An HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system can be a source of contaminants, which can cause poor indoor air quality. One of the key reasons is poorly maintained ductwork. Ductwork contamination prevention is therefore necessary.
Here are some of the strategies you can use to prevent ductwork contamination:
1. Perform routine inspections
While this may depend on the building use, HVAC systems must be inspected at regular intervals. For instance, if you are a healthcare facility, an annual inspection of your HVAC system Salt Lake City is required.
2. Inspect after an incident
If the building is located in a flood-prone zone, the ductwork must be inspected after the flooding. Chances are, rodents and other insects, as well as debris, lingers on it. Mold, bacteria, and other pathogens may also thrive there.
3. Perform scheduled preventive maintenance
HVAC manufacturers specify the schedules of changing the filters and cleaning the coils; comply with these. The ductwork attracts grime and the coils attract biofilm. Both can lead to the accumulation that may compromise air quality when not addressed immediately.
4. Seal ductwork during construction
Debris and dust from construction and renovation work also compromise the ductwork. Seal it to prevent contaminants from accumulating.
5. Maintain occupied areas thoroughly
Good housekeeping can also prolong the life of the ductwork. Housekeeping practices revolve around preventing dirt from entering the building, as well as choosing methods and products that minimize pollutants inside the property.
Signs the ductwork needs cleaning
Regular ductwork inspections will pay off eventually. Ductwork cleaning is necessary if the following circumstances are observed during an investigation:
- Persistent or permanent water damage
- Slime or microbial growth
- Debris buildup
- Dust discharge from diffusers
- Offensive odors
When it is deemed appropriate, contaminants other than those that originate from the ductwork itself must be identified and controlled first. Ductwork cleaning should be part of your HVAC maintenance plan.