Facility Changes That Drive 80% of Emissions Savings

The overlooked 20% of building strategies can deliver 80% of emissions savings. Here’s how to reset your 2026 baseline.

Ava Montini

Jan 6, 2026

Written by

Published on

The 80/20 Pattern in Building Decarbonization

In business, the Pareto principle (the idea that 20% of actions create 80% of results) shows up everywhere. It also applies to the way buildings decarbonize.

Most portfolios still treat carbon reduction as a capital-projects problem: new chillers, new boilers, new equipment. These projects are visible, expensive, and easy to headline in ESG reports. But in practice, the biggest near-term gains lie in the systems that are already running every hour of every day.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, space heating, cooling, and ventilation are among the top energy end-uses in commercial buildings, with ventilation alone consuming nearly 10% of the total building energy. Factor in heating and cooling, and the air systems you already own set the floor for your emissions profile. Industry surveys and guidance reinforce this point: HVAC systems consistently account for approximately 40% of energy use in commercial facilities. A share that shifts by climate zone but remains dominant across the board.

Before you buy new megawatts, make the watts you already use travel a shorter, smarter, more efficient path.

Filtration as a carbon multiplier (not a consumable line item)

Why filtration matters for energy (and CO₂e)

Filters impose a pressure drop; fans work against that resistance. Basic fan/affinity laws tell us that pressure rises with the square of fan speed, and fan power typically scales with pressure/flow requirements. Therefore, adding resistance increases fan energy unless the system compensates by reducing the flow.

On variable-speed systems that maintain flow, peer-reviewed work shows roughly linear fan-power response to added system pressure: a 10% rise in total pressure drop ≈ 10% rise in fan electric power (assumes fan and motor efficiencies roughly constant at operating point). CaEE

Field and lab studies show that higher filter resistance reduces supply airflow and can increase total power (especially as filters load), degrading cooling capacity and forcing longer runtimes. Newer research also documents the compounding effects of filter loading, with heavy clogging cutting net supply airflow by >30%, a textbook example of invisible energy waste. ScienceDirect

Moving up in MERV doesn’t automatically mean higher energy costs. Well-designed filters use optimized media and geometry (like deeper pleats or more surface area) to keep airflow resistance low. Studies have shown that these higher-efficiency filters can have a lower pressure drop than inexpensive MERV 8 pleated filters, especially when systems are properly balanced. In other words, it’s the filter’s pressure profile that matters, not just the MERV number. ScienceDirect

If you can lower your filter pressure drop while maintaining or improving capture, you directly reduce continuous fan energy. One of the few all-hours loads in many facilities. Because fans run whenever you condition or ventilate space, these savings translate cleanly into CO₂e reductions (see Section 5 for the math).

Demand-Controlled Ventilation (DCV)

What DCV does

It modulates outside-air intake based on occupancy (CO₂, people-count, scheduling) to avoid conditioning empty spaces. Codes and standards increasingly require or encourage DCV in high-occupancy areas, with ASHRAE 62.1 updates clarifying when and how ventilation turndown is permitted (including addenda that allow reduction to zero OA during verified unoccupied periods in certain space types). ASHRAE

Across building types and climates, published work shows that DCV control logic achieves ~9–33% HVAC energy savings. Advanced rooftop-unit control packages, which incorporate multi-speed/variable fans, DCV, and smarter economizer control, have delivered double-digit fan and cooling savings, sometimes exceeding 20%. Taylor & Francis Online

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) analyses flag that cost-effectiveness depends on the baseline over-ventilation and occupancy patterns; if your current minimums are already close to code, savings shrink. That’s a guidance feature, not a flaw—the point is to measure your baseline VRs before projecting benefits. Energy Technologies Area

DCV is a surgical lever: attack over-ventilation where it exists, prove reductions with trend data, and lock in permanent load reductions; especially valuable in heating-dominated regions where conditioning outside air is expensive in both energy and CO₂e. Energy Codes Guide

Preventative Maintenance

Controls drift, coils foul, dampers stick, sensors mis-calibrate—quietly taxing 5–15% of portfolio energy in many studies. Modern fault detection & diagnostics (FDD) tools and structured maintenance programs quickly recapture that waste. NREL Docs

Coil fouling: Government and academic sources document material energy penalties from dirty coils; some guidance cites compressor energy up to ~30% higher with fouled condensers (case and climate dependent). Even conservative findings confirm meaningful efficiency and capacity degradation. Avoidable with routine cleaning. Energy.gov.au
Economizers & OA paths: Mis-tuned economizers are common and costly; retuning and sensor QA via FDD is repeatedly highlighted in DOE/NREL/PNNL guidance as a top-tier low-cost fix. PNNL
RTU controls refresh: Campaign results and tech briefs demonstrate that advanced RTU control (variable fan, DCV, and economizer optimization) consistently yields energy reductions of more than 20%, with 25–50% reductions cited in certain deployments compared to legacy constant-speed, always-open baselines. Better Buildings Solution Center

Maintenance is mitigation. It’s also Scope 3-friendly: operating equipment at design efficiency extends service life and defers replacements, reducing embodied carbon churn in your capital plan. (See the measurement plan below to make these savings auditable.)

