NATIONAL AIR DUCT CLEANERS ASSOCIATION

ACR 2006

Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems

The Industry Standard for HVAC Cleaning Professionals

Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

ACR 2006
Assessment, Cleaning, and Restoration
of HVAC Systems
An Industry Standard Developed by the
National Air Duct Cleaners Association
ACR 2006 Committee Roster
Bill Lundquist - Chairman
Terry Bray
Doug Groen
Brad Kuhlmann
Greg Long
Patrick ODonnell
Channing Starke

Project Management
Sufka & Associates, Inc.
Technical Editor
John Schulte
Published by
NADCA National Air Duct Cleaners Association
1518 K Street, NW, Suite 503
Washington, DC 20005
Copyright 2006 by NADCA
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form
mechanical, electronic or otherwise - without the
prior written permission of the publisher.
Printed in the United States of America.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

Notice
All questions or other communications relating to this document should be sent to NADCA Headquarters, addressed to
the attention of the Standards Committee Chairman. For the procedures to request that the NADCA Standards
Committee issue Formal Interpretations relating to the content of this document, use the form on the last page of this
document to write to the Standards Committee Chairman, National Air Duct Cleaners Association, 1518 K Street, N.W,
Suite 503, Washington DC 20005.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

Assessment, Cleaning, and

Restoration of HVAC Systems
ACR 2006
Table of Contents
Foreword...............................................................................................................................................1
Introduction ...........................................................................................................................................3
Section 1 - General ...............................................................................................................................4
Section 2 - Definitions ...........................................................................................................................4
Section 3 - Determining the Need for HVAC System Cleaning and Restoration...................................9
Section 4 - Project Evaluation and Recommendation .........................................................................11
Section 5 - Environmental Engineering Controls.................................................................................13
Section 6 - HVAC System Cleaning....................................................................................................16
Section 7 - Coil Surface Cleaning ...18
Section 8 - Remediation of Mold and Other Biological Contamination................................................20
Section 9 - Fiber glass Duct System Components..............................................................................21
Section 10 - Restoration and Repair of Mechanical Systems .............................................................22
Section 11 - Project Monitoring ...........................................................................................................23
Section 12 - Health and Safety ...........................................................................................................23
Section 13 - Verification of HVAC System Cleanliness .......................................................................24
Section 14 - Requirements for the Installation of Service Openings in HVAC Systems ....26
Reference Documents ........................................................................................................................28
Guideline to ACR 2006 .......................................................................................................................30

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

Foreword
Assessment, Cleaning, and Restoration of HVAC Systems (ACR 2006) is an industry standard that has evolved from
guidelines, industry standards of care, and research originating from the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA)
along with other organizations dedicated to HVAC system hygiene, remediation and restoration. This standard
establishes criteria for evaluating the cleanliness of HVAC system components, and for cleaning and restoring systems to
a specific cleanliness level as described in Section 13.
ACR 2006 provides recommended inspection frequencies for HVAC systems. HVAC components that should be
evaluated during inspections are described to assist users of this standard in determining when cleaning may be
necessary.
In the assessment sections, ACR 2006 describes the areas of the HVAC system to be evaluated for contamination levels
and the types of contaminants identified. Assessment information may then be used to select appropriate safeguards
such as environmental engineering controls to protect the indoor environment during cleaning. The Guideline section of
this document provides examples of several types of containment engineering strategies that may be employed in
conjunction with an HVAC system cleaning project to control the migration of particulate, unwanted gasses, and vapors.
In the cleaning and restoration sections, ACR 2006 defines acceptable cleaning methods and criteria for cleaning tools
and equipment. Cleaning encompasses the removal of contaminants in order to restore HVAC systems to a specific
cleanliness level as described herein.
ACR 2006 addresses considerations for mold and biological contaminants and the cleaning of fiber glass insulation, duct
liner and duct board. This document also provides requirements for creating service openings within HVAC systems;
safety and health considerations for remediation workers, employees, and occupants; and procedures for monitoring
cleaning projects as they progress.
The Standard also provides methods to verify HVAC system cleanliness. Three separate methods are defined and
have been updated to address mold remediation clearance.
The term HVAC system cleaning is used exclusively throughout this document instead of the common term air duct
cleaning. The requirements of this document encompass the entire HVAC system and its components. To ensure
optimum system performance and environmental conditions, the entire HVAC system should be maintained at the highest
cleanliness levels possible and at an acceptable hygiene condition as described in this Standard.
A Note Regarding Service Openings
The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recognizes the need for service openings in HVAC system
components, including air ducts, to facilitate inspection and/or cleaning. NADCA has expanded ACR 2006 to define
minimum requirements for the proper construction and installation of service openings. This document should be cited in
Project Specifications for HVAC system cleaning projects to insure proper access and closure of system components.
In nearly all HVAC system cleaning projects, it will be necessary to make new service openings in duct walls in order to
insert cleaning and inspection equipment. The creation of service openings, and their subsequent closure, requires
craftsmanship and professional skills. Where possible, access to duct interiors should be made by dismantling the ducts
or through existing openings such as supply diffusers, return grilles, duct end caps, and existing service openings.
This Standard applies to the majority of HVAC systems, regardless of the type of duct construction. Service openings
created in any type of system component must meet or exceed the requirements defined herein.
There are two general types of service openings: removable duct access doors and permanent closure panels. Duct
access doors are designed so they can be re-opened without dismantling or altering the system. Permanent closure
panels are pieces of HVAC system material that are sealed and/or fastened permanently upon closure of the service
opening. Depending on the methods used to seal permanent closure panels, it may be possible to remove and re-install
them. Permanent closure panels sealed with gasketing may be removed and re-installed; whereas those closure panels
sealed with mastic or caulking should not be removed. If new service openings will be used in the future for inspection or
cleaning, then removable duct access doors may be most appropriate.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

The location and size of new service openings is heavily dependent upon the equipment and methodologies the HVAC
system cleaning contractor will use in the project. However, there are certain strategic locations in most systems where
service openings are made to facilitate inspection. Visual inspection of interior HVAC system surfaces is required as
noted in this Standard.
The most common locations for service openings in air ducts include:
Adjacent to turning vanes
Adjacent to dampers (balancing, fire, control, back draft, splitter, etc.)
Mixing & VAV boxes
Adjacent to in-duct electric heat strips
Duct transitions, offsets, and changes of direction
Adjacent to heating, reheat, & cooling coils
Adjacent to all other in-duct mechanical components & sensors
Each of these locations may require one or more service openings to properly access the ducts for cleaning and
inspection. The tools used in the installation of the new service openings should be industry-specific for the type(s) of
duct material and construction techniques commonly found in HVAC systems. Proper installation of new service openings
is dependent on the use of the right tool(s) by trained personnel. Nothing in this Standard is intended to prevent the use
of new methods, materials, or technologies in the installation and closure of service openings, provided that they meet the
requirements prescribed by this Standard.
Poorly constructed service openings may have a negative impact on the HVAC system. An air duct system, when
improperly altered, may compromise the systems structural integrity and fire-rating integrity. Improperly installed service
openings may act as a site for duct leakage. An improperly created or sealed service opening may affect indoor air quality
by serving as a conduit that can expose both the HVAC system and the indoor environment to contaminants. These
potential threats to the safety of the building and its occupants are just two of the reasons for this Standard.
In some areas, the creation of a service opening in an HVAC system may require special licensure from the state or
locality. Most state construction industries are regulated by a licensing board or commission authorized by the state
government, and such organizations should be contacted directly for information about a particular states requirements.
This Standard includes a new chapter in the appendix titled Guidelines for Constructing Service Openings in HVAC
Systems. The information provided in this chapter is intended as a guideline to assist in the further understanding of
HVAC service system opening construction methods, but its contents are not considered requirements under this
Standard unless specified below.
It is highly recommended users of this document consult applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations. NADCA
does not, by the publication of this document, intend to urge action that is not in compliance with applicable laws and this
document must never be construed as doing so. The most stringent requirements of this Standard and applicable federal,
state, and local regulation must apply to the assessment, cleaning, or restoration of HVAC systems. The disclaimer at the
conclusion of this document provides additional important information regarding use of this standard.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

indoor air quality and system performance. This ultimately

led to the creation of industry standards, training and
certification programs for HVAC system cleaning
professionals.

Assessment, Cleaning, and

Restoration of HVAC Systems
ACR 2006

ACR 2006 is the fourth edition of NADCA's standard for

HVAC system cleaning. The first edition, NADCA Standard
1992-01, raised the performance bar for the industry by
establishing the first method to verify post-cleaning
cleanliness levels. The second edition, ACR 2002, built on
the principles established in NADCA Standard 1992-01, but
included many additional provisions for evaluating
cleanliness before cleaning as well as requirements for how
to perform cleaning services.

Introduction
Maintaining clean heating, ventilation and air-conditioning
(HVAC) systems is an important part of sustaining
acceptable indoor air quality (IAQ). When an HVAC system
is a source of contaminants introduced into occupied
spaces, properly performed system cleaning services
should take place to reduce or eliminate contaminant
introduction.

ACR 2005, the third edition, went further than any previous
NADCA standard. It covered the same essential elements
of assessment and cleaning detailed in the previous
documents and also provides more detailed requirements
for managing HVAC system cleaning projects, including
clearly defined conditions that require cleaning. ACR 2005
was revised such that its requirements were in accordance
with the latest standard for mold remediation published by
the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration
Certification (IICRC), S520 - Standard and Reference
Guide for Professional Mold Remediation. By working in
cooperation with representatives from IICRC and other
industry organizations to update the ACR standard, the
2005 edition was a standard that could be utilized not only
as a standard for professional HVAC system cleaning
contractors, but also as a comprehensive reference source
for consumers, facility administrators, engineers, mold
restoration contractors, general contractors, architects, or
HVAC project design consultants.

Contaminants in HVAC systems may take many forms.

Common contaminants include dust particles, active
bacterial or fungal growth, debris from rusted HVAC
components, man-made vitreous fibers, mold spores, and
other items.
Experience has shown that very few (if any) HVAC systems
are free of all particulate. In fact, particle deposition on
component surfaces starts before the HVAC system is even
installed. Airborne particles in factory settings and assembly
areas are likely to settle on air-handling components and
fiber glass insulation, as well as adhere to the surface of
metal components.
The original installation process will subject the HVAC
system to even more contamination. Construction sites
contain a significant amount of airborne concrete dust,
gypsum dust, sand particles, biological particulate aerosols
and many other airborne contaminants in the ambient air.
These particles often settle on or within the HVAC system
during construction.

ACR 2005 was written for commercial, industrial,

healthcare, marine and residential applications. The
Standard represented NADCAs continued commitment to
being the HVAC cleaning industrys authoritative source for
information related to HVAC system cleaning and
restoration. ACR 2005 reflected a national and
international collaboration of indoor environmental
professionals, HVAC professionals, remediation, restoration
and cleaning organizations all working together to create a
document that was globally relevant in todays society.

After the HVAC system is installed and its operation begins,

the particulate accumulation process continues throughout
the life of the system. Poor design, installation and
maintenance practices, low-efficiency air filtration, air flow
bypass, inadequate or infrequent preventative maintenance
practices, humid conditions, and many other factors will
result in contaminated HVAC systems. HVAC systems may
also serve to transport and redistribute unwanted particles
from other sources in the building.

The fourth edition, ACR 2006, incorporates everything from

ACR 2005, and includes an extensive protocol for cleaning
coils. In addition, Standard 05, Requirements for the
Installation of Service Openings in HVAC Systems, has
been incorporated into ACR 2006. The result is a
comprehensive standard that goes beyond previous
editions to provide for superior HVAC system cleaning and
restoration.

