Benefits of Air Conditioning in an Office
June 8th, 2023
Last updated: June 9th, 2023
What are the benefits of air conditioning in an office? We explore a lot of the reasons why businesses are turning to air conditioning units to keep their employees cool.
Many of us have experienced being sat in an office when it is roasting hot, and trying to get work done in this scenario can be really difficult, if not impossible. This isn’t a decision to take lightly, and air conditioning units aren’t necessarily cheap. Plus, they require maintenance.
So, should you install an air conditioning unit in an office? What are the benefits of an air conditioning unit?
Benefits of Office Air Conditioning
Temperature regulation. Air conditioning helps maintain a comfortable temperature indoors, ensuring a conducive working environment. It allows employees to focus on their tasks without being distracted by extreme heat or cold, which can negatively impact the mood of an office.
Enhanced productivity: Studies have shown that excessive heat can decrease cognitive function and impair decision-making abilities. By maintaining a cool and comfortable temperature, air conditioning helps improve employee concentration, alertness, and overall productivity. In fact, office productivity can drop by around 76% according to this study, if the heat is not addressed.
Improved air quality: Modern air conditioning systems often incorporate air filters that remove pollutants, allergens, and dust particles from the air. This helps create a healthier indoor environment by reducing the risk of respiratory problems and allergies among employees.
Humidity control: Air conditioning helps regulate humidity levels in the office. High humidity can lead to discomfort, promote mould growth, and affect the lifespan of electronic equipment. By controlling humidity, air conditioning contributes to a more pleasant and efficient working environment.
Noise reduction: Air conditioning systems can help reduce external noise by keeping windows and doors closed. This is especially beneficial in busy urban areas or offices located near noisy environments, allowing employees to concentrate better and have more productive discussions.
Equipment protection: Electronics, such as computers and servers, are sensitive to heat. Overheating can even lead to breakages. Air conditioning helps maintain optimal operating temperatures, preventing overheating and extending the lifespan of valuable equipment. This reduces the risk of system failures and data loss, which can be costly for a business.
Employees and customers will thank you for it: Air conditioning plays a crucial role in employee comfort and well-being. By providing a comfortable indoor climate, it can help prevent heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. It also contributes to employee satisfaction and morale.
Should I Get Air Conditioning in the Office?
This depends on a lot of different factors. Air conditioning installation isn’t always cheap, and if you don’t own the premises then it can be an investment you don’t want to make. You may be improving the premises for someone else to benefit in the future. You may not even get permission.
However, there aren’t many ways to keep an office cool that are as effective, and the benefits of getting air conditioning in the office are clear. This means a lot of business owners decide that it is worth it.
Alternatives to Air Conditioning
There are a few different ways to try and combat heat.
Evaporative coolers, for instance, use water to cool and humidify the air. They work best in dry climates, as they rely on evaporation to cool the air. Evaporative coolers are more energy-efficient than air conditioners, but their effectiveness decreases in humid environments.
Of course, good ventilation can also be used, as well as light-blocking window coverings, but this has its downsides (who wants to work in the dark all day?) A nicer way to do this is to use natural shade from trees, plants, or architectural features like overhangs and trellises, they help reduce direct sunlight exposure and lower temperatures, but they’re easiest to use in outdoor areas.
Well insulated spaces make a difference, though it can seem like they would naturally be warmer. The proper insulation of walls, ceilings, and windows can help prevent heat gain during hot weather and heat loss during colder seasons. Well-insulated spaces are more likely to maintain a comfortable temperature naturally.
Conclusion
Robinsons Facilities Services can provide all of the advice that you need regarding keeping your office cool and well-ventilated.
We can install any type of air conditioner, in a variety of different settings and business premises. We will work with you to find the best solution for your commercial premises and our accredited engineers offer efficient and effective installation.
If you have an existing air conditioner that is not working as it should, our team can carry out a range of repairs. We also offer emergency repair services for when you need someone to come out at short notice.
Working across Yorkshire, we cover North Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, East Yorkshire and South Yorkshire and offer a fast, efficient response time to all breakdowns and repairs.
Contact us today for all planned, reactive maintenance or emergency call out. Call 01423 226578 or get in touch to see how Robinsons Facilities Services can help