The Hidden Cost of Poor Airflow in High-Performance Commercial Buildings

Poor airflow in commercial buildings leads to higher energy bills, reduced indoor air quality, and HVAC wear. Learn how to identify and solv

Ava Montini

Mar 24, 2025

Written by

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Why airflow inefficiencies drive up costs, compromise indoor air quality, and create hidden challenges for facility managers

Most commercial and institutional buildings today are designed with performance and efficiency in mind. Energy benchmarks, ESG goals, and occupant well-being are often front and center. But despite those efforts, one critical element of building performance is consistently underdiagnosed: airflow.

Poor airflow can silently affect every corner of your building’s operations — from higher energy consumption and HVAC maintenance costs to reduced indoor air quality (IAQ) and missed sustainability opportunities. It rarely shows up as a red flag on day one, but over time, it chips away at performance in ways that are both measurable and avoidable.

Inefficient Airflow Increases Energy Use — Even in “Efficient” Buildings

In many commercial buildings, HVAC systems account for roughly 30–40% of total energy consumption, according to Natural Resources Canada and ASHRAE. But when airflow is restricted, that percentage can climb significantly.

The most common culprits are high-resistance filters, dirty or aging ductwork, unbalanced systems, or outdated fans. These conditions increase static pressure, which forces HVAC fans to work harder and longer to achieve required airflow levels.

According to a study by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), buildings with airflow-related HVAC issues can see energy use increase by up to 30% compared to optimized systems. [1]

Even minor issues can have an outsized impact. A 100,000 sq. ft. office building experiencing elevated fan energy use due to clogged filters or inefficient duct design could face annual utility costs tens of thousands of dollars higher than necessary. For building owners managing multiple sites, that inefficiency compounds quickly.

Airflow and Indoor Air Quality Are Closely Linked

Buildings are dynamic systems, and air quality tends to suffer when airflow is compromised. Insufficient airflow can lead to poor ventilation, uneven air distribution, and pockets of stagnation in rooms or zones. These areas often experience elevated levels of carbon dioxide (CO₂), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter — especially in high-occupancy spaces.

A 2015 study from Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that employees working in well-ventilated buildings performed 61% better on cognitive tasks than those in typical buildings with poor ventilation and air quality. [2]

In schools, researchers have found that students in classrooms with improved ventilation perform better on standardized tests. [3] In healthcare facilities, inadequate air movement can increase the risk of airborne illness transmission.

Common complaints like “stuffy rooms,” temperature inconsistencies, or fatigue can often be traced back to airflow and ventilation issues — even when temperature setpoints and filtration standards are technically being met.

Poor Airflow Wears Down HVAC Systems Faster

Inefficient airflow costs more on your energy bill and accelerates mechanical wear and tear. When fan motors, compressors, and dampers are forced to operate under continuous load, components degrade faster than expected.

This leads to:

More frequent repairs and service calls
Shortened equipment lifespan
Greater downtime and occupant discomfort during peak seasons

A study from the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) notes that air distribution restrictions are a key factor in premature HVAC failure and reduced system capacity. [4]

The cost of replacing a rooftop unit, for example, can range from $10,000 to $25,000, depending on building size and complexity — not including indirect costs from temporary system downtime.

Sustainability Targets Can Be Quietly Undermined

Many facilities today are pursuing ESG goals, LEED certification, or local emissions reduction mandates. But airflow inefficiencies can quietly work against those targets by increasing Scope 2 emissions (energy-related emissions) and filter waste.

High-resistance air filters, mainly traditional pleated filters, can contribute to this in two ways:

Increased energy use due to pressure drop
Frequent changeouts, leading to more waste and landfill contribution

According to a 2021 study in Building and Environment, filter pressure drop is one of the most overlooked contributors to unnecessary HVAC energy use — especially when filters are overused or under-maintained. [5]

If a building claims progress in sustainability, it’s important to ensure that filtration and airflow practices align with those claims—both from an energy and waste standpoint.

Missed Opportunities for Incentives and Cost Recovery

One of the lesser-known downsides of inefficient airflow is the lost opportunity to qualify for energy retrofit incentives.

Many utility and government programs across North America offer rebates, grants, or low-interest financing for businesses upgrading HVAC systems, controls, and low-pressure filtration. But to be eligible, buildings often need to demonstrate quantifiable improvements in system performance.

For example, Ontario’s Save on Energy Retrofit Program offers up to 50% of project costs for energy-efficiency upgrades, including those related to ventilation, air handling units, and demand control ventilation systems. [6]

Without data on airflow improvement or energy reduction — or without addressing underlying airflow inefficiencies — buildings may fail to qualify, leaving funding on the table.

Practical Steps to Address Airflow Challenges

The good news is that improving airflow doesn’t require a major capital project. Many impactful changes can be made within existing operations and maintenance cycles.

Here’s where most facilities can start:

Conduct a static pressure and airflow assessment to identify bottlenecks
Replace high-pressure filters with low-pressure, high-efficiency alternatives
Balance and tune your HVAC system, especially if zones have changed due to new usage patterns
Install real-time IAQ monitors to detect issues as they emerge, not after complaints arise
Track filter changeouts and energy use to capture data for future incentive applications

These strategies are already being implemented in facilities across North America — and in most cases, they deliver measurable improvements in energy efficiency, equipment reliability, and occupant satisfaction.

Airflow may not be the most visible part of your building, but it’s one of the most influential. When ignored, it quietly drives up energy costs, reduces system lifespan, and compromises air quality.

