Power Vac America
Year End Review
Even though I only got
two newsletters published this year, I was still writing Indoor Air
Quality related articles for other publications. Let me take
this opportunity to summarize for the final newsletter of 2008.
Do you want a new CLEAN
HVAC system or do you want a new DIRTY one?
There is a growing requirement for “post construction” cleaning of
the HVAC systems after construction and prior to turning the
facility over to the owner. Even though this is more common in new
commercial construction specifications we are seeing this
requirement on many new houses as well. Renovations and remodel
projects are a prime candidate for this service. At the end
of the project, the owner wants and is paying for new and CLEAN HVAC
system and ductwork.
Burning Indoor Air
Quality Issues - I often
get calls with customers complaining about black soot like material
all over their return filters, supply registers, etc. Guess what –
it is black soot. Candle burning is the problem. Soot is a
product of incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels, usually
petroleum-based. The soot not only discolors walls and furniture,
it also contaminates their ventilation system.
Energy Saving Proof
is on the Way –The
National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) has engaged a team of
researchers from the University of Colorado to undertake a two-year
study titled “The Correlation Between HVAC System Pressure Drop and
Energy Savings.” This research project will be the first study of
its kind to verify the energy savings associated with system
pressure drop. It is also the first scientific study performed that
will verify that the services ACCA members perform will positively
affect HVAC systems by reducing energy consumption!
ACCA Standard –
Restoring the Cleanliness of HVAC Systems – I’m proud to be
associated with an organization that considers Indoor Air Quality
and HVAC system cleanliness important enough to write a standard.
The standard was developed by ACCA to provide useful, explicit and
workable guidelines that will provide contractors the ability to
differentiate themselves based on additional services provided and
establish performance criteria for all reputable contractors.
Hats Off to Licensed
Contractors - After going through the process of taking the
prep class, tabbing and highlighting all of the books, studying the
table of content, the glossary, and the index every time I got a
chance, and finally taking the Environmental/Class A test, I have a
much higher respect for all of those who have done this before me.
My hat is off to all of you.
IAQ after IKE
– Last but not least. As many of our members are still trying to
repair and recover from the storm and many of our members have a
heavy work load associated with the storm, Indoor Air Quality has
become a major issue because of Ike. There are several standards
that address the issues related to HVAC systems and ductwork after a
flood or water incursion. ACCA has one of these standards
and should help you dealing with your customers.
Air Duct Cleaning in Houston and the
surrounding area
