b'HVAC System and Duct Cleaning, continuedcorrective measure that supports broaderfor cleaning when inspection indicates IAQ management efforts. one or more of the following:Visible accumulation of dust or Restoring Energy Efficiency debrisIAQ is not the only consideration.Reduced system performance due to Energy performance is another criticalcontaminationfactor for districts managing tightOdor issues originating within the operating budgets. HVAC systemThe U.S. Department of EnergyContamination from construction, estimates that 2540 percent of therenovation, fire or water damageenergy used for heating and coolingEvidence of mold growth on non-can be wasted when systems are notporous componentsproperly maintained. NADCAs whitePest infestation within ductwork or paper on restoring energy efficiencyplenumsexplains that particulate buildup onFor schools, optimal timing is typically components such as evaporator coils,during summer break, winter break orof adjacent spacesan issue facilities heating coils, fans and dampers canother extended unoccupied periods.managers already understand from reduce heat transfer and restrict airflow.This minimizes disruption and allowsrenovation and restoration work.Even minor restrictions at multiplefor thorough inspection, cleaning and,In the St. Louis and Kansas City points in the air distribution systemif necessary, restoration of interiorregions, NADCA-member contractorscan lead to measurable losses in systeminsulation or damaged components. including firms such as First Onsite performance. If major renovation or constructionProperty Restorationhave worked with Cleaning evaporator and heating coils,has occurred, post-construction HVACschool districts to coordinate HVAC removing debris from turning vanescleaning is often warranted to removecleaning during off-hours and seasonal and dampers, and addressing buildupconstruction dust and debris beforebreaks, aligning with institutional safety, on fan blades can restore airflow andstudents and staff return. security and scheduling requirements.reduce system strain. In practical terms, this can mean shorter run times to reachWho Should Perform the Work A Practical, Preventive Approachsetpoint temperatures and reduced wearGiven the complexity of school HVACHVAC system cleaning is not a cure-all on equipment. systemsincluding lined ductwork,for IAQ concerns, nor is it a substitute for For facilities managers, HVACopen plenums and variable air volumeproper filtration, moisture control and cleaning should be viewed not as a(VAV) boxescleaning should beroutine maintenance. However, when standalone service, but as one componentperformed by qualified professionalsinspection indicates contamination or of a broader preventive maintenance andfollowing recognized industry standards. compromised performance, cleaning is a energy management strategy. NADCA membership and adherencepractical tool to:to the NADCA ACR Standard bothSupport healthier indoor airWhen to Schedule HVAC Cleaning provide assurance that cleaning methods,Restore designed airflowNADCA does not recommendcontainment practices and cleanlinessImprove energy performancecleaning on a fixed calendar scheduleverification meet industry benchmarks.Protect long-term equipment lifealone. Instead, the ACR Standard callsCertified Ventilation Inspectors (CVI)For facilities managers balancing are trained in structured inspectionhealth, compliance and fiscal methods consistent with EPA guidance. responsibility, integrating periodic Containment during cleaning isHVAC inspection and cleaning into especially important in occupieda comprehensive IAQ management buildings. Engineering controls suchplan is a proactive step that supports as negative air machines and physicalboth building performance and barriers help prevent cross-contaminationoccupant well-being.For more information, contact:Michael Asleson, General ManagerFirst Onsite Property RestorationSt . Louis2685 Metro Blvd ., Maryland Heights, MO 63043Mobile: 314-550-4009Email: michael .asleson@firstonsite .comFIRSTONSITE .COM16|SCHOOL PLANT MANAGER MAGAZINE|SPRING 2026'