HVAC Mold Remediation Guidelines

Due to their varied location in homes and buildings, as well as the insipid nature of water, it is very easy for heating and cooling ventilation units to become partially or fully submerged during storms and floods. Hurricanes pose a similar threat along coastlines, and HVAC units are particularly susceptible to high levels of flooding and floating debris. Water naturally brings with it an assortment of bacteria, fungi, debris, dirt, and other microorganisms. These plants and animals can take up residence in the HVAC unit very quickly and even proliferate under these conditions. The CDC recommends certain guidelines should be followed when performing mold remediation on heating and cooling ventilation units.

Some of the mold remediation precautions must take into account whether or not the building is going to remain partly occupied during the cleaning. This is especially applicable for taller buildings in which the upper floors were not damaged, but extensive cleaning needs to be done on the ground floors. If some HVAC units within an extensive network must be cleaned while the others remain functional, take the time to isolate the moldy HVAC units with tape and plastic. Any type of barrier that is effective against vapor will work and adding efficient particulate air filters can help expedite the process.

It is extremely important that any workers performing mold remediation wear appropriate protective clothing and take the necessary precautions. The workers must wear respirators that are approved as sufficient barriers against airborne bacteria and microorganisms. If the visible contamination is very high, the respirator may be supplemented with a powered air purifier or HEPA filter. Often during mold remediation, the team will use very harsh chemicals to clean the area. It is important to protect skin and airways from these harsh chemical vapors as well.

Mold remediation involves a lot of work. All insulation that has been contaminated by the flooding or storm waters must be removed and disposed of. HVAC filters that have been wet must also be replaced, along with any other insulation or filters within the building or HVAC system. Once all of the surfaces are cleansed of dirt and surface debris, it is important to disinfect the entire system with harsh chemicals that can clean what the eye can’t see. If you are using bleach to disinfect the area, take care not to mix it with any products that contain ammonia. Once the surface has been adequately disinfected, follow with a rinse of clean water that may or may not be steamed or highly pressurized. Adding steam or pressure to the clean water rinse usually depends on the amount of dirt and debris that was initially present.

Once the HVAC system is cleaned, disinfected, and put back together, a qualified professional should be consulted. He or she will be able to evaluate the performance of the HVAC system and let you know if any further maintenance or cleaning is required.