Controlling the temperature in the workplace ensures employees are comfortable and productive.
An efficient air conditioning system also helps reduce energy consumption and costs.
Do offices need air conditioning?
AC isn’t a legal requirement in the UK, but it’s impossible to maintain the right temperature without it.
Poor ventilation, big windows and overcrowded offices can become hot and stuffy.
Inadequate heating and ventilation on cold, damp days is equally unpleasant and not conducive to a happy and productive workplace.
Modern HVAC systems are ideal for maintaining comfort and air quality whatever the weather.
Why is air conditioning important in an office?
So, how does air conditioning work in an office?
- Comfortable temperature – It’s much easier to maintain high productivity levels if you’re comfortable and wide awake. It’s also more agreeable for your customers when they visit.
- Control humidity – Air conditioning keeps humidity at optimum levels. This prevents damp, mildew and mould from forming – an unpleasant and unhealthy situation.
- Protects essential equipment – computers, servers and printers all generate heat. This leads to costly and inconvenient breakdowns if left unregulated. Air conditioning maintains the correct temperature to keep everything running efficiently.
- Improves energy efficiency – modern air conditioning heats or cools using the surrounding air, rather than gas. This makes AC more cost-effective than gas central heating and reduces carbon emissions.
Which is the best temperature for office air conditioning?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) suggests a minimum temperature of 16°C in the office or 13°C if work involves more strenuous activity.
The finer points depend on individual preference and external temperature.
Which air conditioning system is best for office use?
This depends on the size of the building, the number of staff, the location of heat-generating equipment and your budget.
How does air conditioning work in an office? Here are some examples:
Single, twin and multiple split systems
These can heat or cool and are ideal for small spaces.
They have indoor and outdoor units and are easy to install. Singles and twins have one set of controls whilst multi splits are more versatile.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems
These are suitable for medium or larger premises as multiple indoor units can be installed.
Precise controls allow for variable temperatures so some areas can be warm whilst others are cool, as required.
Ducted systems
These require one indoor unit concealed in a basement or loft.
The unit directs hot or cold air into ductwork throughout the building. Ducted systems are good for large offices.
Setpoint22: Efficient and reliable air conditioning from the experts
Modern HVAC systems keep the workplace comfortable, healthy and running efficiently, whatever the weather. If you’re wondering how does air conditioning work in an office, you’ve come to the right place.