Indoor air quality (IAQ) can have a direct impact on the health, comfort, and energy levels of the people exposed to it. If you manage or own a commercial or office building then you have a responsibility to provide occupants with a healthy work environment. Have an HVAC inspector perform an IAQ test and examine the work environment for issues tha­­­­t can contribute to poor air quality.

Room temperature, ventilation, humidity, mold, dust particles, and everyday chemicals can affect your air quality. Some of the most common causes are listed below.

5 Common causes of poor indoor air quality

1. Poor HVAC maintenance – A neglected ventilation system can cause a lot of problems and will run inefficiently and break down sooner. Clogged air filters significantly decrease air flow pressure; replace filters often.
2. Occupational density – When buildings place more people in smaller spaces it places added strain on your ventilation system’s effectiveness.
3. Lack of ventilation – A blocked or damaged fresh air intake will limit the air flow. It will continue to circulate stale air which can have a negative impact on employee productivity rates.
4. Moisture and dampness – Flooding, leaks, or high humidity in the summer months, can cause water damage and mold growth. Mold spores can spread into HVAC systems and cause health issues.
5. Chemical contaminants – Cleaning products are a major culprit, their cleaning agents and scents release harmful toxins into the air that can affect your breathing.

Easy ways to improve your air quality

• Routine HVAC maintenance is your best bet to keep your building’s air quality in check. Your HVAC technician should regularly test, inspect, and repair all the components of your ventilation system. Find a maintenance provider that includes IQA testing in your maintenance contract.
• Protect your building occupants by purifying the air. Install a UV air filtration system to sterilize and eliminate the bacteria, mold, viruses, and chemicals that can pass through air filters.

Intelligent Comfort Solutions provides, customized HVAC maintenance plans for commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities in the GTA. Prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your HVAC system; contact us for a quote today!

• Written by Dave Morrison
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Dave Morrison is the General Manager at Intelligent Comfort Solutions. He has over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial HVAC maintenance, repair, installation, and indoor air quality improvement. He prides himself on finding the best HVAC solution for your business, and building a lasting relationship that your business can depend on. Dave is known for his open and honest communication and his friendly top notch customer service.

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