What is IAQP?
ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022 defines the Indoor Air Quality Procedure as an alternative method for ventilation compliance. Unlike the Ventilation Rate Procedure, which relies solely on increasing outdoor air intake, IAQP allows for a more energy conscious approach that considers indoor pollutant levels and the use of air cleaning technologies to recirculate purified air that has already been conditioned.
IAQP focuses on measuring and controlling indoor contaminants like VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), such as formaldehyde, and particulate matter, allowing schools to tailor their ventilation strategies to real conditions rather than fixed formulas. This can lead to significant energy savings and better control of indoor air quality, particularly in climates where bringing in large volumes of outside air is energy intensive.
Why Schools Are Choosing IAQP
Energy Efficiency Through Reduced Outdoor Air Intake
Traditional ventilation strategies require bringing in large amounts of outdoor air, which can significantly increase heating and cooling loads—especially in regions with extreme weather. IAQP allows schools to reduce outdoor air intake by safely offsetting it with high-performance air purification, leading to dramatic energy savings. This not only cuts utility costs but also reduces strain on aging HVAC systems, extending their useful life.
Healthier Learning Environments
Improved indoor air quality has been linked to better cognitive function, higher test scores, and fewer sick days. By targeting and removing harmful pollutants likeM2.5 and VOCs, IAQP supports a healthier environment for both students and staff. This means more consistent attendance, improved concentration, and a tangible impact on academic performance and well-being.
Lower Capital Costs
IAQP allows schools to meet ventilation standards without upsizing HVAC systems to handle excessive outdoor air requirements. This can result in substantial savings on new construction or renovation projects, as mechanical systems can be designed for lower capacity while still achieving compliance. For existing buildings, this approach often eliminates the need for expensive retrofits or system overhauls.
Stronger School Reputation Through Sustainability and Wellness
Adopting IAQP positions schools as forward-thinking leaders in health and environmental responsibility. By improving indoor air quality and reducing energy use, schools can actively contribute to sustainability and decarbonization goals, while also enhancing occupant wellness. These improvements support schools pursue certifications such as WELL and LEED—demonstrating a clear commitment to creating safe, healthy, and future-ready learning environments that attract families, staff, and community support.
Who Else Is Making the Change?
While IAQP adoption may not be making headlines, a growing number of schools, manufacturing facilities, and office buildings are making the switch. Facilities across the U.S. are using IAQP to modernize air quality strategies without the burden of overhauling mechanical systems, and are already seeing the benefits in energy savings, occupant wellness, and operational flexibility.
These organizations may not always publicize their methods, but their results speak for themselves: measurable improvements in indoor air quality, reduced HVAC loads, and enhanced learning and working environments. As awareness grows and more case studies emerge, IAQP is quickly becoming a best-kept secret in smarter, more sustainable facility management.
AirBox: A Trusted Partner in IAQP Implementation
At AirBox, we understand that adopting IAQP can feel like uncharted territory. That’s why we offer end-to-end engineering support to help schools and other facilities evaluate, design, and deploy IAQP with confidence.
We design our line of commercial-grade High-Volume Purifiers (HVPs) specifically to support IAQP compliance, offering verified filtration efficacy performance against key contaminants like PM2.5, VOCs, and airborne pathogens. AirBox also offers IAQP Verification Testing after implementation to verify the removal of ASHRAE Table 6-5 contaminants.
Whether you’re looking to retrofit an aging HVAC system or design a new facility with IAQP from the ground up, AirBox provides the tools, documentation, and guidance you need to meet standards and surpass expectations.
Thinking about IAQP but not sure if it’s the right move? You’re not alone. Let’s talk about how schools are quietly making the switch and how AirBox can help you do the same, out loud and with confidence.