HVAC cleaning services have been available since the

early 1900s. However, it was not until the 1970s that
growing public concern for better IAQ led to an
understanding of the importance of cleaning HVAC system
components. Public awareness has increased ever since.
Greater demand for HVAC cleaning resulted in dramatic
growth for the HVAC system cleaning industry both for firms
offering service, as well as those providing research and
knowledge of HVAC system cleaning and its impact on

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General

1.1

Scope

Access: The ability to gain entry to the interior of the air

duct or HVAC component.
Access Door: Fabricated metal barrier (hatch) by which
a service opening is accessed or closed.

This standard defines procedures for assessing the

cleanliness of HVAC systems and for determining when
cleaning is required.

Adhered Substance: A material, such as mastic, that is

not removable by direct contact vacuuming.

This standard sets acceptable criteria for the safe and

effective cleaning and restoration of HVAC systems and
components. It also defines environmental engineering
principles necessary to control the migration of HVAC
system particulate.

ACGIH: American Conference of Governmental

Industrial Hygienists.
Adhered Particulate: Any material not intended or
designed to be present in an HVAC system, and which
must be dislodged in order to be removed.

This standard provides test methods for verifying HVAC

component cleanliness upon the completion of a
cleaning project. This standard defines procedures
necessary to allow HVAC system cleaning work to be
performed in accordance with the requirements of IICRC
S520, Standard and Reference Guide for Professional
Mold Remediation.

Aerosols: Solid or liquid airborne particles.

AIHA: American Industrial Hygiene Association.
Air Duct: A passageway for distribution and extraction of
air, excluding plenums not installed in accordance with
SMACNA Standards (See ASHRAE Terminology of
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration,
1991).

The requirements set forth in this document address

cleaning, building use, contaminant type, worker and
occupant health and safety, and project monitoring.

Air Duct Covering: Materials such as insulation and

banding used to cover the external surface of a duct.

This standard identifies construction methods and

material performance criteria for the safe and effective
creation and installation of new service openings used to
facilitate the inspection and cleaning of HVAC systems.
1.2

Air Duct Lining: Generally refers to fiber glass or other

matting affixed to the interior surfaces of the air ducts for
thermal insulation and noise attenuation.

Purpose

Air Filtration Device (AFD): A portable or transportable,

self-contained blower assembly designed to move a
defined volume of air equipped with one or more stages
of particulate filtration. Depending on the mode of use,
an AFD that filters (usually HEPA) and re-circulates air is
referred to as an "air scrubber." One that filters air and
creates negative pressure is referred to as a "negative
air machine."

It is the intent of this document to provide consumers

and specifiers of HVAC system cleaning and restoration
services with information needed to help ensure that
cleaning is performed to acceptable standards and in
such a manner that the services contribute to improved
system cleanliness and/or system performance.
This standard also defines the requirements necessary
to construct and install service openings in HVAC
systems.
1.3

Air-handling Unit (AHU): A packaged assembly, usually

connected to ductwork, that moves air and may also
clean and condition the air.

Application

Central-station Air-handling Unit: factory-made,

encased assembly consisting of the fan or fans and
other necessary equipment, that perform one or
more of the functions of circulating, cleaning,
heating, cooling, humidifying, dehumidifying, and
mixing of air; does not include a heating or cooling
source.

ACR 2006 provides standards and guidance for industry

professionals, HVAC cleaning and restoration service
providers, building owners and others who manage
HVAC systems.
The requirements of this standard apply to all
classifications of buildings, except as otherwise specified
herein.
2

Cooling-heating Unit: unit that includes means for

cooling and heating, and which may also include
means for other air-handling unit functions.

Definitions

Abrasion: A surface loss of material due to friction.

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ASTM International: American Society for Testing and

Materials.

Cooling Unit: unit that includes means for cooling

and which may also include means for other airhandling unit functions.

Bioaerosols: Airborne particles of biological origin.

Heating unit: unit that includes means for heating,
and which may also include means for other airhandling unit functions.

Biological Contaminants: Bacteria, fungi (mold and

mildew), spores, viruses, animal dander, mites, insects,
pollen, and the by-products of these elements.

Make-up air unit: factory-assembled fan-heater or

cooling/dehumidifying unit that supplies tempered
fresh air to replace air that is exhausted. Centrifugal
or axial fans are used with direct gas-fired, electric,
or water heater sections.

Cleaning: The removal of visible particulate and

biologicals to a level defined within this document.
Closure: (1) An access door or panel installed on the air
duct or air-handling unit to create a permanent seal. (2)
Device or material used in closing a service opening.

Ventilating unit: unit with means to provide

ventilation, and which may also include means for
other air-handling unit functions (See ASHRAE
Terminology of Heating, Ventilating, Air
Conditioning, and Refrigeration, 1991).

Closure Panel: Sheet metal, or other appropriate

material used for permanently closing a service opening.
Coatings: See Surface Treatments.

Air Scrubber: An air filtration device (AFD) using HEPA

filtration configured to re-circulate air within a defined
space.

Coils: Devices inside an HVAC system that temper

and/or dehumidify the air handled by the HVAC system.
These include heat exchangers with or without extended
surfaces through which water, ethylene glycol solution,
brine, volatile refrigerant, or steam is circulated for the
purpose of total cooling (sensible cooling plus latent
cooling) or sensible heating of a forced-circulation air
stream (See ASHRAE 33-78 and ARI 410-91).

Air Sweeping: A process that uses a pressurized air

source combined with either handheld blowguns or a
hose with a remote nozzle attachment to move
particulate and debris within an HVAC system during
cleaning.

Collection Device: A HEPA-filtered machine designed

primarily to collect debris, filter particulate and discharge
air back to the indoor environment, or a fan driven nonHEPA-filtered machine that is designed to collect debris,
and then filter particulate while discharging the air
outside the building envelope.

ASCS: Air Systems Cleaning Specialist. The ASCS

designation is awarded by NADCA to industry
professionals who satisfactorily complete a written
certification examination testing knowledge of HVAC
systems, cleaning standards and best practices.
Ambient Air Cleaning: The process of removing
particulate from indoor air outside of the HVAC system.

Conditions: For the purpose of this standard, Conditions

1, 2, and 3 are defined for indoor environments relative
to mold. Definitions for each Condition are as follows:

Antimicrobial: Describes an agent that kills or inactivates

microorganisms or suppresses their growth (See ASTM
E35.15)

Condition 1 (normal ecology): An indoor

environment that may have settled spores, fungal
fragments or traces of actual growth whose identity,
location and quantity is reflective of a normal fungal
ecology for an indoor environment (See IICRC
S520).

Antimicrobial Surface Treatments: Chemical or physical

agent applied to, or incorporated into materials that
suppresses microbial growth.
Assessment: A comprehensive review and evaluation of
the HVAC system, or representative portions thereof, to
make a preliminary determination of which general forms
of contamination are present and to document the
overall system cleanliness level.

Condition 2 (settled spores and trace growth): An

indoor environment, which is primarily contaminated
with settled spores that were dispersed directly or
indirectly from a Condition 3 area, and which may
have traces of actual growth (See IICRC S520).

ASHRAE: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating,

and Air-Conditioning Engineers.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

Condition 3 (actual growth): An indoor environment

contaminated with the presence of actual mold
growth and associated spores. Actual growth
includes growth that is active or dormant, visible or
hidden (See IICRC S520).

Hinged - fabricated door and doorframe attached

together with a hinge.
Sandwich - two-part closure device in which the two
sides are mechanically fastened together on both
sides of the duct wall at the perimeter of the service
opening.

Constant Air Volume System: An air-handling system

involving a continuous level of airflow.

Spin Door - round access door and door frame

installed by spinning the door frame into a round
opening.

Contact Vacuum: A Collection Device, usually portable,

that uses a nylon brush nozzle attached to the end of its
inlet air hose. The brush head is applied directly to a
surface for cleaning.

Ductwork: A system of passageways for distribution and

extraction of air, excluding plenums not installed in
accordance with SMACNA Standards (See ASHRAE
Terminology of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning &
Refrigeration, 1991).

Containment Area: An engineered space within a work

area designed to control the migration of contaminants
to adjacent areas during assessment or cleaning
procedures.

EPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Contaminant: Any substance not intended to be present

that is located within the HVAC system.

Flame Spread Index: The Flame Spread Index refers to

the sustained combustion classification of a material as
listed in NFPA 255, Standard Method of Test of Surface
Burning Characteristics of Building Materials.

Converging 45 Degree Cut: Applies to the angle of the

cut when removing a section of ductboard to create an
opening. Provides for resealable fit when re-installing
the section for closure (sometimes referred to as a
pumpkin cut).

Flange: Outer rim of an access door frame provided to

attach the frame to the duct.

Crossbreak: Diagonal bends made in metal panels to

increase rigidity and decrease flexibility.

HEPA: High Efficiency Particulate Air. To be called a

true HEPA filter, or certified HEPA filter the filter must
have a documented filtration efficiency of 99.97% at 0.3
micron-sized particles.

Debris: Non-adhered substances not intended to be

present within the HVAC system.

Highly Recommended: When the term highly

recommended is used in this document, it means the
practice or procedure is a component of the accepted
standard of care to be followed, though not mandatory
by regulatory requirement.

DOP Testing: The percentage removal of 0.3 micrometer

particles of dioctylphthalate (DOP) or equivalent used to
rate high-efficiency air filters, those with efficiencies
above 98%.
Double Wall Duct: Sheet metal duct usually constructed
with an inner perforated liner sandwiching fibrous glass
insulation.

HVAC System: The heating, ventilation, and air

conditioning (HVAC) system includes any interior
surface of the facilitys air distribution system for
conditioned spaces and/or occupied zones. This
includes the entire heating, air-conditioning, and
ventilation system from the points where the air enters
the system to the points where the air is discharged from
the system. The return air grilles, return air ducts to the
air-handling unit (AHU), the interior surfaces of the AHU,
mixing box, coil compartment, condensate drain pans,
humidifiers and dehumidifiers, supply air ducts, fans, fan
housing, fan blades, air wash systems, spray
eliminators, turning vanes, filters, filter housings, reheat
coils, and supply diffusers are all considered part of the
HVAC system. The HVAC system may also include
other components such as dedicated exhaust and
ventilation components and make-up air systems.

Duct Access Door: Fabricated metal barrier (hatch) by

which a service opening is accessed or closed.
Designed for permanent installation. May be available
pre-fabricated in a variety of sizes and configurations.
Most utilize cam locks for securing the removable door
from the permanently installed doorframe. Types of
Duct Access Doors are listed below:
Flush Mount - fabricated door and door frame which
extends into the duct and is externally flush with the
outside duct wall.
Surface Mount - fabricated door and door frame
which extends out from the surface of the outside
duct wall.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

IAQA: Indoor Air Quality Association.

NFPA: National Fire Protection Association.

Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP): An individual

who is qualified by education, training and experience to
perform an assessment of the fungal ecology of
property, systems and contents at the job site, create a
sampling strategy, sample the indoor environment,
interpret laboratory data, determine Condition 1, 2 and 3
status for the purpose of establishing a scope of work
and verify the return of the fungal ecology to a Condition
1 status (See IICRC S520).

Negative Air Machine: A HEPA-filtered air filtration

device designed primarily for collecting particulate and
limiting particulate migration while controlling workspace
pressure differentials. These machines may or may not
be ducted outside the building envelope.

Inspection: A gathering of information for use in making

determinations and assessments.

Non-porous HVAC System Surface: Any surface of the

HVAC system in contact with the air stream that cannot
be penetrated by water or air, such as sheet metal,
aluminum foil, or polymetric film used to line flexible
duct.

Non-adhered Substance: Any material not intended or

designed to be present in an HVAC system, and which
can be removed by contact vacuuming.

IKECA: International Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning

Association.

NAIMA: North American Insulation Manufacturers

Association.

Laser Particle Counter: Sophisticated instruments for

measuring particle concentrations down to the submicron level.

OSHA: United States Occupational Safety and Health

Administration.

