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As a business owner, you want to make sure that your employees are able to perform at their best. However, you might not realise just how much of an impact temperature can have on your team. In this guide, we’ll show you how commercial air conditioning can help to boost staff productivity and comfort, and explore how the right system can become a strategic investment for your business.
How does working temperature affect performance?
All of us have experienced the discomfort that comes with working in an office or warehouse that’s either too hot or too cold. It shouldn’t come as a surprise, then, to learn that the environment you work in affects how well you’re able to do your job.
If your workplace is too warm, you may notice the following effects on your team:
- Mental fatigue
- Increased irritability
- Lower productivity
- More frequent breaks
- Higher absenteeism
Additionally, poor ventilation or excessive heat can lead to “thermal discomfort”, causing staff to feel sluggish or distracted. This can ultimately affect output and job satisfaction.
What the stats say
Here are some of the key figures you need to know about the link between working temperature and staff productivity:- The optimal office temperature is typically between 21°C and 23°C
- Each degree increase above the optimal temperature range can result in a 2% decrease in productivity
- Hot days in Great Britain (28°C or above) reduce productivity by an estimated £1.2bn per year
- 89% of UK office workers report losing productivity when the temperature isn’t ideal
- A survey by the ASHRAE revealed that 90% of employees report improved comfort and productivity in air-conditioned offices
What are the legal requirements for workplace temperature?
Maintaining an appropriate workplace temperature isn’t just beneficial for your staff – it’s also a legal requirement. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 state:
“During working hours, the temperature in all workplaces inside buildings shall be reasonable.”
That word ‘reasonable’ may seem a bit vague, and indeed there are no specific legal minimum or maximum temperatures to which businesses must adhere. Nevertheless, the HSE recommends a minimum of:
- 16°C, or
- 13°C for jobs requiring regular ‘rigorous physical effort’
While there is no set maximum working temperature, the HSE provides guidance on how to keep workers comfortable in warm conditions. This includes providing ‘air cooling or air conditioning and adequate ventilation’. Doing so helps to maintain employees’ thermal comfort, which in turn improves health and safety across your business.
Which is the right commercial air conditioning system for your business?
Choosing the appropriate air conditioning system depends on various factors. These include the size and layout of your building; energy efficiency ratings; the levels of noise generated by the system; whether you need smart or zoning controls; and heating capabilities for the winter months.
Once you’ve taken all of these factors into account, it’s time to start looking into the different types of system available to you. Some of the most common commercial air con systems used by UK businesses are:
- Split systems: a great choice for smaller workplaces
- Multi-split systems: control temperatures across multiple rooms
- VRF/VRV systems: ideal for larger buildings and offering individual control for different zones
- Ducted systems: a more discreet and aesthetically pleasing solution
For full details, read our guide to commercial air con installation. Before you decide, be sure to consult with HVAC specialists, such as the team at Inergy, to determine the best solution for your business’s needs.
Air conditioning and air quality
When you think of a commercial air conditioning system, you might assume that its only purpose is to keep your business cooler. Did you know, however, that it can also enhance the air quality in your office or warehouse?
Modern air conditioning systems filter out dust, allergens, and pollutant as well as cooling the air. These systems create a healthier workspace, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and allergies. This improvement in air quality can lead to decreased absenteeism and increased overall well-being among employees.
Consistent temperature control
Modern AC systems allow businesses to maintain stable temperatures year-round. During summer heatwaves, especially in southern UK cities, an effective cooling solution can prevent heat-related fatigue and irritability. In colder months, reverse-cycle systems can double as heating units, keeping your workplace warm and energy-efficient.
Future-proofing
As global temperatures rise, hot days here in the UK are likely to become ever more common. Indeed, a report by the UK Green Building Council warns that modern buildings, particularly in London and the southeast, are increasingly vulnerable to overheating due to climate change. Investing in the right system now will help you to create a comfortable office atmosphere for years to come.
Zoned comfort control
Zoning capabilities allow different areas of your building to be cooled or heated separately. This reduces energy waste and resolves the all-too-common “too hot / too cold” disputes among staff, improving harmony and satisfaction.
Humidity regulation
High humidity can cause discomfort, mould growth, and equipment deterioration, while air that’s too dry can irritate skin and eyes. A balanced system ensures consistent humidity levels, contributing to staff wellbeing and protecting valuable assets.
How can you keep your air con system running long-term?
Even the best air conditioning system needs regular servicing to operate efficiently. Planned preventative maintenance (PPM) reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns, keeps running costs low, and ensures consistent comfort levels for staff. To learn more, visit our HVAC maintenance services page.
Commercial air con and staff productivity: the bottom line
Comfortable employees are productive employees. Investing in a high-quality, energy-efficient commercial air conditioning system is one of the smartest moves your business can make. Not only does it support staff wellbeing and productivity—it also demonstrates your commitment to a modern, healthy working environment.
Whether you’re outfitting a new office or upgrading an existing system, the benefits of commercial AC go far beyond temperature control.
If you need help choosing the right solution, Inergy is here to help. Get in touch with us today to discuss tailored air conditioning options for your workplace. Our expert team can guide you from system design to installation and maintenance.
FAQs
What is the ideal office temperature for productivity?
The optimal office temperature for productivity typically falls between 21°C and 23°C. Studies suggest that performance begins to decline when indoor temperatures rise above 25°C, especially in high-concentration tasks.
Is air conditioning a legal requirement in UK workplaces?
No, air conditioning is not a legal requirement. However, under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, employers must ensure a “reasonable” indoor temperature—typically interpreted as no lower than 16°C (or 13°C for physical work), with adequate ventilation.
Can poor air quality affect employee performance?
Yes. Poor indoor air quality—often due to high CO₂ levels or allergens—can lead to headaches, fatigue, and reduced concentration. A well-maintained AC system helps filter out pollutants and maintain healthier air circulation.
How often should a commercial air conditioning system be serviced?
Commercial systems should be professionally serviced at least twice a year—ideally before peak heating and cooling seasons. Regular maintenance ensures efficiency, prevents breakdowns, and maintains consistent comfort levels.
Can air conditioning be energy-efficient and eco-friendly?
Absolutely. Modern commercial AC systems feature energy-saving technologies, smart zoning, and eco-friendly refrigerants like R32. Choosing the right system can lower your carbon footprint while improving comfort.
Is it possible to integrate air conditioning systems with smart building technologies?
Yes, many modern systems can be integrated with smart technologies, allowing for automated controls and improved energy management.
