Global Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems Market to Reach US$11.5 Billion by 2030

The global market for Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems estimated at US$7.2 Billion in the year 2024, is expected to reach US$11.5 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.1% over the analysis period 2024-2030. New Construction, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 7.8% CAGR and reach US$6.9 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Retrofit segment is estimated at 8.5% CAGR over the analysis period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$2.0 Billion While China is Forecast to Grow at 7.6% CAGR

The Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems market in the U.S. is estimated at US$2.0 Billion in the year 2024. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$1.8 Billion by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 7.6% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 7.8% and 6.7% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 6.9% CAGR.

Global Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS) Market – Key Trends & Drivers Summarized

What Are Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS) and Why Are They Important in HVAC Applications?

Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS) are specialized HVAC systems designed to condition and manage the intake of fresh outdoor air separately from the indoor air recirculation system. Unlike traditional HVAC systems, which simultaneously handle both ventilation and temperature control, DOAS units are specifically dedicated to bringing in and conditioning outdoor air for ventilation purposes. This approach enhances indoor air quality by continuously providing fresh, filtered air, maintaining proper humidity levels, and helping meet stringent ventilation requirements, especially in commercial, educational, and healthcare facilities where air quality is a priority.

DOAS are essential for environments that require precise control of indoor air quality and humidity levels, such as hospitals, schools, office buildings, and hotels. By treating outdoor air independently, DOAS units prevent issues like overcooling or overheating that can occur with mixed-air systems, optimizing energy efficiency while maintaining occupant comfort. Additionally, DOAS systems help meet ventilation standards, such as ASHRAE and LEED requirements, which are becoming increasingly relevant as building codes evolve to prioritize healthy indoor environments. The result is an HVAC solution that promotes occupant well-being, energy efficiency, and regulatory compliance, making DOAS a valuable addition to modern building ventilation strategies.

How Are Technological Advancements Shaping Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems?

Technological advancements in heat recovery, dehumidification, and control systems are significantly enhancing the capabilities of Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems. One of the most impactful developments is in energy recovery technology, where devices like energy recovery wheels, heat exchangers, and enthalpy wheels are integrated into DOAS units to capture and repurpose heat and moisture from exhaust air, reducing the energy required to condition incoming outdoor air. This leads to substantial energy savings, making DOAS an environmentally friendly and cost-effective choice for large buildings with high ventilation needs.

Advancements in sensor technology and building automation systems have also improved DOAS performance by enabling more precise control over ventilation rates, humidity levels, and temperature. Integrated sensors continuously monitor CO2 levels, humidity, and occupancy, allowing DOAS units to adjust ventilation dynamically based on real-time conditions. This demand-controlled ventilation optimizes energy use, ensuring that fresh air is provided only when needed. Moreover, smart thermostats and IoT-enabled systems offer remote monitoring and management capabilities, giving facility managers greater control over DOAS performance, predictive maintenance, and energy efficiency. These technological innovations make DOAS systems more efficient, reliable, and adaptable to the varying demands of modern buildings.

Why Is There Growing Demand for DOAS in Commercial and Institutional Buildings?

The demand for DOAS is increasing in commercial and institutional buildings due to heightened awareness of indoor air quality (IAQ), energy efficiency standards, and regulatory requirements. Indoor air quality has become a critical focus for businesses and institutions, particularly in the wake of global health concerns and the recognition that poor air quality can impact occupant health, productivity, and well-being. DOAS provides continuous ventilation with precise filtration, helping to minimize contaminants, allergens, and pollutants, making it ideal for buildings that accommodate high foot traffic, such as offices, schools, and hospitals.

In addition, commercial building codes and energy standards, such as ASHRAE 62.1 and LEED, are driving demand for systems that can meet stringent ventilation and energy efficiency requirements. DOAS units are designed to deliver fresh air without overtaxing the building’s HVAC system, resulting in significant energy savings compared to traditional mixed-air systems. In institutional settings, like universities and healthcare facilities, where compliance and operational efficiency are paramount, DOAS supports regulatory compliance while maintaining occupant comfort and energy cost savings. This rising focus on air quality, coupled with evolving energy standards, has made DOAS an increasingly popular solution in the commercial and institutional sectors.

What Factors Are Driving Growth in the Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems Market?

The growth in the Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems market is driven by increased focus on indoor air quality, rising energy efficiency standards, advancements in HVAC technology, and the expanding commercial building sector. As businesses and institutions prioritize IAQ to support healthier indoor environments, DOAS offers an effective solution for continuous, filtered ventilation that aligns with health and safety standards. The importance of IAQ has been further emphasized by the global pandemic, which has led to an increased demand for systems that can improve ventilation and reduce airborne contaminants in indoor spaces.

Energy efficiency is another major growth driver, as DOAS systems are designed to provide fresh air without overloading the main HVAC system, resulting in lower energy costs. Many modern DOAS units include energy recovery components that capture and reuse energy from exhaust air, maximizing efficiency. Technological advancements, such as smart sensors, IoT integration, and advanced dehumidification systems, also make DOAS more effective and adaptable, allowing buildings to meet ventilation needs in an energy-conscious manner. Additionally, the growth of the commercial construction sector, particularly in emerging markets, has created more opportunities for DOAS installations in new and retrofitted buildings. Together, these factors are driving rapid growth in the Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems market, as businesses and institutions seek solutions that promote energy efficiency, air quality, and regulatory compliance.