Commercial HVAC and Air Duct Cleaning

Your business operations shouldn’t have to come to a stop because of poor air quality. In fact, healthy HVAC and air ducts systems are important to a well-functioning commercial property. So, how exactly should you go about cleaning your commercial HVAC and air duct systems, and when should you bring in SERVPRO^®?

What are the Most Common Types of Commercial HVAC Systems?

According to Summit College, there are three common types of commercial HVAC systems. They include:

• Single Split Systems. This type of commercial HVAC system is typically used for smaller commercial properties. They tend to be less expensive than other types and are self-contained, meaning they heat and cool individual rooms. A major benefit of this type of commercial HVAC system is that with their self-contained structure, if one unit breaks down and stops providing heat or air to a particular room, it won’t affect another one.
• Multi Split Systems. Although they are similar to single split systems, a major difference with multi split HVAC systems is that they can connect up to nine multiple indoor units, using only one outdoor unit. This type of system is also energy efficient, using sensors to notice changes in temperature and adjust accordingly. They also use heat pumps, which can help save on costs.
• VRF Systems. VRF stands for “Variable Refrigerant Flow.” This type of commercial HVAC system is ideal for larger commercial properties like hotels and offices. Notably, while VRF systems can provide heating and cooling to the same property, it cannot provide both simultaneously. As Summit College notes, this makes it particularly useful for buildings with open floor plans.

How Often Should Commercial HVAC Systems be Cleaned?

The Department of Energy and Environment recommends regular maintenance of commercial HVAC systems. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends duct cleaning on an as-needed basis, depending on the level of contaminants present (including mold, vermin, dust, and more). Ultimately, it can depend on a variety of factors, including the size of your building, amount of HVAC systems and air ducts, and more.

The Importance of Keeping Your Commercial HVAC and Air Duct Systems Clean

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) outlines various benefits for cleaning HVAC and air duct systems for both homes and commercial properties. They include:

• Indoor Air Quality. Dust, chemicals, particulates, dander, and more can regularly circulate through your property if your HVAC systems and air ducts are not regularly cleaned and maintained.
• Energy Savings. If contaminants or various types of blockages are present in your HVAC system or air ducts, it might be working harder to deliver the same output. This lack of efficiency can increase costs and may decrease the lifespan of the system.

The good news is that SERVPRO’s professional cleaning technicians follow industry standards for the air duct cleaning process, as defined by NADCA.

How to Clean Commercial HVAC Systems

NADCA goes on to outline how to clean HVAC systems, noting there are two overall parts of the cleaning process: breaking up contaminants, and collecting contaminants. While you may be able to clean some of the HVAC system and air ducts yourself, SERVPRO will arrive with equipment and established processes to help with thorough cleanup. This involves gaining access to the air ducts via existing service openings, return grills, duct end caps, or more, if possible. Then, after breaking up contaminants by hand or with a vacuum, various equipment and chemicals are employed to help disinfect and deodorize your air ducts.

Keep in mind, whether you attempt cleanup yourself, or allow SERVPRO professionals to help, only chemicals registered with the EPA should be used.

SERVPRO Offers 24-Hour Commercial Duct Cleaning Services

When your HVAC or air duct system requires thorough cleaning beyond what you can handle, SERVPRO is Here to Help^®. With 2240 SERVPRO locations in the United States and Canada, there is a location nearby, ready to assist you with all manner of HVAC and air duct cleaning in your commercial property. Find your local SERVPRO today and give us a call.

Established in 1967, SERVPRO is the #1 choice in fire and water cleanup and restoration* for a reason. Beyond commercial HVAC and air duct cleaning, SERVPRO professionals across North America also offer water damage restoration, fire damage cleanup, mold remediation, reconstruction services, and additional cleanup and restoration offerings, for your home, business, and more.

To find out more about SERVPRO and the cleanup and restoration industry, visit our FAQ and Glossary.