Turning kWh into CO₂e: a quick, defensible method

Your sustainability stakeholders care about tons, not watts. To translate HVAC savings into CO₂e:

Quantify energy from the measure (e.g., fan kWh drop from low-pressure filters; heating/cooling kWh or therms saved from DCV; kWh saved from FDD fixes).
Apply grid or fuel emission factors appropriate to the site(s) and year.
- U.S. electricity (2022 eGRID avg): ≈ 0.393 kg CO₂/kWh (867.5 lb/MWh delivered). US EPA+1
- Canada electricity (2025 factors) vary widely by province—e.g., Ontario: 38 g CO₂e/kWh; Alberta: 490 g CO₂e/kWh. Selecting the right regional factor matters. Canada.ca

If a low-pressure filter reduces fan energy by ~300 kWh/year per unit (magnitude depends on hours, fan size, and baseline pressure):

U.S. eGRID avg: 300 kWh × 0.393 kg/kWh ≈ 118 kg CO₂e/year per filter.
Ontario: 300 kWh × 0.038 kg/kWh ≈ 11 kg CO₂e/year per filter.

This is why portfolios across different grids see very different CO₂e per kWh outcomes. Even when the kWh savings are identical. US EPA

For transparency in ESG filings, reference the EPA eGRID subregion or the Government of Canada tables (or your utility-specific factors) and archive the PDFs used for each reporting year. US EPA

Risk management & IAQ alignment

Stay within ASHRAE 62.1 minimums at all times when spaces are occupied. DCV is about right-sizing, not starving air. Updated addenda clarify occupancy-based turndown rules—use them. ASHRAE
Filter choices: Seek equal or higher capture with lower ΔP; measure clean and loaded ΔP at your own face velocities. Research shows energy impact depends on filter design and system configuration, not only MERV. ScienceDirect
Measurement culture: Treat IAQ and energy as co-optimized objectives by trending PM, CO₂, temperature, and fan power together, so nobody is flying blind.

What this unlocks for 2026 capex

Once you bank the operational tons above, the economics of electrification, heat recovery, and heat pumps improve because you’re sizing for reduced loads. DOE/NREL work on advanced RTU control consistently shows meaningful kWh reductions when variable fans and DCV are layered in—think of these as pre-project multipliers that de-risk later capex. NREL Docs

The Power of the Overlooked 20%

In the rush to decarbonize, it’s tempting to chase the biggest, newest technologies. But the truth is that many of the most reliable carbon savings are already within reach. Hidden in fans, filters, ventilation rates, and maintenance routines.

Filtration, demand-controlled ventilation, and preventative maintenance may not make the headlines, but together they represent the overlooked 20% of actions that can deliver 80% of your emissions savings. They are measurable, repeatable, and scalable across portfolios, exactly the kind of solutions facility leaders need as they enter a new year of climate commitments.

Air Filter Media: Choosing the Best for Improved Indoor Air Quality

Jennifer Crowley
Jul 31, 2023
5 min read

Updated: Jul 9, 2024

Close up photo of various filter media types — When choosing air filter media, it’s important to consider factors such as compatibility with your HVAC system, specific air quality concerns, and maintenance requirements.

One way to improve indoor air quality is by using air filters, which trap airborne particles and pollutants. However, not all air filters are created equal. Air filter media, the material used in air filters to capture particles, can vary widely in terms of effectiveness, lifespan, and cost.

This blog will explore the different types of air filter media available, including pleated and non-pleated filters, fibreglass, paper, and carbon filters. We’ll also discuss the efficiency ratings used to measure air filter effectiveness and the benefits of using high-quality air filter media. When choosing air filter media, it’s important to consider factors such as compatibility with your HVAC system, specific air quality concerns, and maintenance requirements.

By understanding the different types of air filter media available and the factors to consider when choosing them, you can make an informed decision and choose the air filter media that best meets your indoor air quality needs.

Types of Air Filter Media

Air filter media is a material used in air filters to trap and remove harmful particles and allergens from the air. The effectiveness of an air filter depends mainly on the type and quality of the filter media used and the type of material being filtered. Some common types of air filter media are:

Pleated Air Filters

Pleated air filters are made from polyester or cotton and have a longer lifespan than non-pleated filters due to their increased surface area. They can effectively trap particles such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander, making them suitable for residential and commercial settings with high traffic or high air quality needs. Higher MERV-rated filters can capture smaller particles, such as bacteria and smoke. However, they are typically more expensive than non-pleated filters.

