“The ACR Standard provides guidance to professionals as they evaluate the cleanliness of system components,” said NADCA president, Matt Mongiello. “The standard sets an expectation for cleaning and restoring HVAC systems to a specific level of cleanliness.”

The standard provides information for:

• Assessing new and existing HVAC systems;

• Evaluating and verifying the cleanliness of HVAC system components;

• Preventing job related hazards; and

• Guiding the cleaning and restoration of HVAC systems to a specific level of cleanliness.

“It’s important to be sure that the individual or company inspecting your HVAC system is trained and qualified for the job,” said Mongiello. “NADCA certified professionals are equipped with the knowledge and experience to inspect the air handling system and determine the specific needs for cleaning and restoring the unit, when necessary.”

NADCA offers the following tips for determining the need for HVAC cleaning and restoration and suggests systems 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 buildup.

• The system has been discharging visible dirt or debris and is a source of odor.

• The HVAC system has become contaminated with construction debris or dust.

• The HVAC system has been contaminated as a result of fire, smoke, and/or water damage.

The 2013 ACR Standard recommends that inspections of air handling systems be performed both before and after HVAC cleaning and restoration projects. Doing so helps the contractor determine the current state of the system, the scope of work that needs to be performed, and the tools and equipment needed for task.

A free copy of the ACR Standard is available by visiting www.nadca.com.

Publication date: 3/18/2013