Employers should always strive to provide a healthy and safe work environment for their employees. Commercial air duct cleaning is the first step to ensuring this happens. Air ducts are important components of the HVAC system in any building, for they are the pathways for air to flow through.
Air duct cleaning involves removing contaminants from the HVAC system pathways. Air duct contaminants include dust, pollen, organic toxins, particles, and microbial agents.
These can be transported by the HVAC system or originate in the following parts of the ventilation system:
- filters
- insulation
- under coil pans
- cooling towers
- evaporative humidifiers
The National Air Duct Cleaning Association (NADCA) helps to set standards and procedures for the cleaning process of HVAC systems.
3 Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning
Both an office building and manufacturing facility should be ventilated properly to ensure peak HVAC performance. One solution to good ventilation is having clean air ducts. There are three main benefits of air duct cleaning.
1. Indoor Air Quality
Keeping air ducts clean keeps harmful allergens, bacteria, and chemicals from contaminating the work environment. The HVAC system improvements in the quality of indoor air can positively affect employees’ moods and productivity.
2. HVAC Efficiency
Commercial air duct cleaning improves airflow, thus making the HVAC system run more efficiently. Clean air ducts prevent blockages in mixing boxes and other terminal boxes that can restrict airflow. Dust buildup on a heating or cooling coil can decrease efficiency, and eventually cause the HVAC system to fail. Clean air ducts can also prevent expensive repairs over time.
3. Energy Savings
Heating and cooling are the largest utility expenses for many businesses. Dirty ductwork can load filters rapidly, causing more stress on the air handler. As a result, more energy is used leading to higher energy costs. Buildup of contaminants in the air ducts cause the HVAC system to work more vigorously to keep the desired temperature.
Clean air ducts optimize the performance of the HVAC system which requires less energy to be used. Less energy equals lower energy bills. The payoff benefits the bottom line for any company over time.
Tips to Prevent Air Duct Contamination
Business owners and building managers can take some preventative measures to ensure the air ducts in their facilities are not contaminated.
- Change filters regularly.
- Make sure there are no leaks. Moisture can enter through leaks or improper installation. Promptly repair any leaks or water damage.
- Watch for condensation or high relative humidity. Moisture is an indicator of potential mold growth.
- Pay attention to cooling coils. They are supposed to remove water from the air.
- Make sure ducts are properly sealed and insulated.
Responsibilities of a Business Owner
According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, (OSHA), one of the causes of poor indoor air quality in commercial buildings is poor upkeep of the HVAC system. Employers are responsible for providing their employees with a safe workplace that does not have any health hazards. They are also required to follow occupational safety and health standards created by OSHA.
6 Signs It’s Time for a Professional Air Duct Cleaning
Business owners must pay attention to certain indicators to determine when to have the air ducts cleaned. Once a professional cleaner is called, the HVAC inspector will search for excess dust, moisture and microbial contamination in the HVAC system. You may need professional air duct cleaning if:
- There is visible mold. Mold can be a health hazard and must be removed immediately. This is an indication that moisture is present in the air ducts.
- Ducts are clogged with excessive amounts of dust.
- Heating and cooling costs have skyrocketed. If you have noticed a continual spike in energy costs, then have your air ducts checked. Chances are you have insulation issues.
- Your business has just completed a remodel or renovation. Drywall dust and debris can add to the buildup in the ducts.
- Employees experience increased allergy symptoms or respiratory problems.
- You suspect pest or insect infestation. If you notice rodent droppings inside the air ducts, call a professional immediately. Infestations pose serious health risks to the building occupants.
Hiring a reputable air duct cleaning company is one of the best decisions you’ll make for your company and employees.
Cates Heating & Cooling is a family owned business servicing the Kansas City area for over 40 years. We’ll provide experienced and knowledgeable technicians to service your HVAC systems. We can handle any type of building: industrial, manufacturing, retail, restaurants and theaters.
This post is a guest blog from St. Louis Cleaning and Restoration. We perform commercial air duct cleaning, as well as mold remediation, fire damage and water restoration for residential and commercial clients in the St. Louis, Missouri area.
