When you’re making plans for your office space, there’s a lot to consider. Providing a safe and comfortable work environment for your employees is a legal obligation, and HVAC plays an important role in this.
Read on for what you need to know about office HVAC and how you can optimize your system.
What an office HVAC system should do
Investing in the right HVAC system is crucial for any employer.
There are many different types of HVAC systems on the market; however, all of them perform the same essential functions: they circulate air around the space, they maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year, and they keep the air inside the office fresh and clean.
- Ventilation
In large offices, many areas may have little or no access to fresh air. Without an adequate HVAC system, the air will become unpleasantly stale, producing a foul odor.
Stagnant air can also carry germs and viruses like COVID-19 or increase carbon dioxide to dangerous levels, causing health issues like headaches.
- Temperature
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has published guidelines suggesting that the ideal office temperature is somewhere between 68 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit. Humidity should be in the 20%–60% range.
Your system can help you achieve and maintain these standards. Comfortable employees are productive employees, so it makes great business sense to invest in quality HVAC.
- Air quality
You might find that your office needs more than ventilation to guarantee clean, breathable air. Add-ons such as filters and cleaners can be very helpful in eradicating odors, dust, dander, and viruses from the air.
This is especially important for any employees that suffer from allergies. HVAC specialists will be able to make recommendations based on your business’ unique needs.
Making the most of your office HVAC
When it comes to your business’ budget, energy bills are an important consideration. Opting for an efficient HVAC system and maintaining it appropriately can cause a significant reduction in your monthly costs.
There are also some additional steps you can take to ensure your HVAC system performs to the highest standards.
- Zoning
In a large office, different areas will have different needs. That’s why it makes sense to zone them off. One thermostat will not be sufficient to keep the entire space comfortable. It’s also more energy efficient: why heat meeting rooms that aren’t in use?
- Architecture
If you’re renovating or building a new office, you can incorporate certain features that will support your HVAC system. For example, you might opt for insulated walls and windows or you might add more daylight to reduce the heating load.
- Smart technology
The use of sensors has revolutionized office HVAC. You might include occupancy sensors in your system. These will detect the number of people using a space at any given time and produce reports which are then used to automatically adjust controls. This can be very useful in saving energy.
Optimize your HVAC with Beehive Heating and Air
In the Salt Lake City area, we are the experts in HVAC solutions for commercial and residential buildings alike. Don’t hesitate to contact us; it costs nothing for a no-obligation consultation and quotation.