HVAC Systems are potential breeding grounds for bacteria, fungi (mold), and a multitude of other contaminants that can spread throughout a facility via the ventilation system. The contaminants and debris found in HVAC Systems can lead to Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) problems, hence heightening the risk of infections in immunocompromised patients in healthcare facilities, and potentially increasing absenteeism and reducing productivity in other commercial settings, vis-à-vis allergic reactions, sinus infections, and a myriad of other problems that could be associated with poor Indoor Air Quality.
Poor Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) if far from the only concern with a dirty HVAC System. Dirt and debris build-up can substantially reduce airflow, thus compromising the performance of the HVAC System, leading to increased risk of mechanical problems, and reduced airflow (possibly leading to higher energy cost). Airflow restrictions are of particular concern in Healthcare facilities where negative and positive pressure measures are critical. Finally, dirt, oil, and other debris can also increase the risk of fire in HVAC Systems - dirt, oils, and other materials can be flammable with the right igniter.
The question now is; what is the condition of my facility's HVAC System? Without a detailed inspection it is virtually impossible to know what potential problems you might be dealing with. The next question is; who can I find to provide an inspection?
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The answer is Hughes Environmental
Your HVAC System will include:
- Digital Photos of a representative portion of the systems ductwork (supply, return, and exhaust).
- Digital Photos of a representative portion of the HVAC System's terminal boxes(e.g. Reheats,VAV Boxes, CAV Boxes, Mixing Boxes).
- All components of the Air Handler Unit.
- A detailed report that will include:
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• Findings from the inspection
• Recommendations based on our findings, in regards to such areas as the need for HVAC Systems cleaning, the need for Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) testing, repair of internally lined insulation, etc.
• All reports will be prepared by a National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) Certified "Air System Cleaning Specialist", and Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) "Certified Indoor Environmentalist", and "Certified Mold Remediator"
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HVAC Cleanliness Inspection Schedule (Recommended Intervals)
Building UseClassification
(see Section 4.1)
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Air Handling Unit |
Supply Ductwork |
Return Ductwork/Exhaust |
Industrial |
1 year |
1 year |
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Residencial |
1 year |
2 year |
2 year |
Light Commercial |
1 year |
2 year |
2 year |
Commercial |
1 year |
2 year |
2 year |
Healthcare |
1 year |
1 year |
1 year |
Marine |
1 year |
1 year |
1 year |
Source: National Air Duct Cleaner’s Association (NADCA). ACR 2002. Assessment, Cleaning, & Restoration of HVAC Systems, Page 6
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