5 Ways to Leverage Airflow Data (And Benefits You May Not Know About)

Optimizing airflow unlocks access to valuable data that many organizations likely didn’t have before. While the obvious advantage is boosting efficiency, other equally important co-benefits are often overlooked. Here are five key strategies for using airflow data to improve operations, reduce costs, and meet sustainability goals.

1. Maximizing Energy Savings by Adjusting Occupant Behavior

Airflow data can drive energy efficiency through behavioral changes. Monitoring dashboards that display room performance allow facility managers to target areas with the greatest inefficiencies. For example, if a room frequently requires thermal adjustments, it might signal excess equipment or a thermostat blocked by something like a refrigerator. Similarly, airflow data can reveal that fume hoods are being left open unnecessarily, or that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are spiking due to chemicals being left out. Addressing these behaviors with the help of airflow data can result in substantial energy savings.

2. Continuous Commissioning for Optimal Performance

Airflow data offers detailed, room-by-room insights into energy performance, allowing facility managers to identify which spaces are operating efficiently and which ones require attention. By comparing base airflow rates with actual usage, managers can pinpoint underperforming rooms and investigate potential issues, such as a stuck heat valve or mis-programmed building management systems. Using data to address these inefficiencies ensures the building operates consistently at peak efficiency, aligning with long-term energy-saving objectives.

3. Supporting Compliance and Reporting

In regulated environments such as hospitals or vivaria, real-time airflow data is crucial for compliance. These facilities often need to provide data on environmental conditions like temperature and humidity, which can be easily tracked through demand-controlled ventilation systems. For example, vivaria must regularly reaccredit through AAALAC, and continuous monitoring via airflow data ensures compliance. Similarly, healthcare institutions can use airflow data to streamline their reporting for JCAHO, simplifying the documentation process for regulatory compliance.

4. Reducing Insurance Costs

Maintaining a safe, well-monitored environment can lead to reduced insurance premiums for universities and businesses. Organizations that demonstrate their commitment to indoor air quality—especially in lab spaces—can use airflow data as evidence to minimize risks. Fewer incidents, combined with documented data on air quality, lead to lower insurance costs and a safer environment overall.

5. Attracting Employees with a Healthy Workplace

In today’s competitive labor market, indoor air quality (IAQ) is a significant concern, particularly in laboratory environments where chemicals are commonly used. Organizations that can demonstrate healthy IAQ using real-time airflow data have a competitive edge when attracting and retaining talent. By showcasing their commitment to employee well-being and offering proof of clean, well-ventilated workspaces, businesses can draw in top researchers and professionals.

By leveraging comprehensive airflow data, organizations can reduce operational costs while driving energy savings, ensuring regulatory compliance, and creating healthier, safer, and more attractive work environments.