How to Improve Indoor Air Quality in Commercial Buildings
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is no longer just a comfort consideration, it’s a critical factor in workplace health, operational efficiency, and legal compliance. Poor IAQ in commercial buildings can contribute to employee illness, reduced productivity, and even breaches of UK health and safety regulations.
For facilities managers, improving IAQ is both a responsibility and a strategic opportunity. The right HVAC strategy not only ensures cleaner, healthier air but can also reduce energy consumption, lower costs, and enhance a building’s overall performance.
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Why Indoor Air Quality Matters
Health and Wellbeing
Contaminants such as dust and pollen can cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and long-term health issues. In poorly ventilated spaces, carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels can rise, leading to fatigue and reduced cognitive function.
Productivity and Performance
Research consistently shows that better air quality leads to improved concentration and enhanced decision-making ability, which are key drivers for any successful business.
Regulatory Compliance
UK legislation ensures that workplaces have good ventilation and safe working conditions, and failing to maintain IAQ can lead to reputational damage, and potential legal consequences.
Customer and Visitor Experience
For businesses with customer-facing spaces, such as retail stores or hospitality venues, clean and fresh air directly impacts visitor comfort and perception of the brand.
Practical Steps to Improve IAQ in Commercial Buildings
1. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
A neglected HVAC system can become a source of contamination, circulating dust and other pollutants. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning coils, ensures your system operates efficiently while keeping indoor air fresh and safe.
2. Upgrade to High-Efficiency Air Filters
Basic filters trap larger particles but often miss smaller, more harmful contaminants. Consider upgrading to higher filters (if your system supports them) to capture fine particles, bacteria, and even some viruses. This simple change can have a significant impact on IAQ.
3. Ensure Adequate Ventilation Rates
Ventilation is key for diluting indoor pollutants and introducing fresh air. Systems should meet or exceed the recommended air changes per hour (ACH) for your building type. Implementing demand-controlled ventilation allows airflow to be adjusted automatically, improving efficiency without compromising IAQ.
4. Control Humidity Levels
Excess humidity can encourage mould growth, while low humidity can cause discomfort and respiratory irritation. Maintaining an indoor relative humidity between 40%–60% is ideal for both comfort and health.
5. Plan for Seasonal Adjustments
Air quality challenges vary throughout the year. For example, pollen levels peak in spring, while closed windows in winter can trap pollutants indoors. Adapting maintenance schedules and filtration strategies to seasonal conditions helps maintain consistent IAQ.
The Role of a Professional HVAC Partner
Improving IAQ requires ongoing assessments, proactive maintenance, and possibly investment in system upgrades. Partnering with an experienced HVAC provider ensures your approach is tailored to your building’s unique needs and compliance requirements.
At William Austin, we have been helping UK businesses maintain safe, clean, and efficient environments since 1976. Our team provides:
40+ years of experience in the HVAC industry
Maintenance schedules to suit operational needs
Energy-efficient upgrades to improve air quality and reduce costs
Repairing systems that are tailored to your needs and budget
Breathe Easier with William Austin
Clean air is an investment in your people, your business, and your reputation. Whether you manage an office, warehouse, retail space, or educational facility, our team can help you create a healthier indoor environment and keep it that way.
Written by: Will Judd