Maintaining a high level of indoor air quality in the workplace is an important way to boost productivity, keep employees happy and healthy, and keep your HVAC system working well all at the same time. Indoor air quality in the work space is more important than some people realize. Beyond keeping your work space comfortable, high indoor air quality can prevent drops in productivity. It is estimated the bad indoor air quality in the workplace can cause a reduction of productivity by up to 30%. So, this winter, use these tips to avoid air quality problems and to get the most out of your heating & air conditioning system for years to come.
Boosting Indoor Air Quality in the Workplace
Of all the ways to improve indoor air quality in the workplace, the most important is simply to be mindful of the pollutants that get into the air in the first place. Chemicals that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be asthma attack triggers are one common culprit. So are animals that spread hair and dander, and even general clutter and dust. The more you keep your work space clean, the better indoor air quality you will have in the workplace.
When it comes to maintaining your HVAC system itself, the most important component for maintaining high indoor air quality in the workplace is the air filter. Air filters should be changed frequently, as often as every month in some cases. You should also make sure your filters are fitted correctly, and that there are not any issues with airflow in your HVAC system that could prevent air from reaching the filters, or allow it to stagnate in one place.
Finally, you can take steps to control the humidity in your office or commercial space. High humidity can cause a few different issues with your HVAC, one of which is reduced air quality in the workplace. Humid air traps more contaminating particles, and so makes it more difficult for filters to keep the air clean. On the other hand, air that is too dry can spread disease and cause respiratory issues.
Embrace New Filter Technology
Perhaps the most effective way to approach indoor air quality in the workplace is to look beyond the traditional filters that most businesses use. Today, there are new air filters available that trap smaller particles at much higher levels. Other systems include technology such as ultraviolet light to kill germs and other pathogens, as well as humidity control, and other useful features.
When looking for an effective air filter, you should check the MERV (or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) as well as other efficiency ratings. Different filters are more suited for different kinds of contaminants, so think about your needs and the size of the particles involved. Finally, an electrostatic filter can boost the indoor air quality in your workplace significantly. Capturing very small pollutants with electric charges has been a wonderful advancement in the quest for high indoor air quality, and it has helped to improve office air quality significantly.
Find Out How to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Your Workplace
If you would like to learn more about improving indoor air quality and the air filtration systems available to you, contact us today. In St. Louis and the surrounding area, get in touch with the heating & air conditioning experts on the Galmiche & Sons service team to learn more about what new technology is right for you.
