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.

The Importance of Indoor Air Quality in Older Buildings

Jennifer Crowley
Jul 4, 2024
5 min read

Updated: Jul 8, 2024

Older building rooftop ventilation — Older buildings often face several air quality challenges due to years of accumulated wear and tear and outdated construction practices.

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a critical aspect of building management that directly affects the health and well-being of occupants. This importance is magnified in older buildings, where outdated infrastructure, prolonged wear and tear, and the presence of potentially hazardous materials can significantly compromise air quality.

For building owners and facility managers, ensuring good air quality in older buildings is not just a matter of comfort; it is essential for maintaining the health and safety of those who live and work in these environments. Poor IAQ in such buildings can lead to various health issues, decreased productivity, and non-compliance with modern regulatory standards, making it a fundamental concern that demands urgent action.

Common Air Quality Issues in Older Buildings

Older buildings often face several air quality challenges due to years of accumulated wear and tear and outdated construction practices. These issues can severely impact IAQ, making it crucial to identify and address them to ensure a healthy living and working environment. Common air quality problems in older buildings include:

Mold and Mildew: Due to water damage or high humidity, mold and mildew can thrive in older buildings, releasing spores into the air.
Dust and Allergens: Accumulated dust and debris in older buildings can harbor allergens, worsening respiratory conditions.
Outdated HVAC Systems: Inefficient and outdated HVAC systems may not adequately filter air, leading to the circulation of pollutants.
Asbestos and Lead: Many older buildings still contain asbestos and lead-based materials, which can pose serious health risks if disturbed.
Chemical Pollutants: Use of old construction materials and maintenance products can introduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the indoor environment.

Health Impacts

Young multi-racial woman clutching her chest and coughing while attempting to use a rescue inhaler — Exposure to contaminants seen in older buildings can result in many adverse health effects.

The poor indoor air quality in older buildings can lead to numerous health problems for occupants, emphasizing the need for immediate attention. Exposure to contaminants commonly found in older buildings can result in a range of adverse health effects, including:

Respiratory Issues: Exposure to mold spores, dust, and other airborne pollutants can exacerbate asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions.
Allergies: Increased levels of allergens such as dust mites and pollen can trigger allergic reactions, leading to discomfort and reduced quality of life.
Productivity Loss: Poor air quality can cause headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, reducing productivity and overall well-being.
Long-Term Health Risks: Chronic exposure to pollutants like asbestos and lead can lead to severe health conditions, including cancer and neurological disorders.

Regulatory Concerns in Older Buildings

Ensuring compliance with air quality standards and regulations is critical for older buildings, as failing to meet these requirements can lead to significant health risks and legal issues. Both Canada and the US have established stringent guidelines to protect indoor air quality, but older buildings often struggle to meet these standards due to several factors:

Canadian Regulations:

Health Canada: Sets IAQ guidelines that include maximum acceptable concentrations for common indoor pollutants such as carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and mold spores. Older buildings might not have adequate ventilation systems to meet these guidelines.
National Building Code of Canada: Requires proper ventilation and air filtration systems to maintain acceptable IAQ. Many older buildings were constructed before these codes were established, leading to inadequate ventilation and outdated HVAC systems.
Provincial Regulations: Provinces like Ontario have specific requirements under the Ontario Building Code, focusing on ventilation and mold prevention. Older buildings often lack the modern infrastructure necessary to comply with these regulations. The Canadian Centre for Occupation Health and Safety provides a great resource to link to provincial guidance.
See also ASHRAE Standards below

United States Regulations:

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Establishes IAQ guidelines and provides resources for maintaining healthy air in buildings. The EPA’s standards include acceptable levels for various indoor pollutants. Older buildings often have outdated or poorly maintained HVAC systems that fail to filter out pollutants effectively.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): Mandates safe working conditions, including standards for indoor air quality in workplaces. Older buildings may not meet these standards due to deteriorating infrastructure and lack of modern air purification systems.
ASHRAE Standards: The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers sets voluntary IAQ standards that are widely adopted, covering ventilation rates and air filtration. Older buildings may not have been designed to meet these standards, resulting in subpar IAQ.

Older buildings often fail to meet these standards due to outdated infrastructure and lack of modern air filtration systems, which can result in regulatory fines and increased health risks for occupants. Additionally, many of these buildings were constructed before current IAQ standards were established, making retrofitting necessary but often challenging and costly.

Indoor Air Quality in Older Buildings Case Study

Distillery District Project Design image — Click on the image to watch a video version of the full Distillery District Case Study

Toronto Distillery District Energy Efficiency & IAQ Project

The Historic Gooderham & Worts Distillery District, opened in 2003, is widely regarded as Ontario's premier arts, culture, and entertainment destination, and one of its hottest tourist attractions. This internationally acclaimed village features brick-lined streets and 47 vibrantly restored 19th-century Victorian industrial buildings. As a major dining, shopping, and cultural hub in Toronto, Canada, the importance of maintaining and upgrading these historic buildings to achieve better indoor air quality (IAQ) is paramount.

Blade Air Electromagnetic Pro Filter — Blade Air Pro Filters capture particles 40 times smaller than traditional filters.

In December 2021, the Distillery District management team sought Blade Air's help to improve IAQ without the high costs and energy demands of HEPA or UV solutions. They needed an efficient, cost-effective solution to enhance air quality while reducing their carbon footprint.

Blade Air recommended their Pro Filter electromagnetic filters, which outperform HEPA filters in capturing particulate matter and inactivating viruses, with significantly lower energy requirements. The Distillery District conducted trials in two buildings, resulting in impressive outcomes:

Energy Savings: Up to 75% reduction in fan motor consumption.
Improved Filtration: 2.25 times better performance in capturing and removing bacteria from the airstream compared to MERV-13 filters.
Enhanced Air Quality: Significant improvement in indoor air quality, creating a healthier environment for occupants.
Cost-Effective Solution: Achieved high efficiency and superior air quality without the prohibitive costs of HEPA or UV solutions.

Upgrading these historic buildings with modern air quality solutions ensures they continue to be a safe, healthy, and attractive destination for visitors and tenants alike. Click here to read the full Case Study.

Blade Air IAQ Solutions

For building owners and facility managers, addressing IAQ is not just a regulatory requirement but a fundamental concern that directly impacts the health and satisfaction of occupants. The adverse effects of poor air quality, from respiratory issues to productivity loss, highlight the need for immediate action.

Blade Air is Your Trusted Partner in IAQ for Older Buildings.

By implementing Blade Air’s solutions, you can ensure your building meets and exceeds current air quality standards, safeguarding health, avoiding potential legal and financial repercussions, and creating safer, healthier environments for everyone.

Blade Air is dedicated to providing expert guidance and retrofitting services to help you achieve these goals. Contact Blade Air today to learn how we can help transform the air quality in your building, ensuring a healthier and more comfortable environment for all occupants.

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