FM newsroom – facility management. Optimizing airflow improves energy efficiency and uncovers hidden operational benefits. Discover how this often-underutilized resource can transform operations, improve sustainability, and reduce costs.
By harnessing airflow data strategically, organizations can enhance performance, reduce costs, and meet sustainability objectives. Buildings Magazine listed five impactful ways to leverage airflow data.
1. Change the behaviour and maximize energy savings
Airflow data can drive energy efficiency by promoting behavioural changes. Real-time monitoring dashboards reveal inefficiencies in specific areas, enabling facility managers to take targeted action. For instance, a room needing frequent thermal adjustments might indicate excess equipment or obstructed thermostats. Airflow data can also uncover issues like fume hoods left open unnecessarily or spikes in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from improperly stored chemicals. Addressing these occupant behaviours with the insights provided by airflow data can lead to significant energy savings.
2. Continuous commissioning can support long-term goals
Airflow data provides granular insights into energy performance on a room-by-room basis. Facility managers can compare baseline airflow rates with actual usage to identify underperforming spaces. Issues such as stuck heat valves or misconfigured building management systems can be swiftly addressed. Continuous commissioning using airflow data ensures buildings operate at peak efficiency, supporting long-term energy and sustainability goals.
3. Streamline compliance and reporting
In highly regulated environments like hospitals or research facilities, real-time airflow data plays a critical role in compliance. Environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity are essential for maintaining regulatory standards. Demand-controlled ventilation systems make tracking and documenting these metrics straightforward.
4. Cutting insurance costs
A safe, well-monitored indoor environment can reduce facility insurance premiums. Organizations and businesses that demonstrate strong indoor air quality (IAQ) standards using documented airflow data can mitigate risks, resulting in fewer incidents and lower premiums. In laboratory settings, this commitment to safety and data-backed monitoring can create substantial financial benefits.
5. The HR benefits of a healthier workspace
IAQ is a key concern for prospective employees in today’s competitive job market, especially in labs or healthcare facilities where chemicals are frequently used. Real-time airflow data allows organizations to showcase healthy, well-ventilated workplaces, providing proof of their commitment to employee well-being. By prioritizing IAQ, companies can attract and retain top-tier talent, gaining a competitive edge.
