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Maximizing Your Investment In HVAC System
Cleaning
![]() Page one news
stories about "Sick Buildings" and "Toxic Mold" have brought
the need for clean HVAC / ductwork systems to the forefront.
Frequently identified as amplification sites for microorganisms,
HVAC systems must be properly assessed, and if necessary, cleaned
and sanitized. Proper methods for cleaning and decontamination
are strongly recommended to minimize any adverse environmental
impact. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA),
recognized by the EPA, has developed the industry standard for
assessment and restoration of HVAC systems (Standard ACR-2006),
as well as the professional certifications for contractors (Air
Systems Cleaning Specialist - "ASCS" and Ventilation System
Microbial Remediator - "VSMR"). ![]() Why All The Standards And Credentials For Duct
Cleaning?
![]() The answer is
simple: to help insure a safe and effective project. What can go
wrong? Plenty. For example, if proper containment methods are not
used, excess debris can spew from the system. If not cleaned
thoroughly, residual debris may continue to be discharged from the
diffusers well after the cleaning project. Improper methods and
equipment may damage HVAC components (e.g. coils, inline devices)
and furnishings. Agitation equipment that can't effectively clean
large cleaning zones (e.g. 80 foot runs) with a single access
opening may compromise cleaning effectiveness, or result in
additional access openings which is both expensive and cumbersome.
EPA compliance with application of antimicrobials is also an issue.
The Word files below contains composite specifications for HVAC
system cleaning. ![]() Conduct A
Proper Assessment
![]() In many
cases, e.g. renovation / retrofit projects, the need for ductwork
cleaning is usually obvious, especially when systems are over five
years old. In other cases there may be a need to assess
representative areas of the unit and system for relative
cleanliness. A good visual assessment by an industry certified
person will determine IF cleaning is necessary, WHEN (i.e. schedule
/ timing), and HOW it should be performed. In some cases, photo
documentation is helpful. In other cases, fiber-optic video
inspection devices can extend further into the ductwork and pinpoint
areas of concern. Photo documentation can be valuable in terms of
establishing priorities, schedules, and budgets for multiple HVAC
systems within a facility, or aboard a ship. The PDF file below is a
hygiene rating system that is a useful tool in helping facilities
better assess conditions. ![]() Select Proper Cleaning Methods
![]() To insure
that your HVAC system project is environmentally safe and effective,
methods / equipment must result in the fewest number of access
openings as possible in the ductwork. Access is labor intensive and
disruptive. Further, if agitation devices are removed frequently, it
increases the chances for cross contamination (i.e., brushes full of
debris coming in and out ductwork spew debris in the occupied
space). ![]() |
Specify Advanced Technology
![]() Advanced
cleaning technologies using aerodynamically designed nozzles can go
up to 80 feet in a single direction with a single access opening.
Engineering firms specify these technologies for use in all types of
facilities, including hospitals and naval vessels. The unique
feature of advanced cleaning systems is that the aerodynamically
designed nozzles are powered by high volume, high-pressure air. In
order to drive these nozzles, a large compressor that provides a
minimum of 100 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air is required.
See an example of this technology in action. Click here for a 40 second video showing the action from inside the ductwork.
Click on the PDF document below to see a table that compares
conventional and newer high-tech methods.
Qualifications / Conventional vs High Tech HVAC Cleaning
Methods
Contractor Credentials
![]() As evident in the requirements of
NADCA's ACR-2006, the increased sophistication required for
HVAC system cleaning projects requires upgraded contractor qualifications
that include:
- Industry Certification for Air Duct Cleaning
(NADCA)
Note: IAP has among the largest staff of NADCA certified
personnel in the U.S.
- Insurance that includes Contractor's Pollution and Mold coverage.
Other relevant qualifications
include:
- Experience with similar type projects
- Company
focus on ventilation system cleaning, or is it a sideline?
-
Expertise in indoor air quality management
![]()
Measure Other Building Parameters -
Now's The
Time!
![]() Cleaning HVAC
systems is one of the best investments a facility can make to help
insure a safe and healthy environment. To enhance this investment,
other key parameters can be easily and cost effectively measured at
this time. Advancements in web-based monitoring technology can
readily track building performance criteria, energy efficiency, and
other air quality parameters. The end result is a comprehensive
report that can not only report on energy savings and building
performance, but answer the question "How safe is the air I'm
breathing in this building?" The pdf below contains more detail
regarding the parameters measured and how they are reported.
As part of a facility's due diligence documentation, the above
data, along with the photo documentation from the cleaning project
is compiled in an "IAQ Management Program - Compliance Documentation"
binder. This binder is evidence of your IAQ Management program
and can contain additional guideline information to help you
manage indoor air quality.
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Contact us at 800-683-0021 to help you manage your next project.
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