MERV: Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value.

Panel: (1) Fabricated section of metal making up the

structural shell of a piece of mechanical equipment. (2)
Patch of sheet metal used for closing a service opening.

Mastic: Material used to caulk, seal, or cement gaps and

cracks in air duct connections and joints.
Mechanical Agitation Device: A tool used to dislodge or
move contaminants and debris within the HVAC system.

Particulate: Any non-adhered substance present in the

HVAC system that can be removed by contact
vacuuming.

Mechanical Cleaning: Physical removal of contaminants

and debris not intended to be present from internal
HVAC system surfaces.

Permanent: The life of the system.

Plastic Plug: Round polyethylene cap used to close 1"-3"
openings in sheet metal duct. (Note: the materials used
in the manufacture of these devices often exceed the
indices for flame spread and smoke spread as set forth
in NFPA 90A & 90B).

Mechanically Fasten: To affix two or more objects

together through the use of screws, clamps, locks, or
straps. (Contrast with mastic or tape.)
Microbiocide: Chemical or physical agent that kills
microorganisms (ASTM E35.15)

Porous HVAC System Surface: Any surface of the

HVAC system in contact with the air stream that is
capable of penetration by either water or air. Examples
include fiber glass duct liner, fiber glass duct board,
wood, and concrete.

Mold Contaminated: The presence of indoor mold

growth and/or mold spores, whose identity, location and
amplification are not reflective of a normal fungal
ecology for an indoor environment, and which may
produce adverse health effects and cause damage to
materials, and adversely affect the operation or function
of building systems.

Preliminary Determination: A conclusion drawn from the

collection, analysis and summary of information obtained
during an initial inspection and evaluation to identify
areas of moisture intrusion and actual or potential mold
growth (IICRC S520).

MSDS: Material Safety Data Sheet.

Must: When the term must is used in this document, it
means that the practice or procedure is mandatory due
to natural law or regulatory requirements, including
occupational, public health and other relevant
regulations, and is therefore a component of the
accepted standard of care to be followed.

Pressure Drop: (1) Loss in pressure, as from one end of

a refrigerant line to the other, from friction, static, heat,
etc.; (2) Difference in pressure between two points in a
flow system, usually caused by frictional resistance to
fluid flow in a conduit, filter or other flow system (See

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

Surface Treatment (non-antimicrobial): Coating or

treatment designed to repair surface defects or modify
surface characteristics

ASHRAE Terminology of Heating, Ventilation, Air

Conditioning, & Refrigeration, 1991).
Recommended: When the term recommended is used in
this document, it means the practice or procedure is
advised or suggested.

TVOC: Total volatile organic compounds.

Thermal Acoustic Materials: HVAC insulation materials
designed for sound and temperature control.

Regulated Hazardous Materials: This includes any

substances such as asbestos or lead that are regulated
under applicable national, state and local regulations.

UL: Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.

Requirement: Mandatory practice for compliance with

this standard.

Vacuum Collection Equipment: See Collection Device.

Restoration: To bring back to, or put back into, a former

or original state.

Visibly Clean: A condition in which the interior surfaces

of the HVAC system are free of non-adhered substances
and debris.

Seal: To make secure against leakage by a fastener,

coating, or filler.

Visual Inspection: Visual examination with the naked eye

of the cleanliness of the HVAC system.

Sealant: A fastener, coating, or filler used to seal against

air leakage.

Wet Process Cleaning: Any method of mechanical

cleaning of HVAC components that utilizes water and/or
liquid chemicals as part of the process (i.e. power
washing, steam cleaning, hand washing).

Service Panel: Fabricated piece of metal making up a

part of the structural shell of a piece of mechanical
equipment. Often allows for entry to service equipment.
Shall: (See Must)
Shiplap Tool: Specialized cutting tool for fabricating
fibrous glass board.
Should: Indicates a recommendation, or that which is
advised by this standard, but is not mandatory (See
Highly Recommended).
Sleeve Collar: Fabricated door frame extension used to
install typical surface-mount access doors in fibrous
glass ductboard.
SMACNA: Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors
National Association.
Source Removal: See Mechanical Cleaning.
Stain: A remaining discoloration on the HVAC system
surface after contact vacuuming, which cannot be
removed.
Standard of Care: Practices common to reasonably
prudent members of the trade who are recognized in the
industry as qualified and competent.
Surface Comparison Testing: A test used to determine
the cleanliness of both non-porous (metal) and porous
(fiber glass) HVAC component surfaces (See Section
13.2 of this standard).

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

Table 1
HVAC Cleanliness Inspection Schedule
(Recommended Intervals)

Determining the Need for HVAC System Cleaning

and Restoration

It is highly recommended that HVAC systems be

cleaned when an HVAC cleanliness inspection indicates
that the system is contaminated with a significant
accumulation of particulate or if microbial contamination
conditions have reached either Condition 2 or Condition
3. If the preliminary inspection shows that HVAC system
performance is compromised due to contamination buildup, cleaning is highly recommended.
Often HVAC system components collect significant
amounts of debris and particulate during construction
activities within a building. It is highly recommended that
newly installed HVAC systems or HVAC systems
undergoing renovation be verified clean, and protected
before the system is permitted to operate. It is highly
recommended that consistent HVAC system inspections
be part of a buildings overall indoor air quality
management program.

Building Use
Classification
(See Section 4.1)

Airhandling
Unit

Supply
ductwork

Return
ductwork
/ Exhaust

Industrial

1 year

1 year

1 year

Residential

1 year

2 years

2 years

Light Commercial

1 year

2 years

2 years

Commercial

1 year

2 years

2 years

Healthcare

1 year

1 year

1 year

Marine

1 year

2 years

2 years

3.2

HVAC System Component Inspections

The cleanliness inspection should include air-handling

units and representative areas of the HVAC system
components and ductwork. In HVAC systems that
include multiple air-handling units, a representative
sample of the units should be inspected. If the
inspection is being conducted as part of a mold
remediation project in accordance with IICRC Standard
S520, then all components of the HVAC system must be
inspected.

3.1 HVAC Cleanliness Inspection Schedule

HVAC systems should be routinely inspected for
cleanliness by visual means. Table 1 provides a
recommended inspection schedule for major HVAC
components within different building use classifications.
The inspection intervals specified in Table 1 are
minimum recommendations. The need for more frequent
cleanliness inspections is subject to numerous
environmental, mechanical and human factors.
Geographic regions with climates having higher
humidity, for example, will warrant HVAC system
inspections on a more frequent basis, due to the
increased potential for microbial amplification.

The cleanliness inspection must be conducted without

negatively impacting the indoor environment through
excessive disruption of settled dust, microbial
amplification or other debris. In cases where mold
contamination is suspected, and/or in sensitive
environments where even small amounts of contaminant
may be of concern, environmental engineering control
measures must be implemented and the services of an
Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) are highly
recommended to determine the overall impact on the
indoor environment.

If the inspection of an HVAC units air-handling

components reveals contamination, then supply and
return ductwork must be inspected during that same
inspection time rather than in accordance with the
intervals specified in Table 1.

3.2.1

AHU Inspections

The air-handling unit (AHU) cleanliness inspection

should consider all components within the unit, including
filters and air bypass, heating and cooling coils,
condensate pans, condensate drain lines, humidification
systems, acoustic insulation, fans and fan
compartments, dampers, door gaskets and general unit
integrity.

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3.2.2

in making appropriate recommendations (See IICRC

S520).

Supply Duct Inspections

The supply duct cleanliness inspection should consider a

representative portion of supply system components
including, but not limited to, supply ducts, controls,
mixing/ control boxes, reheat coils and other internal
components.
3.2.3

3.3.4

If the preliminary determination indicates extensive mold

growth that is visible, hidden or suspected as a result of
a chronic or lingering moisture problem, it is highly
recommended that the extent of microbial growth or
Condition (1-3) to which areas of the HVAC system are
mold-contaminated be determined. It is highly
recommended that this determination be made by a
thorough assessment performed by an IEP before
starting remediation. However, in some circumstances
where Condition 3 contamination has been determined
and the entire HVAC system is located within the
contaminated area, or when the scope of work can be
determined without sampling, testing or independent IEP
inspection, then engagement of an IEP during the
preliminary determination process may not be
necessary. Further, some loss mitigation services (e.g.,
water damage restoration) may be initiated before or
while assessing conditions and/or remediation
processes (See IICRC S520).

Return Duct Inspections

The return duct cleanliness inspection should consider a

representative portion of return system components
including, but not limited to, return ducts, dampers,
return plenums, make-up air plenums and grilles.
3.3

Inspecting for Mold Contamination

It is highly recommended the HVAC system cleanliness

inspection include a preliminary determination of the
level of mold contamination (Condition 1, 2 or 3) and
other biological activity. The inspection should evaluate
the air-handling unit, humidifier and other representative
system components.
HVAC systems should be inspected at least twice
annually when they include supplemental humidification
or when they are located within a hot and humid climate.
3.3.1

If mold or biological sampling is performed, it must be in

accordance with established industry standards and
guidelines.

Preliminary Determination for Mold

After the initial HVAC system component inspection, a

preliminary determination must be made by the person
performing the inspection regarding potential mold
contamination. Making a determination involves the
collection, analysis and summary of information to
identify areas of moisture accumulation and potential
mold growth. A preliminary determination may indicate
the need for further assessment by an IEP and/or other
appropriate professionals (See IICRC S520).
3.3.2

3.4

HVAC Inspector Qualifications

It is highly recommended that a qualified HVAC

inspector be used to determine the preliminary state of
HVAC system cleanliness. At minimum, such personnel
should have a verifiable working knowledge of basic
HVAC system design, fundamental HVAC engineering
practices, current industry HVAC cleaning and
restoration techniques, and applicable industry
standards. Individuals who are inspecting for microbial
contamination should be qualified to determine
Conditions 1, 2 and 3.

Surface Mold Growth

If the preliminary determination indicates a small,

isolated area of mold growth on a surface layer of
condensation on painted walls or non-porous surfaces,
and mold growth has not occurred in concealed areas,
the use of an IEP generally is not necessary and the
mold usually can be removed as part of a regular HVAC
maintenance program (See IICRC S520).
3.3.3

Extensive Mold Growth

3.5

Conditions Requiring Cleaning

It is highly recommended HVAC system cleaning be

performed when any of the following conditions are
found during the HVAC Cleanliness Inspection.
3.5.1

Limited Mold Growth

HVAC System Contamination

If significant accumulations of contaminants or debris are

visually observed within the HVAC system, then cleaning
is necessary. Likewise, if evidence of active fungal
colonization is visually observed or confirmed by
analytical methods, then cleaning is required. If the
system has been confirmed by an IEP to be at Condition

If the preliminary determination indicates a limited

amount of visible mold confined to a specific area, (e.g.
a small area of a mechanical system that is not in the
path of the major air circulation system of the structure),
the use of an IEP may or may not be necessary and the
restorer or remediators professional judgment is needed

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

2 or Condition 3 status then the system must be

cleaned.

design inadequate for the current needs of the

building and its occupants;

If the HVAC system discharges visible particulate into

the occupied space, or a contribution of airborne
particles from the HVAC system into the indoor ambient
air is confirmed, then cleaning is highly recommended.
See the guideline to this standard for discussion of the
Particle Profiling (PP) procedure, which may be used to
confirm if non-visible contaminants are being introduced
into the indoor environment via the HVAC system.
3.5.2

Compromised Performance

Mechanical deterioration and/or physical damage to

system components may have degraded their
performance to the point where they cannot provide
the necessary level of air flow or capacity.

Project Evaluation and Recommendation

When contamination is identified or other criteria

triggering cleaning in Section 3 are met, it is highly
recommended a project evaluation take place prior to
initiating cleaning work. The project evaluation includes
three steps: 1) determining the building usage by
classification; 2) identifying the type of contamination
present in the HVAC system; and 3) conducting an
indoor environmental impact survey.

