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The most common culprits are high-resistance filters, dirty or aging ductwork, unbalanced systems, or outdated fans.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.

What is Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)?

Jennifer Crowley
Jul 31, 2023
3 min read

Updated: Jul 8, 2024

Female professional sitting at her desk blowing her nose — Indoor air quality plays a significant role in the development of Sick Building Syndrome.

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) refers to a condition in which building occupants experience various health issues due to exposure to indoor pollutants. This phenomenon occurs across different settings, including offices, schools, hospitals, and residential buildings. It is crucial to recognize and address SBS, as it can significantly impact the overall well-being and productivity of those affected.

Common Causes of Sick Building Syndrome

Several factors contribute to the development of Sick Building Syndrome. Understanding these causes is critical to tackling the issue effectively:

Poor Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Indoor air quality plays a significant role in the development of Sick Building Syndrome. The presence of indoor pollutants can result from a variety of sources, including:

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): VOCs are chemicals emitted as gases from various products and materials, such as paints, adhesives, cleaning agents, and office equipment. Prolonged exposure to high levels of VOCs can cause eye irritation, respiratory problems, and other health issues.
Allergens: Dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and other allergens can accumulate indoors, triggering allergic reactions and respiratory symptoms in sensitive individuals.
Chemicals: Harsh cleaning products, pesticides, and certain building materials release chemical compounds that can be harmful when inhaled.

Inadequate Ventilation and Air Circulation

Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality. Insufficient fresh air exchange allows pollutants to build up and circulate within the building. Factors contributing to poor ventilation include:

Inadequate airflow: Inefficient ventilation systems, blocked air vents, or poorly designed airflow patterns can lead to stagnant air and an increased concentration of contaminants.
Sealed windows: In modern buildings, windows are often sealed shut, limiting the inflow of fresh air and reducing natural ventilation.

High Humidity Levels or Water Damage

Excessive moisture in the building can create an environment conducive to the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria, which can lead to health issues. Causes of high humidity and water damage include:

Poorly maintained HVAC systems: Malfunctioning or poorly maintained air conditioning units or dehumidifiers can contribute to high humidity levels.
Water leaks: Roof leaks, plumbing issues, or inadequate waterproofing can result in water intrusion and subsequent mold growth.
Flooding: Buildings that have experienced flooding or water damage are at a higher risk of developing mold problems if not properly remediated.

Biological Contaminants

Biological contaminants, including mold, bacteria, and viruses, can thrive in indoor environments, particularly in the presence of moisture. Sources of biological contaminants include:

Dampness and water damage: Moisture-sustaining conditions support the growth of mold and bacteria, which can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues.
Poor maintenance and hygiene practices: Inadequate cleaning, improper waste management, and neglected food storage areas can contribute to the proliferation of bacteria and viruses.

Recognizing Symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome

Identifying the symptoms associated with Sick Building Syndrome is crucial for early intervention and prevention. These symptoms may include:

Throat irritation
Breathing exercises
Runny nose
Tight chest
Allergy-like symptoms
Itchy skin rash
Headaches
Dizziness
Mental fog
Hard to focus
Fatigue
Irritability
Nausea
Body aches
Fever
Chills

Preventative Measures and Solutions

There are practical steps you can take to mitigate Sick Building Syndrome and create a healthier indoor environment:

Improve indoor air quality (IAQ): Regularly maintain HVAC systems, including cleaning air filters and ducts, and ensure proper ventilation and air circulation.
Reduce potential sources of pollutants: Opt for environmentally friendly cleaning products, avoid smoking indoors, and limit using materials that emit harmful substances.
Manage humidity levels: Control moisture and promptly address any leaks or water damage to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Educate building occupants: Promote good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, and encourage individuals to take breaks and get fresh air throughout the day.
Conduct regular inspections: Periodic assessments of the building’s air quality, ventilation systems, and potential sources of contamination can help identify and address issues promptly.
Seek professional help: If the problem persists or you suspect severe contamination, consult experts specializing in indoor air.

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