What are the standard rules for cleaning and maintaining HVAC systems?

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recently issued a new industry standard, ACR 2013, which defines the minimum performance and requirements for the assessment, cleaning and restoration of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units. The standard focuses on preventing job-related hazards such as exposure to workers and occupants, as well as cross-contamination to the indoor environment.

Here are some tips for determining the need for HVAC cleaning and restoration. It’s suggested that systems should be cleaned when one or more of the following conditions exist:

• The HVAC system is contaminated with an accumulation of particulate;
• The system’s performance is compromised due to contamination build up;
• The system has been discharging visible dirt or debris and is a source of odour;
• The HVAC system has become contaminated with construction debris or dust; and/or
• The HVAC system has been contaminated as a result of fire, smoke and/or water damage.

Jodi Araujo is executive director of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association.