FAQ   & LINKS TO SUPPORT HVAC SYSTEM CLEANING

Indoor Air Professionals makes the following resources and references available to facility and building trade professionals in order to guide decisions for cleaning HVAC systems.

WHY Do It?

"As part of their normal operation, HVAC systems can accumulate considerable amounts of dirt, debris, allergens, and other particulates over a period of time. The HVAC system often involves moisture which can support the growth and colonization of bacterial and fungal microoganisms...HVAC equipment and systems containing excessive debris, whether inert particles or microorganisms, have been shown to use more energy, distribute poorly conditioned air, and accelerate degradation of the system components."* Consequences of dirty systems also include: lost productivity due to absenteeism and health issues, adverse impact on product quality control, and increased liability associated with "sick building syndrome".  For a more detailed explanation of the financial consequences click here.

*ANSI / ACCA 6 HVAC System Cleanliness -2007   

WHO Says Ductwork Should be Cleaned?

Authoritative references include: US EPA, NIOSH, CDC, ASHRAE, JCAHO, OSHA, NYS Executive Order 111, IICRC, SMACNA, LEED, ACCA (ANSI standard 6 HVAC System Cleanliness). Most cite NADCA's ACR-2006 standard. More detail on above references: click here. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association's (NADCA) ACR-2006 Standard is recognized as the authoritative standard for cleaning HVAC / ductwork systems.

WHEN Should HVAC / Ductwork Systems be Cleaned?

   Renovation, Retrofit, New Construction

HVAC systems often collect significant amounts of debris and particulate during construction activities within in a building. It is highly recommended that newly installed HVAC units, especially if existing ductwork is reused, or HVAC systems undergoing renovation projects be inspected and cleaned, if necessary.

   Occupant Complaints - Excess Dust or Indoor AIr Quality

Dust spewing out of diffusers or unsightly conditions on ceiling tiles and outlets are indicators of perhaps worse conditions within the system. Any IAQ evaluation should assess the relative cleanliness of the HVAC / ductwork system.

   As Part of Any Preventative Maintenance Program 

Ductwork cleanliness should be routinely inspected by visual means as part of a facility's preventative maintenance or IAQ management program. NADCA's ACR-2006 provides valuable information for inspection schedules (based on building classification), conditions requiring cleaning, and component inspection guidelines (see Section 3, pages 9 & 10 of ACR-2006 - link at top of page).

  As Part of Any Fire and / or Flood Restoration Project

Soot particles emanate into the HVAC / ductwork system and create odors and potential health risk. High humidity creates microbial amplification inside dusty ductwork. In general, professional cleaning, deodorizing and, at times, sanitizing treatments are less costly and more time-efficient than system replacement, therefore minimizing property losses. For more detail click here.

HOW Can I Make Sure We Get a Quality Project?

   Contractor Credentials 

Due to the sophistication of most commercial HVAC systems you want to use a contractor who is experienced with commercial facilities and certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA). Following NADCA's ACR-2006 standard "Source Removal" methods, the cleaning process requires environmental expertise with regard to containment of work areas and worker protection.

   Advanced Methods = More Cost Effective Cleaning  

Advanced cleaning methods can minimize the need for frequent access openings, thus providing a more economical project with less disruption to the facility. For comparison of conventional vs the new paradigm in cleaning methods click here.

   Minimum Requirements  / Project Specifications Outline

Due to the specialized nature of HVAC system cleaning, especially involving biological pollutants, adherence to the following minimum requirements will help assure quality results for the project: contractor credentials, technical requirements for cleaning methods, applications of coatings and sanitizers, and post project verification. For a more detailed outline click here.

SEE VIDEO CLIP ON ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY click here

We provide comprehensive training and technology support programs.  These programs include advanced ductwork cleaning and Building Performance / IAQ Monitoring technologies. 

Please Contact Us if you are interested in further consideration of the services of the IAQRC. 1-800-683-0021

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