Why indoor air quality matters more than you think

Indoor air can be 2–5× more polluted than outdoor air, yet it is often overlooked. People spend around 90% of their time indoors—at home, work, schools, or public spaces. Despite this, there are no enforceable national standards for indoor air quality in many countries, leaving millions exposed to viruses, bacteria, dust, mould, and chemical pollutants. Poor air is invisible. Stuffy rooms, headaches, asthma flare-ups, and allergies are often accepted as normal, masking preventable health risks.

The cost of dirty air is staggering. In New Zealand alone, researchers estimate it costs the country about $1 billion annually in healthcare expenses and lost productivity. Employees in poorly ventilated offices take more sick leave and perform less efficiently. Schools with upgraded ventilation report better attendance and academic results. Across public buildings, poor air quality quietly drives up costs while harming health and performance.

HVAC systems can make the problem worse when they are clogged or inefficient. Systems consume up to 50% of a building’s energy, and dirty filters or fouled coils force them to work harder, increasing electricity bills and maintenance costs. Over time, the hidden cost of poor indoor air can reach thousands per building each year.

Businesses also risk their reputation. Stale hotel lobbies, poorly ventilated hospital rooms, or stuffy offices leave a lasting impression. Guests, patients, and clients notice when air feels heavy. Ignoring air quality can quietly damage trust and credibility.

A smarter, cost-effective solution

HiboScreen tackles indoor air challenges while reducing operational costs. It retrofits into existing HVAC systems and removes over 99% of airborne viruses, bacteria, and fungi. It keeps coils clean, lowers energy use by up to 30%, and requires minimal maintenance.

HiboScreen performs like a high-grade MERV16 filter while using a low-efficiency MERV8 filter plus electroactive static technology. This means safer, cleaner air without high costs or energy waste. With HiboScreen, buildings are healthier, employees perform better, and operating costs drop - making clean air a smart investment.