A makeup air unit (MAU) supplies fresh outside air to replace air removed by exhaust systems, maintaining proper building pressure and air quality in commercial and industrial facilities. These units condition and deliver outside air to offset exhaust losses, preventing negative pressure that can draw in uncontrolled outside air and create drafts. Makeup air is essential in kitchens, laboratories, manufacturing facilities, and any space with significant exhaust ventilation.
Technical Specifications and Equipment
Makeup air units contain filters, heating and cooling coils, and fans sized to match building exhaust CFM requirements. Standard MAUs provide 400 to 10,000 CFM depending on facility size and process exhaust rates. Units include outside air dampers, return air dampers, and controls to regulate supply air temperature to 55 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Energy recovery ventilators can be integrated to reduce heating and cooling loads, improving operational efficiency.
Building Performance and Comfort
Properly sized makeup air units maintain positive or neutral building pressure, prevent odor infiltration, and reduce outdoor pollution entry. They eliminate uncomfortable drafts and pressure differences that affect door operation and worker comfort. In commercial kitchens and industrial facilities, makeup air systems are required by building codes and ensure worker safety by preventing carbon monoxide accumulation and maintaining healthy indoor air quality.