Indoor Air Quality Management

Indoor air quality management plans that include

periodic cleaning and maintenance are highly
recommended to minimize recurring contamination
within HVAC systems. It is highly recommended that
special consideration be given to buildings or residences
with sensitive populations such as individuals with
compromised immune systems, and specialized
environments or buildings with sensitive building
contents or critical processes.
3.6

The system may not have been installed as

designed, or commissioned so as to assure that its
operation met the design objectives; and

The description of what constitutes an adequate

engineering evaluation of HVAC system condition and
capacity is beyond the scope of this standard. It is
recommended that qualified engineering professionals or
HVAC contractors be consulted for such an evaluation.

Cleaning is highly recommended for heat exchange

coils, cooling coils, air flow control devices, filtration
devices, and air-handling equipment determined to have
restrictions, blockages, or contamination deposits that
may cause system performance inefficiencies, air flow
degradation, or that may significantly affect the design
intent of the HVAC system.
3.5.3

The HVAC contamination type and the environmental

impact survey must include a visual evaluation of
representative sections of the HVAC components and
the occupied spaces served by the HVAC system. This
evaluation serves to visually inspect conditions within the
HVAC system and verify the overall physical integrity of
system components and surfaces.

HVAC System Engineering Assessment

Information collected from the project evaluation should
be used to define the scope of the cleaning and
restoration project, cleaning techniques to be employed,
the environmental engineering controls required for the
workspace, and any unique project requirements.

It is highly recommended that in addition to an HVAC

cleanliness inspection, a complete engineering
assessment of the design and condition of the entire
HVAC system be considered depending on the
conditions that exist in the project. This is especially
important if temperature and/or relative humidity
conditions cannot be maintained within the spaces in
compliance with the requirements of ASHRAE
Standards 62.1 or 62.2; if temperatures, relative humidity
or airflow varies between different areas of the building;
or, if the mechanical components are not in good
condition and/or repair. There are four primary reasons
this HVAC System Engineering Assessment is important
to the success of a remediation project:

The original system design may not have been

adequate to maintain optimal indoor environmental
(or psychrometric) conditions in the building;

Expansions, renovations or changes of use of the

original space may have rendered the HVAC system

4.1

Building Use Classification

Classifying the type of building and its uses is an

important part of project evaluation. Cleaning methods,
project specifications, environmental engineering
controls, and cleanliness verification methods may vary
among different buildings. Building classifications are
listed in Sections 4.1.1 to 4.1.8 of this standard. If the
HVAC system restoration project is being conducted as
part of a larger mold remediation project, it is
recommended the buildings usage classification be
determined by an IEP to assess the overall impact of the
contamination present and the corrective cleaning
actions specified to remediate the contamination.

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4.1.1

4.1.8

Industrial

In some cases, multiple building use classification types

may exist within a single facility. For example, an
industrial facility may have general office space, a clean
room, and a manufacturing area. Projects within multiuse buildings must use appropriate environmental
engineering controls as specified within this standard for
each building classification type.

Buildings classified as industrial use include any facility

housing the manufacture, fabrication, processing,
handling, and storage of materials or products.
4.1.2

Residential

Buildings classified as residential use include standalone homes, apartment buildings, and condominiums
where people reside.
4.1.3

In the event two or more building classifications are

encountered on one project, then the more stringent of
the applicable environmental engineering controls must
apply when isolation cannot be maintained between
areas with different building use classifications.

Light Commercial

Buildings classified as light commercial use include

space with a constant volume HVAC system up to, and
including, 10 tons cooling or equivalent heating capacity,
or 4000 CFM nominal air flow, whichever is greater.
4.1.4

4.2

4.1.4.1 Restaurants

The HVAC systems, including air-handling units and

representative areas of the HVAC system components
and ductwork, must be evaluated for contamination type
and levels.

The patron seating areas and employee workspaces

within restaurants are classified as commercial use.
Kitchen exhaust systems designed to remove greaseladen vapor rising from cooking appliances are not
covered by this standard and should be cleaned in
accordance with NFPA Standard 96 and IKECA
Guidelines and Best Practices.

An HVAC system component is considered

contaminated when evidence of significant particulate
debris and/or visual microbial growth exists. A system is
considered to have microbial contamination when the
HVAC cleanliness evaluation identifies microbial growth
through visual inspection and/or analytical verification.

Healthcare

An HVAC system that is part of a building that has been

classified as having Condition 3 mold contamination
does not require further evaluation of the contaminants
by an IEP for restoration to commence.

Buildings classified as healthcare use include any facility

that either serves as a hospital, out-patient care, doctors
office, nursing home, extended care, or any other facility
with a population of individuals with compromised
immune systems.
4.1.6

It is highly recommended that any individual taking and

interpreting samples from the interior of HVAC systems
be an IEP with specific training in taking samples from
within such systems.

Marine

The marine use classification includes ships or floating

vessels with passenger or crew cabins, manufacturing,
processing, material handling, and storage.
4.1.7

HVAC Contamination Type

Cleaning methods, project specifications, environmental

engineering controls, and cleanliness verification
methods may vary depending on the type of
contaminants found within a building and its HVAC
system. Recognizing the type of contaminants present
and the type of HVAC system(s) within the building are
important parts of the overall project evaluation.

Commercial

Buildings classified as commercial use include space

with an HVAC system of greater than 10 tons, or
equivalent heating capacity, or 4000 CFM nominal air
flow, whichever is greater.

4.1.5

Multi-use Buildings

4.2.1

Air-handling Units

The air-handling unit contamination evaluation should

consider representative sections of components within
the unit, including but not limited to filters and air bypass,
heat and cooling coils, condensate pans, condensate
drain lines, humidification systems, acoustic insulation,
fans and fan compartments, door gaskets, and general
unit integrity.

Special Use Areas

Special use areas include facilities with clean rooms,

laboratories, or other areas with specific requirements
for environmental control.

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4.2.2

measuring devices. Monitoring is highly recommended

in buildings containing sensitive environments or
contents, when occupants have special health
considerations, or when biological contaminants are
being disturbed within a mechanical system.

Supply and Return Ductwork

The supply duct contamination evaluation should

consider a representative portion of supply system
components including, but not limited to, supply ducts,
mixing/control boxes, flexible type ductwork, thermalacoustical lining condition, reheat coils and other duct
components.

5.1

HVAC ducts must be kept at an appropriate pressure

differential relative to surrounding indoor occupant
spaces during all cleaning procedures and as may be
required during assessment activities. It is highly
recommended pressure differential be achieved through
the use of a negative air machine or HEPA filtered
vacuum collection equipment. Pressurization differential
requirements apply to projects taking place within all
building use classifications. It must be possible to
demonstrate and document pressurization differential
procedures.

The return duct contamination evaluation should

consider a representative portion of all return system
components including, but not limited to, return ducts,
dampers, return plenums, thermal-acoustic lining
condition, make-up air plenums and grilles.
4.3

Indoor Environmental Impact Survey

The activities associated with HVAC system inspection,

system cleaning, and potential restoration of HVAC
components, have the ability to adversely influence a
buildings indoor environment. Of primary concern is the
disturbance of settled particulate and the potential for
disturbed particles to be released into occupied areas.

Should field conditions allow for possible cross

contamination via make-up air to a negatively pressured
interior HVAC zone or duct, suitable provisions must be
utilized to prevent such cross contamination.

It is highly recommended that engineering controls be

used to manage the general workspace environment
during cleaning and restoration work. Such controls will
serve specifically to keep HVAC contaminants from
entering indoor spaces. An indoor environmental impact
survey is highly recommended to help determine
appropriate environmental engineering controls for a
project.
5

HVAC Duct Pressurization

5.1.1

Vacuum Collection Equipment and Negative Air

Machines

Vacuum collection equipment and/or a negative air

machine must be used to establish pressure differentials
in the portion of the HVAC system being serviced
relative to the surrounding area. It is highly
recommended the device be operated in close proximity
to the connection point of the HVAC component being
serviced. HVAC openings must be temporarily sealed
and opened as required to maintain an appropriate
pressure differential throughout the mechanical system.
Installation of subsequent service openings in the portion
of the HVAC system being cleaned must be performed
while the system is under the appropriate pressure
differential.

Environmental Engineering Controls

To the extent feasible, engineering controls must be

used to assure worker safety and health, and to prevent
cross-contamination. These engineering controls may
include, but are not limited to source control, isolation
barriers, pressure differentials, dust suppression
methods, HEPA vacuuming and filtration, detailed
cleaning, temperature and humidity control, and a
sanitary approach.

Negative air machines must not be used to collect large

quantities of debris unless designed for that purpose.

During HVAC system cleaning procedures, appropriate

environmental engineering controls must be established
to control contaminants associated with the project from
migrating to other spaces in the building. When
disrupting biological contaminants within a mechanical
system, the use of an IEP may be necessary to design
the appropriate engineering and environmental controls
to protect the indoor environment.

5.1.2

Pressure Differential Requirements

A continuous pressure differential must be maintained

between the portion of the HVAC ductwork system being
cleaned and surrounding indoor occupant spaces. The
pressure differential in those portions of the HVAC
system undergoing cleaning should be verified at
representative locations during the cleaning process.

The effectiveness of environmental engineering controls

may be demonstrated through the use of monitoring
devices such as laser particle counters, digital pressure
differential manometers, and other analytical or

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5.2

5.3.1

Work Site Containment

Physical activities within an indoor environment are likely

to cause a temporary rise in airborne particles. Work
site containment must be used to create a barrier
between the work site and the rest of the building,
reducing the opportunity for particles to cross
contaminate other areas. In some cases the mechanical
system will be completely isolated from the work site
before work begins. The necessity for mechanical
system isolation will be identified during the
environmental engineering controls inspection. When
mechanical systems are isolated from the rest of the
environment it is highly recommended that the need for
supplemental heating or cooling be evaluated for the
project.

In cases of severe microbial growth (Condition 3), or

where hazardous substances are known to be present
within the HVAC system, or on projects taking place
within healthcare facilities, there must be an on-site
hygiene/integrity inspection of vacuum collection
equipment prior to commencement of work. The building
owner or his representative should conduct the
inspection.
5.3.2

Operational Condition

All equipment must be maintained in good working

order, consistent with applicable OSHA requirements,
including, but not limited to vacuum collection
equipment, power tools, pressurized air sources,
electrical power cords and plugs, ground fault protection
devices, vacuum collection hoses, fluid and pneumatic
lines, manual and mechanical rotary brush systems,
pneumatic cleaning systems, ductwork zoning devices,
ladders, staging equipment, and hand tools.

The extent of work site containment controls employed

on a particular cleaning project is dependent upon the
building use classification, HVAC system contamination
evaluation, and indoor environmental impact survey.
The guideline section of this standard describes several
different types of containment systems and the
conditions under which they may be applicable. It is
highly recommended that work site containment controls
be determined in cooperation with an IEP when
Condition 2 or 3 mold remediation is taking place within
other areas of the building.
5.3

Equipment Hygiene Inspection

5.3.3

Vacuum Equipment Filtration

When using vacuum collection equipment exhausting

within the building envelope, it is required the equipment
utilize HEPA filtration with 99.97% collection efficiency at
0.3 micron particle size. This requirement applies to all
cleaning projects.

Decontaminating Remediation Equipment

Tools, equipment, and instrumentation brought onto the

work site must be clean and must not introduce
contaminants into the indoor environment or HVAC
system. All equipment must be in safe working order
upon arrival at a job site. All equipment must be serviced
as needed throughout a project to limit possible cross
contamination from poor hygiene, and/or unsafe
operating conditions for service personnel and building
occupants. These requirements apply to all cleaning
projects.

5.3.3.1 Work Site Filtration Efficiency Certification

Tools and equipment must be cleaned and

decontaminated before being transported into an
uncontaminated area.