Non-Pleated Air Filters

Non-pleated air filters are generally made from materials such as fibreglass or polyester and have a shorter lifespan than pleated air filters. However, they are effective at trapping large particles such as dust and debris, making them ideal for residential settings and protecting HVAC equipment from large particles. They are generally less expensive than pleated air filters but offer lower effectiveness and longevity.

Fibreglass Air Filters

Fibreglass air filters are made from spun glass fibres and are the most economical choice. They typically last for about 30 days before requiring replacement and are less effective at trapping small particles. They are most suitable for residential settings with moderate air quality needs.

Paper Air Filters

Paper air filters are made from pleated paper material and are effective at trapping larger particles, such as dust and pollen, but less effective at capturing smaller particles, such as bacteria and smoke. They typically last for about three months before requiring replacement and are suitable for residential settings with moderate air quality needs. They are generally less expensive than pleated air filters due to their lower MERV rating.

Carbon Air Filters

Carbon air filters are made with activated carbon and are most effective at removing odours and certain chemicals from the air. They typically last for about three months before requiring replacement and are suitable for commercial settings, such as hospitals and laboratories, where odour and chemical removal is a priority. However, they are generally more expensive than other air filter media due to their specialized use and effectiveness.

Efficiency Ratings for Air Filter Media

When choosing an air filter media, it’s important to consider its efficiency rating. The most common efficiency rating systems used are:

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value)
CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate)

MERV Rating

The efficiency rating refers to the ability of an air filter to trap and remove airborne particles of different sizes. The most common rating system used for air filters is the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV), which rates filters on a scale of 1-20 based on their ability to remove particles from the air. The higher the MERV rating, the more effective the filter removes smaller particles.

It’s important to note that while higher MERV-rated filters are more effective at removing smaller particles, they may also restrict airflow more than lower-rated filters. This can cause issues with HVAC system performance and increased energy usage. For this reason, it’s important to consult with an HVAC professional to determine the most appropriate MERV rating for your indoor air quality needs and to ensure that your system can handle the increased airflow resistance that comes with higher MERV-rated filters.

CADR

The CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) is a rating system that measures the amount of clean air delivered by an air purifier or air filter. It is a standardized rating system recognized by the American Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) and is used to compare the performance of air purifiers and air filters from different manufacturers. The higher the CADR rating, the more effective the filter will remove particles from the air.

The CADR rating is calculated based on three categories of particulate matter: smoke, pollen, and dust. Each category is assigned a numerical value, and the overall CADR rating is the sum of the three values.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Air Filter Media

HVAC Compatibility

The first factor to consider when choosing air filter media is compatibility with your HVAC system. Different types of air filters may be designed for specific types of HVAC systems, so it’s important to choose a filter that is compatible with your system. Some filters may also require modifications to your HVAC system, so it’s essential to consult with a professional before making any changes.

Air Quality Concerns

Another factor to consider when choosing air filter media is any specific air quality concerns you may have. For example, if you live in an area with high levels of outdoor pollution, choose an air filter designed to capture smaller particles, such as those found in smoke and exhaust fumes. On the other hand, if you have pets or allergies, you may want to choose an air filter designed to capture pet dander and other allergens.

Maintenance Requirements

Finally, it’s important to consider the maintenance requirements of different types of air filter media. Some filters may need to be replaced more frequently than others, and some may require more intensive cleaning or maintenance. It’s important to choose a filter that you can realistically maintain, as neglecting filter maintenance can lead to reduced effectiveness and increased wear and tear on your HVAC system.

Benefits of High-Quality Air Filter Media

Using high-quality air filter media offers numerous benefits for indoor air quality and overall health. One of the primary benefits is that these filters are more effective at removing airborne particles, such as dust, allergens, and pollutants, from the air. This can significantly reduce indoor air pollution, which is especially important for individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions.

Improved indoor air quality can also have a positive impact on productivity. Studies have shown that indoor air quality can have a significant effect on cognitive function, with poor air quality leading to decreased productivity, reduced concentration, and increased absenteeism. By removing airborne particles and pollutants from the air, high-quality air filter media can help to create a healthier indoor environment that promotes better cognitive function and increased productivity. This is especially important in workspaces, where employees may spend a significant portion of their day indoors.

In addition to health benefits, high-quality air filter media can also be more cost-effective in the long run. While they may initially cost more, their increased efficiency and longer lifespan can result in lower maintenance costs and energy bills over time. Additionally, by improving indoor air quality and reducing the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance, these filters can save homeowners both time and money.

Choosing the right air filter media is crucial for improving indoor air quality. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you understand the different types of air filter media available, their efficiency ratings, and what to consider when choosing one for your home. Remember, always choose high-quality air filter media for the best results.

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