How Poorly Maintained Air Conditioning Lowers Workplace Productivity

Noisy work environment

You can tell the condition of an air conditioner from the noises it makes. And an air conditioner that squeaks, buzzes or grinds needs urgent maintenance. These sounds are all signs that an air conditioning unit part is worn out or about to break.

But when an air conditioner fills a workplace environment with noise, it becomes a distraction. Distracted employees work less efficiently than focused employees do. A study by the University of California, Irvine, discovered that once distracted, it takes about 23 minutes and 15 seconds for a distracted employee to regain their focus. This could drastically reduce workplace productivity.

Poor air quality

Air quality is important when a workforce spends at least several hours a day in a work environment. And if that environment includes customers, such as a restaurant or retail outlet, air quality is even more important.

As they cool the air, air conditioning units create moisture. When in good working order, an air conditioner channels this moisture away. But a poorly maintained air conditioner channels moisture much less efficiently. As a result, moisture builds up inside the unit. Bacteria and mould then begin to thrive in this moist environment.

Unfortunately, a faulty air conditioner will blow bacteria and mould throughout a work environment. This lowers the air quality and causes allergic reactions in rhinitis and asthma sufferers. Respiratory issues can distract employees and lead to a loss of productivity.

Fluctuating temperatures

Air conditioners in dire need of maintenance cause temperature fluctuations. On an especially hot day, for instance, a poorly maintained air conditioner will struggle to cool a room adequately. This will leave staff members working in hot and humid conditions. Not only will this leave them feeling lethargic and stressed, but it will also cause skin rashes and sweating.

Sometimes, air conditioners can turn a room into an arctic zone. This can leave staff with stuffy noses and dry and itchy skin. Freezing temperatures are not conducive to productivity.

Overheating equipment

In an office environment that contains computers and other essential electrical equipment, high temperatures can lead to malfunctions and breakdowns. Computers, especially, function much more efficiently in cool temperatures. That's why regular maintenance is important when you run multiple air conditioners in a workplace.

If your workforce loses time spent trying to operate electronics in a stiflingly hot workplace, productivity will inevitably fall.

Regular water and toilet trips

Another major cause of a drop in workplace productivity is the need for water trips and toilet trips. For instance, during a hot summer, a poorly working air conditioner will cause unbearable conditions. As a result, staff members will need to drink cold water regularly. This will lead to a need for more trips to the toilet. The two side effects come hand in hand.

And in a workplace that relies on teamwork to function well, water and toilet trips can cause a loss of productivity.

Don't underestimate the importance of air conditioning for workplace productivity. A regularly maintained air conditioner makes for a comfortable and pleasant work environment.

If your air conditioners are in need of maintenance, call Cool Air Conditioning Pty Ltd today. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team will help you choose the right maintenance package for your business. We'll help you decide how regularly your air conditioners need maintenance to keep your businesses running optimally.