Cleaning activities must not impair, alter or damage any

smoke and fire detection equipment located within the
facility, or attached to and serving the HVAC system.
When required, temporary modifications, alterations,
deactivation and reactivation of smoke and fire detection
equipment, special permits, code-required notification, or
other communications are the responsibility of the facility
owner or the owners designated representative.

In cases of severe microbial growth (Condition 3), or

where hazardous substances are known to be present
within the HVAC system, or on projects taking place
within healthcare facilities, filter certification by DOP
testing of HEPA-filtered collection equipment at the work
site is highly recommended prior to commencement of
work.
5.4

At the end of a project, tools and equipment must be

cleaned and decontaminated before being removed to
another area.
Tools and equipment must be cleaned and dried
carefully before being returned to storage.

5.4.1

Smoke and/or Fire Detection Equipment

Temporary Controls

Conditions may require temporarily disabling detection

equipment to avoid damage and/or false alarms. When
temporary controls are used, confirmation that all such

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

devices were properly functioning must be documented,

and if needed, confirmed through testing.
5.4.1.1 Authority Notification

disposal. Antimicrobials must be properly registered for

use in HVAC systems by the EPA, or the applicable
governing agencies and used in accordance with their
registration listing specifically for HVAC applications.

When detection equipment is deactivated, disabled or

reactivated, it is the responsibility of the facility owner or
his representative to inform the authority having
jurisdiction about detection equipment status.

Any application of cleaning agents, antimicrobials, or

other chemical agents must be performed in such a
manner as to prevent employee and occupant exposure
and cross-contamination.

5.4.1.2 Safety Plan

5.7

When detection equipment is off-line, disabled, and

subsequently reactivated, it is the responsibility of the
facility owner or his representative to develop a plan for
assuring safe operation of the building during such
periods. The safety plan must conform to life safety
regulations. The plan must define the responsibilities of
each organizations designated representative involved
with executing the plan for the duration of the HVAC
system cleaning project.

All contaminated materials removed from the HVAC

system must be properly contained to prevent crosscontamination. Removed debris should be doublebagged and sealed in 6-mil polyethylene bags. Materials
deemed to be hazardous by governmental agencies
must be handled in strict accordance with any applicable
local, regional, or national codes.

5.5

All vacuum collection devices used in the contaminant

removal process must be sealed prior to relocation or
removal from the building. Any activity requiring the
opening of contaminated vacuum collection equipment
on site, such as servicing or filter maintenance, must be
performed in a negatively pressurized containment area
or outside the building.

Pressure Differentials

Pressure differentials are used to manage airflow. The

use of pressure differentials is a matter of professional
judgment. If pressure differentials are used, it is highly
recommended contaminated areas be negatively
pressurized relative to unaffected or clean areas of the
building to prevent cross contamination.

It is recommended that bagged materials be placed

inside a secure dumpster or transport vehicle
immediately after removing them from the building.
They must be handled carefully while moving them to
the disposal container or site. Respirators are not
required outside while transporting double-bagged
materials. It is highly recommended that bags not be
dropped, thrown or handled roughly. If wrapped
disposal materials rupture outside the containment,
transporting workers must don appropriate PPE
immediately, secure the area from public access, initiate
clean up (HEPA vacuuming), and contain the debris. It
is recommended that dumpsters with debris be protected
from scavengers and kept secured.

The impact of HVAC cleaning activities on building

pressurization and depressurization must be considered
for all buildings. Potential hazards and adverse
conditions resulting from dynamic building pressurization
or depressurization might include back-drafting,
extinguishing and/or flame roll-out of combustion
appliances, altered fume-hood exhausts, adjacent
thermal and relative humidity conditions, introduction of
outdoor pollutants, and other problems.
Appropriate environmental engineering controls must be
employed to safeguard the building environment and to
control equipment that could be adversely affected by
dynamic building pressurization or depressurization
during HVAC system cleaning processes.
5.6

Removal and Disposal of Contaminated

Materials

Non-regulated mold-contaminated ductwork components

and other materials (i.e., those that do not contain
asbestos, lead or other restricted waste) usually can be
disposed in normal landfills as compost or construction
waste. Generally, no special disposal provisions are
recommended for mold-contaminated materials;
however, local disposal ordinances may apply. Placing
mold labels on bags and wrapped materials is
recommended to discourage individuals from opening or
removing them from the disposal site. It is
recommended that label language be factual, not
reactionary (See IICRC S520).

Control of Product Emission

Products used in HVAC cleaning and restoration

projects may lead to the offgassing of objectionable
emissions even when properly used. All products used
must comply with any local, regional, or national
standards and/or laws regulating the use of such agents.
Cleaning agents, antimicrobials, or other chemicals must
be applied in accordance with the manufacturers written
recommendations for proper handling, usage, and

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5.8

recommended for all commercial, healthcare and special

use buildings.

Project Planning

Project planning is required for all HVAC system

cleaning projects. The project plan must address the
following areas:

5.9.1

Air cleaning should provide a minimum of four (4) air

changes per hour in the work area or must lower indoor
particle level in the work area to the documented
background level.

Negative air machines or ambient air cleaners used for

indoor airborne particle reduction must utilize HEPA
filtration with 99.97% collection efficiency at 0.3
micrometers or greater.

Strategic monitoring plan

Scope of work
Trades involved and their work tasks
Acceptable work hours
Number of individuals to be working on the project
Project schedule
Certifications for equipment
Methods to be used for the project
Cleaning and other chemicals to be used
Safety plans
MSDS documents
Materials and other documentation needed to allow
for the monitoring firm or individual to complete their
task.

5.8.1

5.10

Controlling Vapors or Emissions from Cleaning

and Coating

A review of the types of chemicals to be used and the

vapors they emit must be made before the project starts.
Adequate provisions must be made to control occupant
and worker exposure. Controls to exhaust chemical
emissions from cleaning activities should be analyzed for
their impact on building pressurization (See Section 5.5).

Sequence of HVAC System Cleaning in

Condition 2 and Condition 3 Environments

In buildings or areas of a structure determined to have

Condition 2 or 3 microbial contamination, it is
recommended to delay remediation of the HVAC system
until other building mold remediation is complete, in
order to avoid recontamination of the system. If this is
not possible, then it is highly recommended that portions
of the system exposed to or impacted by general
remediation activities either be blocked off or isolated as
soon as they are cleaned, re-inspected and then cleaned
again if needed after demolition and reconstruction
activities are complete. It may be necessary to provide
for temporary heating, cooling and other environmental
control for areas that are undergoing remediation if they
are isolated from the building HVAC system. Often, the
quality of make-up air drawn through the containment
will provide satisfactory conditions. In other cases,
supplemental heating, cooling or dehumidification
systems can be used to provide environmental control in
the spaces undergoing remediation. It is highly
recommended that where supplemental systems are
used inside of critical containments, they be
decontaminated, bagged or wrapped prior to being
removed from the workspace.
5.9

Filtration Efficiency and Air Exchanges

5.11

Notification and Documentation

It is highly recommended the building owner or owners

authorized representative be notified prior to the
contractor bringing new products or materials into the
building. These products include but are not limited to:
antimicrobials, cleaning agents, coil cleaning chemicals,
mastics, spray glue, coatings, sealants, and any new
HVAC system components. The contractor must have
applicable MSDS readily available for all chemicals that
will be used during the course of the project.
6

HVAC System Cleaning

This section defines the minimum requirements

necessary to render the HVAC system and its
components clean through the removal of surface
contaminants and deposits.
The HVAC system includes all interior surfaces of the
facilitys air distribution system that service conditioned
spaces and/or occupied zones. This includes the entire
heating, air-conditioning and ventilation system from the
points where air enters the system, to the final point of
discharge prior to entering the conditioned environment.
The return air grilles, return air ducts to the AHU, the
interior surfaces of the AHU, mixing boxes, coil
compartment, condensate drain pans, humidifiers and
dehumidifiers, supply air ducts, fans, fan housings, fan
blades, air wash systems, spray eliminators, turning
vanes, filters, filter housings, reheat coils, flexible
ductwork and supply diffusers are all considered part of

Ambient Air Cleaning

Ambient air cleaning is a supplemental engineering

control to provide ambient airborne particle reduction
during and immediately after HVAC cleaning work.
Ambient air cleaning is recommended for projects taking
place within residential, light commercial, industrial and
marine buildings. Ambient air cleaning is highly

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

the HVAC system. The HVAC system may also include

other components such as dedicated exhaust and
ventilation components and make-up air systems.
6.1

Table 2
Velocity Requirements for Contaminant Removal

Mechanical Cleaning Methodology

The HVAC system must be cleaned using mechanical

cleaning methods designed to dislodge and extract
contaminants from within the HVAC system
components. Mechanical cleaning techniques employ
sizeable vacuum collection units, portable vacuum
collection units, mechanical agitation systems, hand
brushing tools, pressurized air sources, pressurized
water sources, plus other tools and equipment to
dislodge attached particulate and debris and convey it to
a collection device in a safe and controlled manner.
6.1.1

Nature of
Contaminant

Examples

Design
Velocity
in fpm

Very fine light

dust

Cotton lint, wood flour, litho

powder

25003000

Dry dusts &

powders

Fine rubber dust, Bakelite

molding powder dust, jute lint,
cotton dust, shavings (light),
soap dust, leather shavings

30004000

Average
industrial dust

Grinding dust, buffing lint (dry),

wool jute dust, shoe dust,
granite dust, silica flour, general
material handling, brick cutting,
clay dust, foundry (general),
limestone dust, packaging and
weighing asbestos dust in
textile industries

35004000

Heavy dusts

Sawdust (heavy & wet), metal

turnings, foundry tumbling
barrels and shake out, sand
blast dust, wood blocks, hog
waste, brass turnings, cast iron
boring dust, lead dust

40004500

Collection Devices

It is highly recommended that mechanical cleaning

techniques of duct systems incorporate the use of
collection devices of sufficient capacity to create a
consistent pressure differential between the ductwork
being cleaned and the surrounding area. These
machines must be operated continuously during
cleaning. Collection devices must be used to convey
and collect debris and prevent cross migration of
dislodged particulate during the mechanical cleaning
process.

Reprinted from ACGIHs Industrial Ventilation: A Manual of

Recommended Practice, 23rd Ed.

A vacuum collection device must be connected to the

HVAC component being cleaned through preengineered openings. The vacuum collection device
must be of sufficient capacity that containment of debris
and the protection of the indoor environment are
maintained.

6.1.2

Mechanical Agitation

Dislodging contaminants from duct system components

must be accomplished through mechanical agitation
techniques. Mechanical agitation techniques requires
the use of mechanical agitation devices to dislodge
debris adhered to interior HVAC system surfaces, such
that debris may be safely conveyed to vacuum collection
devices. Agitation devices may include cable driven
brush systems, compressed air systems, power water
wash systems, pneumatic and electric driven brushes,
and hand tools such as contact vacuum brushes.

6.1.1.1 Capture Velocity

When the collection device is used to convey and
capture contaminants, it must maintain a sufficient
velocity and pressure differential in the portion of the
mechanical system being cleaned, as defined in ACGIH
Industrial Ventilation: A Manual of Recommended
Practice, to keep loosened particulate entrained and
prevent settling while it is conveyed to the vacuum
collection device. Table 2 defines velocities necessary
for various types of materials.

6.1.3

Contact Vacuuming

Contact vacuuming utilizing HEPA-filtered equipment

must be performed in designated areas of the HVAC
system. Cleaning must be performed by the application
of the vacuum in combination with a brush attachment
directly to the contaminated surface.
It is highly recommended the HVAC component being
remediated using HEPA contact vacuuming also be
negatively pressurized using a vacuum collection device.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

6.1.4

Power Washing, Steam Cleaning and Wet

Cleaning

recommended all visible surface contamination deposits

be removed in accordance with this standard.

