The WELL Building StandardTM (WELL) is an evidence and performance-based system for measuring, certifying and monitoring features that impact human health and well-being in the built environment, and covers seven core concepts: air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.
Essentially, WELL offers a set of standards and a clear path to achieving a healthy, sustainable and comfortable indoor working environment. This is important for a number of reasons, and commercial HVAC systems play a vital role in achieving the WELL standards.
What’s the Value in Achieving WELL Building Standards?
First, a WELL building can create major operational cost savings. For most buildings, energy consumption is a major cost. A WELL building will have all systems fine-tuned to consume as little energy as possible, directly contributing to cost savings. Further, well maintained systems, such as HVAC equipment, tends to break down less and last longer, reducing expensive downtime and extending the lifespan of expensive equipment.
Beyond cost savings, it’s also important to consider WELL because of the health implications of an improperly maintained building environment. Sick building syndrome (SBS) can impact physical, emotional and even mental health. Legionella, among other illnesses, can even be fatal. The importance of WELL is exponentially higher in a healthcare facility where residents often have compromised immune systems. Building owners and managers have a responsibility to keep their residents safe and comfortable.
The Role of Commercial HVAC Systems in WELL
Commercial HVAC systems play an important role in indoor air quality. When ventilation ducts aren’t cleaned regularly or are improperly maintained, pollutants such as allergens, molds, dust and bacteria can build up and spread throughout the building. A clean commercial HVAC system can contribute greatly to the health of residents and help achieve WELL.
Commercial HVAC systems are also a major potential source of efficiency. Most HVAC systems require considerable energy consumption – even more so when systems are old or not well-maintained. Regular commercial HVAC maintenance, along with high-efficiency upgrades or replacement, can lead to cost savings and greener operations.
WELL is an important standard for building owners to reach. It can contribute to the health and comfort of building occupants while driving cost savings through energy efficiency. Commercial HVAC plays a crucial role in achieving WELL and all the benefits that go along with it.
To learn more on this topic, see our WELL Building Commercial HVAC Services.
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