Rethinking odour control in bin stores: why ventilation and air changes aren't enough

Odour complaints from bin stores and refuse areas are common across residential buildings, commercial premises, and shared facilities. In response, property managers often turn to ventilation systems or increased air changes in an attempt to control the smell. While this can help disperse stale air and reduce carbon dioxide levels, ventilation alone does not neutralise odours,or the bacteria that cause them.

In fact, in many bin stores, increased airflow can have the opposite effect. Moving air may spread unpleasant smells into surrounding areas and keep airborne microorganisms suspended for longer. Additionally, depending on the ventilation design, outdoor pollutants such as mould spores and vehicle emissions may be drawn inside, compromising air quality further.

The problem with relying on air movement
Air change systems work by extracting contaminated air and replacing it with fresh air from outside. But in waste storage areas:
• Odour-causing bacteria are not removed,they continue to multiply on waste surfaces
• Airflow may circulate contaminants, rather than neutralise them
• Humidity and temperature changes can worsen microbial growth

This means that even with good ventilation, bin store odours often persist. Complaints from residents or staff continue, and no true hygiene improvement is achieved.

A better solution: treating the air directly
AIRsteril technology offers a more effective approach. Rather than attempting to dilute contaminants with fresh air, it works by actively neutralising them. Using a combination of ultraviolet light and photocatalytic oxidation, AIRsteril breaks down:
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that create unpleasant smells
• Airborne bacteria and mould spores responsible for hygiene risks
• Odour-causing gases that standard ventilation systems cannot address

Because AIRsteril continuously treats the air within the space, it reduces the build-up of odours and microorganisms,helping to maintain a fresher, more hygienic environment over time.

Proven performance in real-world environments
Independent testing and field use have shown that AIRsteril: • Delivers measurable reductions in mould and bacteria levels
• Controls persistent odours in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces
• Reduces complaints from building occupants and staff

For bin stores, where waste is often stored for hours or days at a time, these benefits are especially valuable. Continuous treatment means odours are addressed at the source, rather than allowed to spread or return after extraction.

Complementing, not replacing, ventilation
While ventilation is important for general air circulation, it is not designed to kill microorganisms or eliminate odours. AIRsteril complements existing systems by actively cleaning the air already present in the space,without requiring increased air changes or structural changes to ductwork.

Odours resolved, hygiene improved
For facilities looking to solve the problem of bin store odours, AIRsteril provides a proven, low-maintenance solution. It offers long-term performance, operates silently, and does not rely on filters or chemical sprays. With AIRsteril, persistent odours are no longer an issue. The result is a fresher, healthier environment that supports both compliance and comfort.