Power washing, steam cleaning, or any other form of wet

process cleaning of HVAC system components must not
damage the components. It is highly recommended that
cleaning agents or water not be applied to porous HVAC
system components.

6.2.2

Duct systems must be cleaned to remove all visible

contaminants and be capable of passing cleanliness
verification tests (See section 13). Inaccessible areas
must be accessed by service openings constructed in
the system that are large enough to accommodate
mechanical cleaning procedures (See Section 6.4).

All HVAC components requiring wet process cleaning

must be cleaned in accordance with the chemical
manufacturers written instructions and applicable
federal, state, and local regulations. On occasion,
treatments designed to inhibit growth or re-soiling may
be applied following cleaning. These should be applied
according to manufacturers directions. Normally, these
will not be rinsed off following application.
6.2

6.3

Service Openings

Service openings must be made as required to

satisfactorily perform assessment, cleaning and
restoration procedures.
All service openings must comply with ACR 2006
Section 14, Requirements for the Installation of Service
Openings in HVAC Systems, applicable UL and NFPA
standards, as well as national, state, and local
requirements.

Component Cleaning

Cleaning methods must be employed such that all HVAC

system components must be visibly clean and capable
of passing cleanliness verification tests (See Section
13).

Dampers and any air-directional mechanical devices

inside the HVAC system must have their position
marked prior to cleaning and, upon completion, must be
restored to their marked position.

Coil Surface Cleaning

It is Highly Recommended that all portions of each coil

assembly be cleaned. Both upstream and downstream
sides of each coil section must be accessed for cleaning.
Where limited access is provided between close
proximity or zero-tolerance heating coils in an AHU,
cleaning may require removal and/or replacement.

Registers, grilles, diffusers, and other air distribution

devices must be cleaned and restored to their previous
position.
6.2.1

Duct Systems

7.1

Air Handling Units, Terminal Units (control

boxes, dual duct boxes, etc.), Blowers, and
Exhaust Fans

Coil Inspection and Cleaning Process

For the purposes of this standard a coil is defined as an

evaporator, chilled water, hydronic, steam, hot gas or
heat pipe which is located within the air stream of an
HVAC system for the purposes of indoor environmental
control.

It is highly recommended that air-handling unit (AHU)

internal surfaces, condensate collectors and drains be
cleaned by mechanical scrubbing methods. An
appropriate drainage system with sufficient capacity
must be in place and pre-tested prior to beginning wet
cleaning procedures. All air-handling components such
as coils, blower wheels, blower housings and related
components must be cleaned. During wet cleaning, it is
highly recommended that precautions be taken to assure
that fiber glass insulation and other porous materials do
not get wet.

The process begins with an inspection. The substances

deposited on the coil help determine the initial selection
of the cleaning protocol. There are two (2) categories of
coil cleaning. Coil reconditioning will utilize Type-1 or
Type-2 cleaning methods. Both Types require usage of
HEPA filtered negative air machines when exhausting
within an occupied space. HEPA filters are
recommended, but not required, when machines are
exhausted outside of building.

Evaporator coils, blowers, blower housings, and drain

pans will likely require multiple cleanings when
attempting to remediate mold contamination. Areas
expected to be cleaned should include blowers, fan
housings, plenums (except ceiling supply and open
return plenums), scrolls, blades, vanes, shafts, baffles,
dampers and drive assemblies. It is highly

Negative air machines must be operated continuously

during the complete coil reconditioning process. The coil
must be physically isolated from the duct system during
the cleaning process to ensure disrupted particulate
does not migrate to or redeposit on unintended areas.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

7.2

Coil Inspections

7.2.1 Preliminary Coil Inspection A visual inspection

of the coil and drain pan shall be conducted prior to
cleaning a coil. The data gathered from the preliminary
inspection will determine whether or not Type 1 or Type
2 cleaning is required. If it is determined the coil cannot
be properly cleaned through Type 1 methods, Type 2
methods are required. When the preliminary visual
inspection reveals suspect microbial matter on any
portion of the coil or drain pan, Type 2 cleaning methods
are required. When the metal fins of the evaporator coil
are deteriorating or showing signs of corrosion or
excessive metal loss, replacement is recommended.
When the inspection reveals that any surfaces of the coil
or drain pan cannot be accessed for cleaning, it is highly
recommended that the coil be removed for cleaning.
7.2.2

Type 1 Post Cleaning Inspection

Type 2 Post Cleaning Inspection

Type 2 inspections are conducted after completion of

any Type 2 cleaning methods. If debris still remains on
the coil after Type 2 cleaning, the process should be
repeated. When debris cannot be removed using Type
2 cleaning methods, replacement may be necessary.
7.2.4

Type 1 and Type 2 Coil Cleaning Methods

7.3.1

Type 1 Coil Cleaning

Type 1 methods of coil cleaning are appropriate for

removing loose dust, dirt or debris collected upon
evaporator coil surfaces. Physical removal of debris is
accomplished through a variety of methods which may
include:

This inspection is required after any Type 1 coil cleaning

has been completed. If debris still remains on the coil
after Type 1 cleaning, Type 2 cleaning is required.
7.2.3

7.3

Measuring the Effectiveness of Cleaning Efforts

HEPA filtered contact vacuuming the coil surfaces

with a vacuum capable of generating a minimum of 40 inches water lift. HEPA filtered contact
vacuuming must be used in conjunction with the
evaporator coil being maintained with a negative
pressure differential to the general work
environment.

Contact vacuuming may require the use of crevice

tools and brushes.

Brushes may be used for penetrating between coil

fins and up to the first row of refrigerant tubes
without damaging the fins.

Compressed air accelerator guns and wands may

be used to dislodge debris embedded between the
evaporator coil fins without damaging the fins.

Evaporator fin combs and fin straightening tools

designed to restore the evaporator coil fins after
initial cleaning

7.3.2

Visual observations of coil surfaces can be misleading.

Therefore a static pressure drop should be obtained
before and after the cleaning process to demonstrate the
effectiveness of such efforts. This type of
measurement, which can be performed using a
magnehelic gauge, or manometer, is a more accurate
indicator for the presence of debris that has either been
removed or remains within the coil.

Type 2 Coil Cleaning

Type 2 cleaning methods are appropriate for removing

adhered debris on all coil, drain pan and drain line
surfaces. Type 2 cleaning should be performed after
non-adhered particulate has been removed using Type 1
methods. Type 2 cleaning may include the following
methods:

Ideally, the reconditioning efforts should result in a static

pressure drop sufficient to allow the HVAC system to
operate within 10% of its nominal, and/or design (if
known) volumetric flow, which if needed can be verified
by an appropriate air test and balance
procedure. However it should be understood that other
factors such as air leakage, fan blade condition,
compromised duct, permanently impacted coils (which
are not capable of being fully cleaned) and other factors,
can have an effect on the overall static capability and
subsequent performance of the HVAC system.

Page 19

All methods under Type 1

It is not always possible to remove all motors and

electrical equipment from the coil area. However, it
is always possible to either remove, isolate and/or
protect electrical equipment.

Application of coil cleaning products. (Must be used

in accordance with the manufacturers product
labeling.)

Usage of electric chemical coil cleaner application

equipment.

Usage of water washing at normal water line

pressure.

Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

Usage of mechanically pressurized water washing

equipment.

Usage of hot water or steam cleaning equipment.

Employing HEPA filtered wet contact vacuums or

standard wet contact vacuum equipment located
outdoors.

Temporary Drainage systems for chemical cleaning

processes with sufficient capacity to capture and
discharge wastewater from the cleaning process.

This section defines processes for remediating mold and

other biological contamination within an HVAC system.
It is highly recommended the remediation plan for mold
decontamination include removal of contaminated
materials or employ aggressive cleaning techniques
when removal is impractical. Removal of contaminated
porous HVAC system materials is recommended (See
ACGIH Bioaerosols: Assessment and Control, 1999).

Creating temporary barriers to ensure that fiberglass

insulation and other porous materials will not get wet
or come in contact with chemical applications. At no
time should any porous materials surrounding the
coil section being cleaned become saturated with
liquids, chemicals or water.

8.1

The condensate drain pan and drain line must be

cleaned, reconditioned and completely flushed. The
condensate drain pan must be inspected to verify
proper drainage operation before and after cleaning.

Note: Cleaning methods and products must be pretested and determined not to cause damage to, or
erosion of, the coil surface or fins, and must conform
to coil manufacturer recommendations when
available. In order to limit damage to coils it is
recommended that only coil cleaning solutions that
are as close to ph neutral as possible are used. It is
highly recommended that coils be thoroughly rinsed
with fresh water in order to remove coil cleaner
residue from the coil surfaces.

8.2

Removal of Mold Contaminated Porous

Materials

It is highly recommended that porous materials with

actual fungal growth (Condition 3) be removed. The
exposed non-porous substrate underneath the porous
materials must be mechanically cleaned and treated
before new replacement material is installed.
When removal of all Condition 3 contaminated porous
material cannot be performed, partial removal to the
greatest extent possible should take place. This must be
followed by surface cleaning of remaining material using
mechanical cleaning methods.
8.3

Surface Treatments

It is highly recommended mechanical cleaning

procedures be performed on porous HVAC materials
prior to the application of any surface treatments such as
mechanical repair coatings. Surface treatments may be
used to restore the integrity of material surfaces only as
an interim control measure, and must not be used as a
substitute for mechanical cleaning or complete removal.
Surface treatments must only be applied after confirming
the system has been cleaned, utilizing the cleanliness
verification tests as defined in this standard (See Section
13).

*As of July 1, 1992, Section 608 of the US EPAs

Clean Air Act prohibits individuals from knowingly
venting ozone-depleting compounds (generally
CFCs and HCFCs) used as refrigerants into the
atmosphere while maintaining, servicing, repairing,
or disposing of air-conditioning or refrigeration
equipment (appliances).
7.4

Cleaning Methods

Surface cleaning must be performed using mechanical

agitation methods to remove particulate, debris, nutrient
sources and surface contamination. Mechanically
cleaned surfaces must be capable of passing
cleanliness verification methods as defined in this
standard (See Section 13).

* Coils that cannot be effectively cleaned in place

should be removed from the mechanical system for
cleaning.

Remediation of Mold and Other Biological

Contamination

Electric Resistance Coils

8.3.1

When cleaning electric resistance coils, the power

source to the coils must be deenergized and locked
out/tagged out in accordance with OSHA Standards.

Antimicrobial Surface Treatments and Coatings

Use of antimicrobial treatments and/or coating products

may be considered only after mechanical surface
cleaning has been performed and the need for such
treatment has been deemed necessary.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

manufacturer's written instructions or which are not

capable of providing a long-term, bondable surface are
beyond restoration. In such cases removal and
replacement of the damaged porous material is highly
recommended.

When used, antimicrobial treatments or coatings must

be applied in strict accordance with the manufacturers
written recommendations or EPA registration listing.
Any antimicrobial product used in an HVAC system must
be specifically registered by the EPA or other applicable
regulatory agency for use in HVAC systems, have
undergone a comprehensive risk assessment for such
use, and contain specific and detailed label directions. If
the label directions cannot be followed completely, use
must be avoided.

Fiber glass duct system materials with stable and

consistent surface integrity may not need resurfacing.
The benefits of resurfacing should be evaluated on a
case-by-case basis.
9.1.1

All resurfacing agents for use on surfaces within the

HVAC system must be classified as having a flamespread rating acceptable under industry standards
including UL Standard 723 or ASTM E-84, or applicable
local codes.

It is highly recommended that fiber glass duct liner or

duct board present in equipment or ductwork be cleaned
with HEPA contact vacuuming equipment, or other
appropriate equipment. The components being cleaned
must be under a consistent negative pressure differential
to the surrounding work area. Fiber glass materials that
become wet with cleaning fluids or water during cleaning
should be reassessed and potentially discarded after the
incident has occurred.

