Unfortunately, business owners and property managers don’t always give a ton of thought to their indoor air quality. But they should! Good indoor quality plays a significant role in the workplace. Read on to learn more about air quality and how it’s related to commercial HVAC maintenance.
Why is good air quality important?
We wouldn’t put such an emphasis on indoor air quality if it wasn’t an essential component of the workplace. These are a few of the benefits of keeping your office’s air quality as good as possible:
- Prevents illnesses: Sick building syndrome (SBS) describes symptoms directly correlated to indoor air pollution, poor ventilation and less-than-ideal temperatures. Some symptoms include headaches, fatigue, breathing problems and irritated eyes, noses and throats. Ensuring your office has great indoor air quality can prevent these illnesses and reduce employee absenteeism.
- Improves productivity: Keeping your air quality at its best can ensure your employees stay productive and happy throughout the workweek. A study by the Harvard Business Review found that productivity decreased by two percent from every one-degree shift away from optimal temperature. Additionally, productivity increased by two percent every time fresh outdoor air was delivered to an office.
- Reduces turnover: The Harvard Business Review also suggests that high-quality indoor air is a “must-have” to attract and retain the top talent for an office. Instead of constantly worrying about hiring new employees to replace those who’ve left, consider checking your indoor air quality and improving it wherever possible.
How can I improve my air quality?
The good news is that improving your air quality isn’t a guessing game. Take these steps to ensure your indoor air is as clean and healthy as can be:
- Schedule professional maintenance: The best way to boost your air quality while ensuring your HVAC equipment lasts as long as possible is by scheduling commercial HVAC maintenance. During this service call, a technician will clean the system and make adjustments to ensure it’s in good working order.
- Invest in new filters: In between service calls, replace your air filters that are designed to trap particles and allergens that cause SBS. Speak with your HVAC contractor about how frequently your filters should be swapped out.
- Upgrade your thermostat: As mentioned above, you need to keep your office at an ideal temperature to keep employees healthy and comfortable. New smart thermostats ensure the temperature is properly regulated and can even help improve your system’s energy efficiency. New thermostats for a large building could set you back a few hundred dollars, but it’s an investment every business owner should make.
- Purchase a new system: Though it’s not cheap, you should consider replacing your outdated HVAC equipment. A new HVAC system will help boost your air quality and reduce your monthly energy bills—it will pay for itself in no time.
If it’s been a while since you’ve hired a professional for commercial HVAC maintenance, then call our team at McGee Refrigeration. After we’re finished, you can rest easy knowing your air will be clean and your HVAC equipment will work as efficiently as possible.