For facility managers and business owners focused on performance, sustainability, and operational clarity, airflow should be on the radar — not just as a maintenance metric but as a lever for long-term efficiency and resilience.

Addressing airflow challenges is a straightforward, high-ROI step that supports healthier, more cost-effective, and future-ready buildings.

The Crucial Role of Indoor Air Quality in Patient Safety: Healthcare Solutions and Strategies

Jennifer Crowley
Apr 9, 2024
4 min read

Updated: Jul 8, 2024

Image of immunocompromised patient requiring oxygen in a sanitary cleanroom at a healthcare facility — Poor IAQ can lead to the spread of airborne contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and allergens, increasing the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and exacerbating respiratory conditions.

In the realm of healthcare, patient safety reigns supreme. From stringent sanitation protocols to advanced medical technologies, hospitals and medical facilities spare no effort in ensuring the well-being of their patients. However, one often overlooked aspect of patient safety is the quality of the air they breathe. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) plays a critical role in creating a safe and healthy environment for patients, staff, and visitors alike. In this blog post, we'll delve into the importance of IAQ in healthcare settings, exploring solutions and strategies to safeguard patient safety.

Understanding the Impact of IAQ on Patient Safety:

The air quality within healthcare facilities directly impacts the health outcomes of patients. Poor IAQ can lead to the spread of airborne contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and allergens, increasing the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and exacerbating respiratory conditions. For immunocompromised patients, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplants, exposure to pollutants in the air can pose serious health risks and hinder the healing process. Additionally, airborne particles and pollutants can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory distress in vulnerable individuals, further compromising patient safety.

Solutions for Enhancing IAQ in Healthcare Facilities:

Advanced Air Filtration Systems: Investing in high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and electrostatic precipitators can effectively capture and remove airborne pathogens and pollutants, ensuring clean and safe air for patients and staff.
Proactive Ventilation Strategies: Implementing proper ventilation systems, including increased air exchanges and the use of outdoor air intake, can help dilute indoor air pollutants and reduce the concentration of harmful contaminants.
UVC Disinfection Technology: Integrating ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) systems into HVAC systems and air ducts can neutralize bacteria, viruses, and mold spores, providing an additional layer of protection against airborne pathogens.
Regular Maintenance and Cleaning: Routine inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of HVAC systems, air ducts, and ventilation components are essential for preventing the buildup of mold, dust, and other contaminants that can compromise IAQ.
Air Quality Monitoring: Utilizing IAQ monitoring systems and sensors allows healthcare facilities to continuously monitor air quality parameters, such as temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide levels, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), enabling proactive identification and mitigation of IAQ issues.
Staff Education and Training: Providing healthcare staff with comprehensive training on IAQ best practices, infection control measures, and proper ventilation protocols empowers them to contribute to a safer and healthier environment for patients.

Key Spaces in Healthcare Settings to Focus IAQ Solutions on:

Patient Rooms: Ensuring clean and contaminant-free air in patient rooms is essential for protecting patients with compromised immune systems and supporting their recovery process.
Surgical Suites: Maintaining sterile environments in surgical suites is critical for preventing surgical site infections and ensuring optimal patient outcomes following surgical procedures.
Intensive Care Units (ICUs): Patients in ICUs are often the most vulnerable to airborne infections, making it imperative to implement rigorous IAQ measures to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
Emergency Departments: High patient turnover and exposure to a wide range of illnesses in emergency departments necessitate effective IAQ solutions to minimize the spread of infectious agents.
Laboratories and Pharmacies: Controlling airborne contaminants in laboratories and pharmacies is essential for preserving the integrity of medical samples and medications and ensuring accurate test results and safe drug administration.
Waiting Areas and Common Spaces: Providing clean and comfortable air in waiting areas and common spaces enhances the overall patient experience and reduces the risk of airborne transmission of infections among patients and visitors.

Strategies for Implementing IAQ Solutions:

Assessment and Evaluation: Conducting comprehensive IAQ assessments and audits to identify potential sources of indoor air pollution and areas for improvement.
Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging key stakeholders, including facility managers, environmental health specialists, infection control teams, and maintenance staff, in the development and implementation of IAQ solutions fosters collaboration and ensures a coordinated approach to addressing IAQ challenges.
Prioritization of Resources: Allocating sufficient resources and budgetary support for IAQ improvement initiatives demonstrates organizational commitment to patient safety and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.
Compliance with Regulatory Standards: Adhering to IAQ regulations and guidelines set forth by regulatory agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), ensures compliance and promotes accountability in maintaining safe indoor environments.
Continuous Monitoring and Evaluation: Establishing protocols for ongoing IAQ monitoring, data collection, and performance evaluation allows healthcare facilities to track progress, identify trends, and make informed decisions to optimize IAQ management strategies over time.

In the realm of healthcare, patient safety is paramount, and indoor air quality plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and healthy environment for patients, staff, and visitors. By implementing proactive IAQ solutions and strategies, healthcare facilities can mitigate the risks associated with poor air quality, reduce the transmission of infectious diseases, and enhance overall patient outcomes.

Are you interested in learning more about Blade Air's arsenal of IAQ solutions? Connect with us so you and your patients can #BreatheEasier

As stewards of patient safety, it is incumbent upon healthcare providers to prioritize IAQ management and invest in technologies and practices that promote a clean, healthy, and healing environment for all.

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