What You Need to Know About Sick Building Syndrome

If you haven’t heard of Sick building syndrome (SBS), it’s time to get acquainted with this indoor environmental health concern. This isn’t about buildings feeling under the weather, but rather about you and how being inside certain buildings can make you feel ill.

Maintaining a healthy indoor environment is critical for your well-being and productivity; one key player is your HVAC system. Mechanical Technologies, a top choice in commercial HVAC and home AC repair services, delves into understanding SBS and how it affects overall health. We also explore your HVAC system’s role in maintaining a clean and healthy indoor environment.

Understanding Sick Building Syndrome

Sick building syndrome (SBS) is when occupants experience discomfort or health issues directly linked to the time spent in a building. The specific causes are often unknown but are largely associated with poor indoor air quality.

Signs of Sick Building Syndrome

The symptoms of sick building syndrome can range from mild to severe. Some of the most common ones are often linked to the time spent inside the building. They include:

• Headaches. Frequent headaches, often accompanied by fatigue and trouble concentrating, can indicate poor indoor air quality.
• Respiratory Issues. Irritated and congested airways are common in poorly ventilated buildings, leading to allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory problems.
• Skin Irritation. Dry, itchy, or irritated skin can result from low humidity levels, dust, mold, or other allergens.
• Eye Irritation. Red, dry, or watery eyes can indicate suspended particulates, airborne chemicals, or inadequate ventilation in the building.
• Nausea or Dizziness. Exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or harmful chemicals in the air can lead to nausea, dizziness, or vomiting.
• General Discomfort. Individuals in a sick building may also smell odors, feel drafts, or experience temperature fluctuations, leading to an overall sensation of discomfort.

The Role of Commercial HVAC Maintenance

Maintaining a well-functioning HVAC system within commercial buildings is crucial for maintaining air quality and preventing the symptoms associated with sick building syndrome. Here’s how a professional in HVAC and swamp cooler maintenance services ensures your system can prevent SBS: 

• Proper Ventilation. Regular maintenance ensures the HVAC system functions efficiently, providing fresh, clean air by filtering pollutants and maintaining optimal humidity levels.
• Filter Replacement. Dirty or clogged filters can result in poor air circulation and the presence of dust, mold, and allergens. Routine filter replacement is essential for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
• Regular Inspections. Professional inspections can help identify HVAC system issues like leaks, mold growth, or malfunctioning components, which could negatively impact indoor air quality if left untreated. Scheduling this regularly can also help reduce energy consumption, minimize unnecessary wear and tear on the components, and extend the life of your system.
• Air Duct Cleaning. Over time, dust, debris, and contaminants can accumulate within your air duct system. Regular cleaning is essential to ensure these pollutants don’t negatively impact your building’s air quality.
• Humidity Control. Excessively high or low humidity levels can lead to the growth of mold, mildew, and dust mites. Regular HVAC maintenance includes monitoring and controlling humidity to ensure a comfortable, healthy atmosphere.

Cure Your Property’s Sick Building Syndrome Today

For homeowners and business owners in El Paso, TX, and the surrounding areas, EP Mechanical Technologies is the go-to contractor for high-quality HVAC services. We offer professional HVAC maintenance and repair services that take the worry off your shoulders. And if you have any other questions, like “How much does refrigerated air cost?” or “How can I improve indoor air quality?”, don’t hesitate to call us.

You can reach us at (915) 544-1550 to get started. You can also visit our contact page to learn more about our products and services. We’re ready to assist you in creating the healthiest indoor environment possible in your building.