Maintenance and cleaning of HVAC ventilation systems

Dust and dirt from various sources can build up in the air ducts over time. Three types of cases call for air duct cleaning:

The inner diameter of the duct has been significantly decreased by the accumulation of dust and other solid waste. This results in a reduction in air movement in the room. The motors are also operating at their maximum load, which means that the equipment consumes more electrical energy. These operating conditions can lead to accelerated failures of rubbing elements. Overloads are caused by high temperatures and higher than recommended values for rotor windings. Short circuits can occur quickly as insulation loses its dielectric property. This could lead to the loss of expensive electrical equipment as well as the development of hotbeds of flame with all its negative consequences.

Cleaning ductworks from mechanical impurities restores the initial efficiency of the system and prevents emergencies.

High humidity and high temperatures are the ideal conditions for harmful bacteria and pathogenic microorganism’s reproduction in air ducts. Microorganisms can be spread through all rooms that are connected to HVAC. In the same way, infectious viral diseases can spread during epidemics.

Infections can often be spread through air filters. They can become a source of infection if they aren’t cleaned or replaced promptly.

Algorithm to maintain and clean ac ducts

The first step is to inspect the ductworks and conduct an internal and external inspection of the air ducts.

The integrity of the duct surfaces and the stability of fastenings of all components of the system are checked. Visual inspection is done to assess the condition. Special attention is given to joints and fasteners.

Verifying the electrical equipment’s condition. Revision of electromechanical drives for airflow control and electric motors is performed if necessary. If filters are present, they will need to be maintained or replaced as needed, depending on their technical characteristics.

Cleaning decorative ventilation grilles and removing dirt and dust from exterior surfaces.

The equipment’s characteristics and purpose determine the maintenance that is required.

Checking the standing of commercial air ducts

Special equipment and fixtures are required to test the long lengths and large sizes of air ducts. Modern devices can be used to inspect the internal surfaces.

Mini video cameras can be used as remote manipulators. Cameras can be attached to flexible cables of up to 40m length. To improve the image, a back light is added to the camera. Inspection of the air ducts is done through hatches. Additional holes may be made in remote areas. After inspection, the technological holes are sealed.

Robots. This robot is used to check the condition of large-diameter pipes. Robots equipped with video cameras and controlled remotely.

The data collected is used to create a map showing the technical condition of internal pipeline planes. This is then used to determine the extent and nature of contamination. To determine the best method to clean ventilation systems, inspection data is used.

There are many ways to clean an air duct. The choice of cleaning depends on how severe the contamination is, the air duct size and where they were installed.

The most popular method of cleaning, mechanical cleaning, effectively removes dust, cobwebs, and small particles. It can be used in private houses, commercial buildings, offices, retail spaces, or other areas.

Mechanical equipment is used for cleaning large-sized industrial air ducts. The unit is composed of:

Movable brush. You can choose a different size, as the dimensions of the ducts will affect them. The drive can be carried out by pneumatic or electric motors.

Powerful fan. The fan is connected to the air conduit in the direction of brush movement. The fans are used to remove dust from air ducts.