Indoor Air Quality and HVAC Cleaning

When we think of air quality most of us think of the quality of outside air. But, did you know that studies conducted by the EPA have shown that indoor air can have 3 to 5 times the level of contaminates as outside air? High levels of airborne contaminates can create a host of problems for a building’s occupants, including: flu, allergies, stomach problems, and general lethargy.

Several factors can contribute to poor indoor air quality. In part 2 of this 3-part series we will take a look at how your building's HVAC can contribute to the problem and how to determine if it’s time to clean your system.

A Dirty HVAC - A Contamination Spreader

An HVAC system is a natural magnet for contaminates generated within the interior of any type of facility. Over time, the HVAC collects those contaminates on various components within its system. Ducting surfaces, coils, vents, motors, and flues become layered with a host of contaminates (allergens, bacteria, mould, mites, etc.). When in operation, a heavily contaminated HVAC will blast those contaminates throughout the facility. As a building’s occupants breathe that air they are exposed to those contaminates.

Don't make the mistake of assuming that proper filter cleaning/replacement will completely eliminate the problem. Well-maintained filters are important but they do not address the entire HVAC system.

HVAC Cleaning - Does Your System Need It?

What are some of the indicators that your HVAC system may be in need of a good cleaning? Consider these signs:

• Dirty vents: Remove a few vent covers and take a look inside. Is the inside relatively clean or is it layered with dirt and dust? A dirty surface indicates that a HVAC cleaning may be in order.
• Contaminated air return registers: A simple visual inspection is all that is necessary. Are your returns layered with dust and grime? If so, that is a good indication that your system is in duress.
• Filter Longevity: Are you having to change system filters more frequently? This can be the result of your system generating more contaminates than your filters can handle.
• Dirty HVAC mechanical components: Inspect your system’s fans, motors, controls, etc. Heavy accumulations of dust and dirt are a prime indicator that your system needs to be cleaned.

Once you have determined that a good HVAC cleaning is required you will need to know how to do it. There are tools and techniques than can be employed to help ensure that you end up with an HVAC that is clean and healthy. Please refer to our previous post for some detailed information Removing Airborne Contaminates from Your HVAC System.

In Part 3 of this series we will discuss "Measuring Indoor Air Quality".