Did you know that some studies have estimated that the indoor air quality (IAQ) of commercial buildings can be 3-4 times as poor as the outside air? Many business owners are surprised to learn that the air inside their buildings is often worse than outdoor air pollution. What’s in your ductwork may be contributing more than you think.
Why is indoor air quality important in commercial spaces?
Indoor air quality in commercial spaces affects employee health, comfort, and productivity. Poor air can lead to headaches, allergies, fatigue, and increased sick days. Clean, well-ventilated air supports better focus, reduces absenteeism, and helps businesses meet health and safety standards, creating a healthier and more efficient work environment.
The reason so many commercial buildings have low indoor air quality today is because they are designed to be energy efficient and have tightly sealed construction. However, the drawback to this is that it prevents the circulation of fresh air. Tightly sealed doors and windows along with excellent insulation are great for energy efficiency but at the cost of increasing the number of pollutants inside. Air duct cleaning this summer can significantly improve airflow and IAQ.
Depending on the type of commercial property you own, poor indoor air quality can create uncomfortable and unhealthy environments that affect anyone who works inside, lives inside, or even visits the building. Here’s why commercial indoor air quality in Winder, GA is so important and the solutions we offer to combat it.
How VOCs Affect Indoor Air Quality in Commercial Buildings
Commonly referred to as VOCs, these are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids and are among the most common airborne pollutants in commercial spaces. VOCs include things such as paint, paint thinner, cleaning compounds, disinfectants, smoke, pesticides, aldehydes, acetone, aerosols, formaldehyde, and more. These compounds can contribute to illnesses in the people who live, work, and visit your commercial buildings.
Air filtration and air purifier systems work with your HVAC system to eliminate airborne contaminants before they reach you. We can help you decide which type of air filtration or purifying system is right for your home. These systems are designed to remove or neutralize airborne contaminants, reducing the frequency of health issues and improving indoor air quality.
The Impact of High Humidity on Commercial Indoor Air Quality
High humidity is a contributing factor to indoor air quality issues and we have that in abundance here in Georgia where high humidity causes issues year-round. Not only is high humidity uncomfortable for a building’s inhabitants, but it can also contribute to building damage, equipment failures, and the growth and mold and mildew. In fact, humidity levels of 60% and higher are a leading cause of sick building syndrome because it allows mold and mildew to grow uncontrollably.
To combat humidity, we offer dehumidifier options that can balance indoor humidity levels. In areas where humidity is so high such as ours, improving indoor air quality requires skilled technicians who can install air quality systems and provide other solutions to balance indoor humidity without causing a drop in the building’s energy efficiency.
Why Regular HVAC Filter Changes Matter in Commercial Spaces
Commercial HVAC systems are complex pieces of equipment. When their filters aren’t changed regularly, all the contaminants in the air will clog up the filter and eventually make their way into the working parts of the HVAC systems. Cleaner air from better indoor air quality also reduces strain on these systems.
Top Indoor Air Quality Services for Businesses
Poor indoor air quality is a huge problem for businesses. Ensure that everyone is comfortable in your commercial space with the best services in Winder. The best thing you can do for your commercial space is to have a professional service your systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Why is indoor air quality (IAQ) so important in commercial spaces?
Answer: Good IAQ is essential because poor air can lead to health problems such as headaches, respiratory irritation, fatigue and decreased concentration among employees or customers. Over time, this can increase absenteeism and reduce overall well being.
Question: What problems arise when IAQ in a commercial building is neglected?
Answer: When IAQ is neglected, pollutants and allergens (like dust, mold spores, volatile organic compounds, etc.) can accumulate, leading to sick building symptoms, worse health, and lower comfort. Also, high humidity can promote mold and mildew growth, worsening air quality.
Question: How does IAQ affect productivity and comfort in commercial workplaces?
Answer: Clean, well ventilated air helps occupants feel better, stay alert, and concentrate more, boosting productivity. Poor air quality, by contrast, can cause fatigue, irritation, and discomfort, which can impair performance and morale.
Question: What role do HVAC systems and maintenance play in ensuring good IAQ for commercial spaces?
Answer: HVAC systems regulate ventilation, humidity, and filtration, if filters are not changed regularly or systems are poorly maintained, contaminants build up, degrading IAQ. Regular servicing and proper installation by professionals are key to maintaining healthy indoor air.
Question: What steps can building owners or managers take to improve IAQ in a commercial building?
Answer: They can ensure regular HVAC maintenance and filter changes, control humidity (e.g. with dehumidifiers), employ adequate ventilation, minimize sources of indoor pollution (like certain materials or chemicals), and monitor air quality to maintain a healthy indoor environment.
Contact the experts at American Comfort Heating and Cooling for quality services. Bringing Comfort to America, One Home at a Time.
