The Benefits of an HVLS: Improving Air Flow and Quality for a Better Workplace

Employers implement several features and programs – and sometimes go to great lengths – within their workplace to ensure it is one that fosters productivity, creativity and a healthy, positive culture. Examples of such offerings may include an employee lounge, in-house snack-bar or restaurant, and team-building and bonding activities and exercises. While all of these perks and features can positively impact the work environment and employee morale, key components of the physical space in which employees perform their daily work must not be overlooked.

For employers looking to provide an optimal work environment, perhaps one of the most important considerations related to the physical workplace is the building’s indoor air circulation and quality. After all, the air we breathe is one of the essences of life. Air quality can have a significant impact on employee health and productivity.

The mechanisms through which good indoor air quality is achieved can either boost efficiency or serve as a drain on resources and increase energy costs. Air quality-conscious employers should carefully consider one tool in particular – a high-volume low-speed (HVLS) fan. In this post, we will outline some of the key benefits of an HVLS solution in improving indoor air quality and helping to maintain a safe and positive workplace.

What is an HVLS?

Aptly named, a high-volume low-speed (HVLS) fan refers to a type of mechanical fan that is larger than seven feet in diameter, and which rotates slowly/at low speed and produces large amounts of air. HVLS fans are typically ceiling fans, but some pole-mounted options exist as well.

Benefits of an HVLS

Quieter than HVACs

HVLS fans are known for their smooth and quiet rotation. Compared to noisy heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems – which kick on and off throughout the day – HVLS fans can continually run and are far less disruptive for employees trying to communicate with one another or by phone.

Energy efficient

HVLS solutions distribute large volumes of air with minimal energy, making them an efficient and cost-saving feature. HVLS fans typically cost about one dollar per day to operate and can cool a space by up to 12 degrees. Not too bad for a ceiling fan, is it?

Improve air quality and reduce pollutants

HVLS fans can also be an effective means of reducing indoor air pollutants, as they ensure significant and consistent airflow and prevent stagnant air and the buildup of debris, toxic airborne chemicals and other particles that may accumulate within a workspace.

HVLS fans also help to reduce moisture and condensation, which in turn helps minimize bacteria and mold.

By improving air quality and reducing health-related risk factors, HVLS fans can ultimately help improve productivity and ensure a healthier workforce that misses fewer days for illness.

Positively impact workplace safety

The fact that HVLS fans are cordless is also a significant benefit in terms of safety within a commercial space. Fewer cords equate to fewer tripping hazards, which is a critical consideration in higher-risk work environments.

The aforementioned ability of these systems to reduce moisture can also help reduce fall hazards that can exist when condensation accumulates on the floor. Such condensation can also produce rust and corrosion. An added benefit of high-volume airflow is reduced degradation of metals and other materials within the workplace.

Significant ROI

HVLS fans come in a variety of models and sizes, but the cost is generally $3,000-$9,000. Considering the benefits outlined above and potential to positively impact employee health, productivity and satisfaction, an HVLS fan can offer a great return on investment (ROI) for employers.

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