NADCA, the HVAC Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Association, an association dedicated to upholding industry standards for cleaning, restoring and maintaining HVAC systems, is educating facility managers on the importance of the ACR, The NADCA Standard.
Updated in 2013, the ACR Standard evolved to include procedural based guidelines, standards of care, and research originating from NADCA, along with associated organizations, into a document that helps facility managers and other professionals determine when, why, and how air ducts should be cleaned. When used properly, the Standard assists in preventing buildings from become ‘sick’ by producing healthy indoor air quality via clean ducts and system components.
“This Standard educates professionals on the importance of keeping HVAC systems clean and how they should be cleaned to ensure a system is functioning properly and efficiently,” said Richard Lantz ASCS, CVI, Standards Committee member. “The research conducted by numerous organizations is very valuable to professionals, especially facility managers, who want to avoid indoor air quality issues.”
ACR, The NADCA Standard provides practical, reliable and industry-backed information for:
- Assessing new and existing HVAC systems
- Evaluating and verifying the cleanliness of HVAC system components
- Preventing job-related hazards
- Guiding the cleaning and restoration of HVAC systems to a specific level of cleanliness
ACR, The NADCA Standard is available for all industry professionals. It can be referenced to ensure buildings are receiving proper attention during standard cleanings, restoration and other projects. The text of the document avoids industry jargon making the information clear and concise for anyone, whether or not they are educated on the HVAC industry. With ACR, professionals can locate air duct information quickly and easily.
“This Standard is meant to guide professionals when it comes to HVAC systems,” said Lantz. “It’s important to be sure that those hired to inspect your HVAC system are qualified for the job. Those who decide to hire a NADCA member will see how members use the document and why it’s important.”
NADCA offers the following tips for determining the need for HVAC cleaning and restoration and suggest 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 build up
- 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
NADCA encourages all facility managers and HVAC professionals to download a free copy of ACR, The NADCA Standard by visiting www.nadca.com.
(Reprinted with permission from NADCA.com)