Resurfacing products must be applied in strict

accordance with the manufacturers written instructions.
Prior to coating application, all surfaces upon which a resurfacing coating or agent are to be applied must be
properly cleaned and capable of passing the cleanliness
verification requirements of this standard (See Section
13).

It is highly recommended that the mechanical cleaning

methods selected for duct liner or fiber glass duct board
not create abrasions, breaks or tears to fiber glass liner
or duct board surfaces. Cleaning methods used must be
capable of rendering the system visibly clean in
accordance with this standard and capable of passing
applicable cleanliness verification requirements (See
Section 13).

Treatment of rusted surfaces must only be performed

after mechanical cleaning and proper preparation of the
surfaces to be treated.
In no case must a coating or adhesive be applied prior
to, or in lieu of, mechanical cleaning methods, or prior to
cleanliness verification.

Thermal acoustic internal fiber glass liner, and other

thermal acoustic liner areas with visual signs of
degradation, such as delaminating, abrasions, breaks, or
tears may be treated with the appropriate repair products
only after mechanical cleaning has been performed. If
repairs are not practical or desired, it is highly
recommended that damaged materials be removed and
replaced.
9.1

Coatings and Insulation Repair Products

Fiber Glass Duct System Components

9.2

Damaged Fiber Glass Material

When there is evidence of damage, deterioration,

delaminating, friable material, mold growth, biological
reservoirs or excessive moisture accumulation such that
cleaning or resurfacing cannot restore fiber glass
materials, it is highly recommended that these materials
be replaced.

Resurfacing Fiber Glass Surfaces

In the event fiber glass materials must be replaced, all

replacement materials must conform to applicable
industry codes and standards, including those of UL,
ASTM and SMACNA.

Resurfacing of thermal acoustic fiber glass components

such as duct liner or duct board within the HVAC system
should be considered if the materials show visual signs
of abrasion or degradation or if the project requires a
change of the fiber glass original surface to a smoother
surface for reduction of the fiber glass ability to capture
and collect particulate. An assessment must be made to
determine whether the surface of the component will
provide a strong, bondable surface for the coating
material after undergoing proper mechanical cleaning.

9.2.1

Thermal-Acoustic HVAC Insulation Replacement

All metal surfaces of the duct system that have

undergone removal of degraded fiber glass duct liner or
duct board insulation or thermal acoustic material, must
have the base surface scraped clean and must be free
of loose, visible debris prior to installation of new
insulation. In the event the fiber glass removal was due

Fiber glass materials determined to be too unstable to

support a resurfacing product in accordance with

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

to mold contamination the base surface should be

cleaned to a Condition 1 status prior to reapplying any
fiber glass insulating products.

particulate and/or odors to the air stream and/or

adversely affect the quality of the air moving through the
system, restoration should be performed.

Installation of thermal-acoustic HVAC insulation common

to the air stream must comply with the following
requirements as well as applicable SMACNA and
NAIMA Standards.

10.2

Cleaning, restoration, and removal of porous insulation

are described in Section 8 of this standard.
10.3

All materials used for insulation replacement within the

HVAC system must meet or exceed the specifications of
the original materials or current applicable codes.
Installation of the replacement materials must comply in
strict accordance with the manufacturers written
recommendations.

10.4

Flooding/Water-Damage

All HVAC system surfaces and components subjected to

water-damage due to flooding must be evaluated and
categorized according to industry-recognized methods to
determine salvageability and restoration. Of particular
importance is determining the category of water causing
the damage, as defined in IICRC Standard S500 for
professional water damage restoration. To a large
extent, the category of water entering the HVAC system
will dictate methods of cleaning and environmental
engineering controls.

Following completion of the installation of replacement

materials, all new fiber glass surfaces must be capable
of meeting NADCA cleanliness verification requirements.
Fiber glass thermal-acoustic insulation materials may
require mechanical cleaning following installation to
meet NADCA cleanliness verification requirements (See
Section 13).
Restoration and Repair of Mechanical
Systems

Any system components and/or ducts deemed

salvageable must be thoroughly cleaned.

Restoration of HVAC system components is the process

of preparation, refurbishment, resurfacing, repair, or
replacement of any surface common to the air stream.
Restoration procedures must only be performed after
mechanical cleaning.

10.5

Fire/Smoke Damage

All HVAC system components subjected to heat and

smoke must be evaluated for restoration. Any
components and/or surfaces unable to withstand proper
mechanical cleaning and restoration are deemed beyond
salvage and must be replaced.

Air side surfaces of HVAC systems found to be

compromised during the HVAC cleanliness evaluation or
during cleaning must be documented for restoration or
replacement to industry standards, as required.

All porous surfaces subjected to fire/smoke damage

must be evaluated following proper mechanical cleaning
for friability and odor retention. Any areas assessed as
friable must be replaced or resurfaced.

HVAC system components subjected to catastrophic

events such as fire, smoke, flood, or water-damage must
be subject to restoration procedures. Component
degradation that results in compromised system
performance must be corrected through restoration
procedures if possible. HVAC component replacement
must take place if cleanliness levels specified in this
standard cannot be achieved through mechanical
cleaning and restoration methods.
10.1

External HVAC System Insulation

In those areas where accessing the system and/or

ductwork requires the removal of external insulation
and/or vapor barriers, these areas must be restored to
their original functional, thermal, and vapor retardant
integrity upon completion of the work and prior to system
reactivation.

All transverse joints of the replacement insulation must

be properly sealed with an appropriate mastic product or
fitted with metal nosing at each longitudinal joint in
accordance with applicable industry standards.

10

Porous Material Restoration

Following cleaning, any component surface exhibiting

damage due to heat exposure must be restored to an
acceptable condition or replaced.
10.6

HVAC System Repair

HVAC components requiring repair due to pre-existing

damage or degradation that are discovered during the
cleaning process must be documented and brought to
the attention of the building owner or representative.

Non-Porous Material Restoration

When the surface conditions of non-porous components

following cleaning reveal a surface that will contribute

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

No cleaning process must be performed that will

damage a properly designed, installed, and structurally
sound HVAC system and its components, or negatively
affect the performance, operation, or normal life
expectancy of the system.

Monitor the use of personal safety equipment.

Monitor the effectiveness of the cleaning methods in

accordance with the project specifications and the
ACR standard.

Repair or replacement of malfunctioning mechanical

devices is not included in the scope of this standard.
Restoration does not include the sealing of air leaks
within duct systems.

Document areas that have been cleaned.

Monitor proper closure methods for service

openings.

11

Provide project close-out documentation.

Project Monitoring

13

It is recommended that every HVAC system cleaning

project specification include a monitoring plan. The plan
must conform to the environmental engineering controls
defined in Section 5 of the ACR Standard.

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970

provides requirements for workplace safety and health.
The Act is administered by the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) under the United States
Department of Labor (DOL). The scope of HVAC
system cleaning projects can vary so much, that it is
impossible for the ACR standard to address compliance
with 29 CFR 1910 and 29 CFR 1926 in a complete
manner.

The process of developing a monitoring plan should

involve the building owner or representative. The
planning process must consider the following issues:

Protection for building occupants and contractors

employees during HVAC system cleaning.

Protection of sensitive equipment, building contents

and the need for containment zones in addition to
those required in Section 5 of this standard.

Health and Safety

12.1

Cleaning Contractors

Cleaning contractors must comply with all applicable

federal, state and local requirements for protecting the
health and safety of their employees, building occupants,
the general public and the environment.

Protection and deactivation of building safety

controls such as fire and/or smoke detectors and the
implications for occupant safety and false alarms.

When applicable, the following project monitoring items

should be incorporated in the implementation of a typical
monitoring plan.

The contractor must comply with all applicable OSHA

regulations. If the requirements of this standard and
OSHA regulations are not in agreement, then the more
strict requirements must always apply. In the United
States, applicable OSHA regulations include, but are not
limited to, the following:

Document project startup orientation meeting for

contractor and subcontractor job superintendents.

29 CFR 1910.146 Permit Required Confined Spaces

29 CFR 1910.134 Respiratory Protection

Document the type of equipment to be introduced to

the work site.

29 CFR 1910.1200 Hazard Communication

Verify acceptable hygiene condition of the

equipment prior to introducing the equipment into
the work site.

29 CFR 1910.147 Control of Hazardous Energy

29 CFR 1926 Subpart M - Fall Protection

Monitor indoor environmental conditions so that the

occupants will not be adversely affected by the
cleaning work. This may be performed by an IEP.

29 CFR 1910 Subpart I - Personal Protective

Equipment (1910.132 to 1910.139)

11.1

Project Monitoring Plan Elements

Monitor containment zone isolation effectiveness.

Monitor that only the chemicals and materials which

have been approved for use on the specific project
are brought on site.

The contractor should also be aware of other standards

and guidelines affecting both particulate removal and
mold or biological removal procedures. Applicable
standards and guidelines include:

Page 23

IICRC S500, Standard and Reference Guide for

Professional Water Damage Restoration

Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

IICRC S520, Standard and Reference Guide for

Professional Mold Remediation

Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial

Buildings, EPA Publication 402-K-01-001

A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home,

EPA Publication #402-K-02-003

Guidelines on Assessment and Remediation of

Fungi in Indoor Environments, New York City
Department of Health & Mental Hygiene, Bureau of
Environmental & Occupational Disease
Epidemiology

ASHRAE Standard 62-1989, Ventilation for

Acceptable Indoor Air Quality

Indoor Air Quality Association Guideline 01

13

13.2

Method 2 - Surface Comparison Testing

The Surface Comparison Test can be used to determine

cleanliness of both non-porous (metal) and porous (fiber
glass) HVAC component surfaces. The components
surface conditions are evaluated by comparing visible
characteristics of the test surface before and after
implementing a specific procedure of contact vacuuming
as defined in Section 13.2.2.
13.2.1 Contact Vacuum Equipment Criteria
The testing contact vacuum must be HEPA filtered and
capable of achieving a minimum of -40 inches of water
gauge. The contact vacuum should be fitted with a 2.5
round nylon brush attached to a 1.5 diameter vacuum
hose.
13.2.2 Test Method

Verification of HVAC System Cleanliness

The vacuum brush should be attached to the contact

vacuum and the device should be running. The brush
must be passed over the surface test area four (4) times,
with the brush depressed against the surface being
tested using light to moderate pressure (as used in
routine cleaning).

It is highly recommended that the cleanliness verification

be performed directly after an HVAC system component
has been cleaned and prior to the component being
used in operation. All verification tests must be
conducted prior to the application of any surface
treatments of the component's surface. This postcleaning verification process applies to all porous and
non-porous components within the HVAC system. The
verification inspection is not intended to determine the
reduction in biological levels. In order to measure the
appropriate reduction in biological contamination it is
highly recommended that the IICRC S520 mold
remediation standard be used in combination with these
verification procedures.

When the procedure described above has been

completed, a comparison must be made to determine if
the visible characteristics of the surface have changed
significantly. The HVAC component surface is
considered to be clean when there is no significant
visible difference in the surface characteristics.

The HVAC system cleanliness verification is not

designed to determine if an HVAC system needs to be
cleaned. In order to determine if an HVAC system
needs cleaning see Section 3 of this standard.

If surface comparison testing is inconclusive, then the

Method 3 - NADCA Vacuum Test protocol may be used
to make a final cleanliness determination. The Method 3
test procedure can be used for non-porous system
components only. The NADCA Vacuum Test does not
apply to porous system components.

Methods of cleanliness verification are described below.

