The EPA has ranked indoor air pollution as one of the top five environmental risks to public health causing skin and eye irritation, allergies and asthma attacks. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory studies indicate increased ventilation rates are associated with higher student performance in reading and math as well as reduced health risks. After wages the biggest expense universities face is inefficient HVAC systems. Studies have shown a potential energy cost savings of as much as 25% by improving/upgrading systems and a consistent maintenance program. We recommend the following upgrades for improving overall indoor air quality:
Every university is different so there is no single decision that fits everyone. A well-designed HVAC system maintains space temperature and humidity conditions as well as outdoor air amounts economically.