5 Signs of Poor Indoor Air Quality in Your Commercial Property
Maintaining a healthy indoor environment at your Oak Brook business is crucial. Whether you operate a retail shop, office, warehouse, medical facility, or another type of commercial property, you depend on an efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system that supports healthy indoor air quality (IAQ).
Poor air quality can lead to a range of health issues, negatively impact productivity, and even deter guests, clients, and visitors. Recognizing the signs of inadequate air quality is the first step toward ensuring a comfortable and safe environment.
Amber Mechanical is committed to helping businesses all throughout Illinois achieve these goals! Our team of professionals is committed to providing innovative heating and cooling solutions to ensure the successful operation of your business.
Warning Signs of Poor IAQ
Here is a list of indicators of poor air quality at your Oak Brook business—and tips on how to address the issue:
1. Unpleasant Odors
One of the initial signs of poor air quality in commercial properties is the presence of persistent and unpleasant odors. Some potential causes include mold, mildew, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and trash and debris.
Identifying the source of the odor is essential to address the underlying issue and to ensure your air quality is clean and healthy to breathe. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent odors from becoming a recurrent problem.
2. Inadequate Ventilation
Insufficient ventilation can lead to a buildup of pollutants indoors. If your commercial property lacks proper ventilation, you might notice that the air feels stale and stuffy. Additionally, an increase in humidity levels can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an ideal indoor humidity level ranges between 30 and 50 percent. Try to keep the humidity levels within this range to reduce the risk of mold growth and to protect your health.
Regular HVAC system maintenance, proper ventilation design, and the installation of air purifiers can greatly improve your indoor air quality.
3. Dust and Particles Accumulation
Excessive dust and particle accumulation on surfaces and in the air is a clear indicator of poor air quality. These particles can include pollutants from outside, such as vehicle emissions, as well as indoor sources like cleaning products, fragrances, paint, and construction materials.
Regular cleaning routines, high-quality air filters, and air purifiers can help reduce particle levels and maintain a healthier environment.
4. Allergic Reactions and Respiratory Issues
If you notice an increase in allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, coughing, or watery eyes, among employees or customers, it might be a result of poor air quality.
Dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores can trigger these reactions. In more severe cases, poor air quality can contribute to respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis. Monitoring the health of employees, guests, customers, and visitors is essential. Target the source of the issue by installing an air purification system to remove up to 99 percent of airborne pathogens and allergens.
5. Reduced Employee Productivity
Poor air quality can have a direct impact on employee productivity. Occupants of commercial properties with inadequate air quality might experience headaches, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. These factors can collectively contribute to decreased work efficiency. Addressing air quality concerns proactively can help create a more conducive working environment.
Recognizing the signs of poor air quality in commercial properties is essential for creating a safe and healthy environment for employees, customers, and visitors. Regular maintenance of your commercial HVAC system along with ensuring proper ventilation and using air purifiers are effective measures to improve indoor air quality.
By addressing air quality concerns promptly and professionally, you help ensure the well-being and comfort of employees, customers, and guests.
Take Back Control of Your Indoor Air Quality
Ready to address indoor air quality problems in your Oak Brook, IL, business? Amber Mechanical can offer a variety of solutions to ensure your air quality is healthier and cleaner than ever before. Call us at 1-800-592-6237 to get started today or request service online.