article, it is often accepted among yacht owners that the air inside cabin interiors will always have a certain aroma, a by-product of being out on the water. There is also the accepted existence of mold and mildew, and the inevitable labor that comes with removing it from the yachts after storage and in-between use. Seafarers believe this is the way it has always been, and so it will always be. Today there are many technologies and systems available to help optimize and maintain YAQ. A variety of effective techniques and methods for improving cabin air and interiors not only enhance the well-being of passengers, but also improves the maintenance of the craft itself. There is no need to re-invent the wheel for YAQ. Many air quality solutions have been successfully utilized by the Kanberra Group on US Navy ships and other large vessels, as well as commercial buildings and hospitals. These solutions are easily adaptable to any size marine vessel.
Already a staple in the Mega-yacht industry, Kanberra Gel has been making waves in many marine-related areas, as well as RV and automotive storage. A semi-solid, biodegradable gel composition made with pharmaceutical-grade Australian Tea Tree Oil, Kanberra Gel dissipates into the air to break down mildew, molds, and viruses at the molecular level. Tea Tree Oil is known around the globe as a natural antiseptic most commonly used topically. Thanks to the formula in Kanberra Gel, those same antiseptic and antifungal properties can now be realized though an airborne release. Touted as being able to clean the air while saving money on costly upkeep, Kanberra Gel effectively eliminates mechanical and upholstery damaging mold and odors while blanketing the cabin with a protective vapor enhancing overall cabin air quality and comfort. You can visit www.kanberragel.com for more details.
Air filters in your heating and cooling system are an essential component in establishing and maintaining YAQ. The first rule of any air quality management program is “source control”. Remove the contaminants and you improve the conditions. Proper filtration allows for the control and removal of most of those contaminants, thus improving the quality of air flowing through the coil which in turn assists in coil maintenance, reducing ductwork debris accumulation and improving air flow. The latter translates into less strain on the air handler resulting in higher energy efficiency. Kanberra Group’s exclusive 3-ply antimicrobial filter offers distinct advantages and costs less than pleated filters that can be purchased in discount outlets. With a unique 3-ply construction, Kanberra Filters allow particles to load throughout the depth of the media, from large to small particles without clogging the first layer and reducing air flow. The Kanberra Filters also have an internal wire frame which results in a better fit within the filter rack. This alone reduces bypass found with most cardboard frame filters. Kanberra Filters feature an antimicrobial treatment which reduces airborne microorganisms by up to 86.5% in one pass of air. Kanberra Filters are available through www.KanberraGel.com.
Rethinking Marine Vessel Air Quality
David Levesque
It is often accepted among yacht owners that the air inside cabin interiors always has a certain aroma, a by-product of being out on the water. There is also the accepted existence of mold and mildew, and the inevitable labor that comes with removing it from the yachts after storage and in-between use. Seafarers believe this is the way it has always been, and so it will always be. Today there are many technologies and systems available to help optimize and maintain yacht air quality (YAQ). A variety of effective techniques and methods for improving cabin air and interiors not only enhance the well-being of passengers, but also improves the maintenance of the craft itself. There is no need to re-invent the wheel for YAQ. Many air quality solutions have been successfully utilized on US Navy ships and other large vessels on the water today as well as commercial buildings and hospitals. These solutions are easily adaptable to any size marine vessel. The Kanberra Group, combining more than two decades in air quality research and improvement, had begun to work closely with various areas of the marine industry several years ago to better understand the needs of boat owners, yacht captains and crews and provide detailed programmatic solutions to enhance marine experience and vessel maintenance.
Already a staple in the Mega-Yacht industry, Kanberra Gel has been making waves in many marine-related areas, as well as RV and automotive storage. A semi-solid, biodegradable gel composition made with pharmaceutical-grade Australian Tea Tree Oil, Kanberra Gel dissipates into the air to break down mildew, molds, and viruses at the molecular level. Tea Tree Oil is known around the globe as a natural antiseptic most commonly used topically. Thanks to the formula in Kanberra Gel, those same antiseptic and antifungal properties can now be realized though an airborne release. This completely natural gel disperses droplets of oil which are then circulated around the vessel. There are no synthetic perfumes or chlorine bleach, just a natural eucalyptus and lemon scent. Touted as being able to clean the air while saving money on costly upkeep, Kanberra Gel effectively eliminates mechanical and upholstery damaging mold and odors while blanketing the cabin with a protective vapor enhancing overall cabin air quality and comfort. Kanberra Gel is currently in use worldwide and is receiving rave reviews from captains, crews and vessel owners who attest it to be a superior alternative to chemical-based products on the market due to its long-lasting performance, ease of use and all-natural properties. Kanberra Gel is packaged in sealed, drip-free plastic containers that are placed either within a yacht’s air handling units, or simply out in the open. In air handling systems, Kanberra Gel continually works as an anti-microbial and anti-fungal agent, killing infecting organisms within the air stream, thus protecting HVAC components such as fan coil units and filters from mildew and mold growth. In testing, Kanberra Gel was shown to remain effective for up to 45 days or more making it ideal for monthly maintenance programs. Because Kanberra Gel offers superior protection against mold, its health benefits are obvious. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) all molds can produce allergens that can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, sinus ailments, and other respiratory problems. Kanberra Gel comes in 2, 4, 8, 16 and 32-oz packages.
Small Boat Storage
Storage of any vessel poses a laundry list of issues. Dampness and temperature fluctuations inside a boat provide a permanent breeding ground for mold and fungus. The airborne spores attack and feed on cellulose and other organic material in the boat, which also causes bad odors. For storage, simply remove the lid and place the Kanberra Gel container on the cabin floor. All interior hatches, cabinets, doors and stowage spaces in the cabin should be left open to ensure the active vapor from Kanberra Gel can reach all areas. Leave Kanberra Gel to work for at least three weeks during storage. The effects should last around 2-3 months. Vaporization will cease if the contents freeze. The process will begin again as soon as the temperature allows Kanberra Gel to thaw. One 4 ounce container of Kanberra Gel is enough for a boat up to 12 feet. One 8 ounce container is enough for a boat up to 40 feet. It is a good idea to place a 2 ounce container of Kanberra Gel in the toilet and cockpit stowage areas.
Kanberra Gel is currently available at select retailers and distributors and the list is growing to include chandleries all around the Great Lakes. You can also visit www.kanberragel.com for more details.
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