13.3

13.1

The NADCA Vacuum Test is used for scientifically

evaluating remaining particulate levels of cleaned, nonporous HVAC component surfaces. Using this
procedure, a template (See Section 13.3.1.4) is applied
to the suspect components airside surface. A vacuum
cassette with filter media is attached to a calibrated air
pump and the open face of the filter cassette is passed
over two 2 cm x 25 cm openings within the template. At
no time can any portion of the vacuum cassette directly
contact the component surface being tested. The
template is specifically designed to allow the cassette to
ride above the surface being tested. Airflow is
accelerated through a narrow opening between the
template and the test surface of the component, allowing

Method 1 - Visual Inspection

A visual inspection of porous and non-porous HVAC

system components must be used to assess that the
HVAC system is visibly clean. An interior surface is
considered visibly clean when it is free from nonadhered substances and debris. If a component is visibly
clean then no further cleanliness verification methods
are required.
If the Method 1 - Visual Inspection is inconclusive
regarding acceptable particulate reduction, then Method
2 - Surface Comparison Testing must be performed (See
Section 13.2).

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Method 3 - NADCA Vacuum Test

Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

Remove protective plugs from the cassette. Cassettes

should be wrapped with shrink tape. Attach the outlet
end of the cassette to the air pump tubing.

any latent remaining particulate from the components

surface to be dislodged through increased velocity and
impinged onto the filter media within the vacuum
cassette. After this procedure is complete the cassette
is prepared and weighed to determine the amount of
total debris collected on the filter media.

Adjust air flow using an appropriate calibration device to

15 liters per minute. Once the flow rate is calibrated,
remove the clear plastic inlet cover, making sure that the
retainer ring (middle section) stays in place.

13.3.1 Test Components

Vacuum the open area of the template by sliding the

cassette from one end of each template opening to the
other. The cassette must be moved at a rate not greater
than 5 cm per second. The edges of the cassette must
always rest on the template. The cassette must not
touch the duct surface. Each templates openings must
be vacuumed twice (once in each direction).

13.3.1.1 Air Pump

An air sampling pump capable of drawing 15 liters per
minute through a cassette containing 37 mm matched
weight filters (two 0.8 micrometer pore size mixed
cellulose ester (MCE) filters in series) must be used.
13.3.1.2 Filter Media

Throughout the vacuum process, hold the cassette so

that it touches the template surface, with no downward
pressure being applied.

Filter media within the vacuum cassette must be 37 mm

mixed cellulose ester (MCE) matched weight filters (0.8
micrometer pore size preloaded in three-piece cassette).

After the templates openings have been vacuumed

twice, put the clear plastic cover back on the cassette.
The vacuum pump may now be turned off. Then replace
the plugs.

13.3.1.3 Calibration Device

The air pump must be calibrated using a calibration
device that is accurate to 5% at 15 liters per minute.

Label the cassette and record the area of the surface

sampled. The cassette may now be prepared and
weighed to determine the amount of debris collected on
the filter media. Analysis based on the National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Method
0500 (total nuisance dust) must be used.

13.3.1.4 Template
The template must be 15 mil thick (0.381 mm) and must
provide a 100 cm2 sampling area consisting of two 2 cm
x 25 cm slots at least 2.5 cm apart.
The standard size openings for the NADCA Vacuum
Test Template are 2 centimeters in width by 25
centimeters in length. At times, templates with slots of
this size may not fit in a space where testing is
necessary or desired. Slots of other sizes may be
utilized, subject to the specifications herein.

Scale sensitivity should be equal to or greater than 0.7

milligram and must be calibrated in accordance with the
manufacturers written recommendations. Results must
be reported in milligrams per 100 square centimeters
(mg/100 cm2) of sampling area.
Generally, samples are sent to a laboratory for testing,
however, sampling equipment is capable of being
brought on the work site. It is highly recommended that
samples be taken by an IEP and analyzed by an
accredited laboratory.

The template opening size and shape can vary provided

that (1) the total area to be sampled is equal to 100
square centimeters; (2) the maximum width of the
opening does not exceed 3.7 centimeters, so that the
sample cassette will not touch the surface being
sampled; and (3) the minimum opening width is greater
than or equal to 2.0 centimeters.

13.3.3 Acceptable Cleanliness Level

To be considered clean by the NADCA Vacuum Test,
the net weight of the debris collected on the filter media
must not exceed 0.75 mg/100 cm2.

13.3.2 Sampling Method

Secure the template to the surface to be sampled so that
it will not shift position during sample collection. The
template must lay flat against the surface to be sampled.
The surface to be sampled must be dry. The air-handler
must not be running when the sampling is being
conducted.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

14

Requirements for the Installation of Service

Openings in HVAC Systems

14.1

Applicable Documents

The following documents of the issue currently in effect

form a part of this standard to the extent specified
herein.

Fibrous Glass Ductliner Standard, 1994.

Cleaning Fibrous Glass Insulated Air Duct Systems,

1993.

14.2

General Requirements

The requirements shown below apply universally to both

removable duct access doors and permanent panels:

14.1.1. NADCA Publications

National Air Duct Cleaners Association, Washington,

DC.

Introduction to HVAC System Cleaning Services,

1995.

Service openings installed into the system shall not

degrade the structural, thermal, or functional integrity of
the system.
Service openings shall be closed in an air- tight manner
such that no apparent leakage inward or outward is
detectable.

14.1.2. UL Publications
Service openings shall not hinder, restrict, or alter the
airflow within the duct.

Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.

UL 181, Factory-Made Air Ducts and Air Connectors,

1995.

UL 181A, Closure Systems for Use with Rigid Air

Ducts and Air Connectors, 1994.

UL 181B, Closure Systems for Use with Flexible Air

Ducts and Air Connectors, 1995.

UL 723, Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of

Building Materials, 1996.

Service opening construction materials and methods

must be in compliance with industry standards and local
codes, using materials acceptable under those
standards and codes.
Materials used in the fabrication of duct access doors
and permanent panels shall be those classified for
flammability and smoke spread if the material is exposed
to the internal airstream. These materials are classified
as having a flame-spread rating of not over 25 without
evidence of continued progressive combustion and a
smoke-developed rating of not over 50, as determine by
UL 723.

14.1.3. NFPA Publications

National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park,
Qunicy, MA

NFPA 90A, Installation of Air Conditioning and

Ventilating Systems, 1993.

NFPA 90B, Warm Air Heating and Air Conditioning

Systems, 1993.

Metals used in the fabrication and installation of duct

access doors and permanent panels shall be resistant to
atmospheric corrosion and shall not be used in
combinations that will cause galvanic action which might
deteriorate any part of the system formed from such
material.
All materials used in the fabrication of service openings
shall be suitable for continuous exposure to the
temperature and humidity conditions of air within the
HVAC system.

14.1.4. SMACNA Publications

Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National
Association, Inc., Chantilly, VA

HVAC Duct Construction Standards-Metal &

Flexible, 1985.

Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Standards, 1992.

All tapes used in the installation and closure of service

openings shall meet the requirements of UL-181A and
be properly labeled as such.
Air duct coverings shall not be installed so as to conceal
or prevent use of any service opening.

14.1.5. NAIMA Publications

Where a service opening is necessary in an air duct
located above the ceiling of a fire-rated floor/roof-ceiling
assembly, access shall be provided in the ceiling and

North American Insulation Manufacturers Association,

Alexandria, VA

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

shall be designed and installed so as not to reduce the

fire resistance rating of the ceiling.
All service openings shall comply with applicable UL and
NFPA standards, as well as local and state codes.
14.3

Permanent Closure Panels

Closure panel seals shall be permanent.

Metal panels used for closing service openings in the
HVAC system shall be of a like gauge or heavier.
Metal panels used for closing service openings shall be
mechanically fastened (screwed,riveted, welded, or
clamped) every 4" on center. The panel shall overlap
the ductwork surfaces by a minimum of 1" on all sides.
Metal panels used for closing service openings shall be
sealed with gaskets, caulking, mastic, or suitable tape.
14.4

Removable Duct Access Doors

Duct access door frames and jamb seals shall be

permanent.
Metals used in the fabrication of removable duct access
doors for installation into the air duct system shall be 24
gauge minimum. The gauge of the duct access door
shall be based on the pressure class of the duct system.
14.5

Fibrous Glass System Service Openings

Service openings installed in fibrous glass portions of a

system must be constructed and closed in such a
manner that there are no exposed fibrous glass edges
within the system common to the airstream.
Any insulation removed during the installation of a
service opening must be replaced (with insulation of the
same thickness) or repaired so that there are no breaks
or openings that would form paths for heat loss or gain,
or for water vapor condensation to occur.
14.6

Drilled 1" Service Openings

Drilled 1" service openings must be closed with materials

having a flame-spread rating of not over 25 without
evidence of continued progressive combustion and a
smoke-developed rating of not over 50.
Any exposed fibrous glass edges within the duct should
be sealed with no breaks or gaps in the insulation.
14.7

Flexible Duct Systems

Service openings shall not be made in flexible ductwork.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

International Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Association

(IKECA)

Reference Documents
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute

Guidelines and Best Practices, 2004.

ARI 410-91 Forced Circulation Air Cooling and Air
Heating Coils, 1991.

National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA)

NADCA Standard 03, Requirements for Testing
Vacuum Collection Equipment, 2001.

Air Movement & Control Association

AMCA-99-86, Standards Handbook, 1986.

NADCA Standard 05, Requirements for the

Installation of Service Openings in HVAC Systems,
1997.

American Conference of Governmental Hygienists

Bioaerosols: Assessment and Control, 1999.

Understanding Microbial Contamination in HVAC

Systems, 1996.

Industrial Ventilation: A Manual of Recommended

Practice, 23rd Edition, 1998.

National Fire Protection Association

American Industrial Hygiene Association

NFPA 90 A, Installation of Air Conditioning and

Ventilation Systems, 1993.

Field Guide for the Determination of Biological

Contaminants in Environmental Samples, 1996.

NFPA 90B, Warm Air Heating and Air Conditioning

Systems, 1993.

American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air

Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
ASHRAE 33-78, Methods of Testing Forced
Circulation Air-Cooling and Air-Heating Coils, 1978.

NFPA 96, Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire

Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations,
2001.

ASHRAE 62-1989, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor

Air Quality, 1989.

NFPA 255, Standard Method of Test of Surface

Burning Characteristics of Building Materials.

ASHRAE Fundamentals Handbook, Terms and

Definitions, 2001.

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

Manual of Analytical Methods, Third Edition,
February 1984.

ASTM International
E84-00a Standard Test Method for Surface Burning
Characteristics of Building Materials.

New York City Department of Health, Environmental

Occupational Disease Epidemiology

C107100 Standard Specification for Fibrous Glass

Duct Lining Insulation (Thermal and Sound
Absorbing Material)

Guidelines on Assessment and Remediation of

Fungi in Indoor Environments, 2000.
North American Insulation Manufacturers Association

Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA)

Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Standards (Fifth

Edition).

Guideline 01
Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration
Certification (IICRC)

Cleaning Fibrous Glass Insulated Duct Systems

(2002 Edition)

IICRC S500, Standard and Reference Guide for

Professional Water Damage Restoration, 1999.

Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National

Association (SMACNA)

IICRC S520 Standard and Reference Guide for

Professional Mold Remediation, 2003.

HVAC Duct Construction Standards Metal and

Flexible, Second Edition, 1995.
Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Standards, Sixth
Edition, 1992.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

Underwriter Laboratories, Inc.

UL 181, Factory-Made Air Ducts and Air Connectors,
1995.
UL 181A, Closure Systems for Use with Rigid Air
Ducts and Air Connectors, 1994.
UL 181B, Closure Systems for Use with Flexible Air
Ducts and Air Connectors, 1995.
UL 723, Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of
Building Materials, 1996.
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Building Air Quality, December 1991.
Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial
Buildings, March 2001.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

Guideline to Assessment, Cleaning, and Restoration of HVAC

Systems ACR 2006
The following guideline provides supplementary reference information for users of ACR 2006. The material
contained within the guideline does not carry the official status of a standard, and the guideline
recommendations are not mandatory under ACR 2006. However, the two sections compliment one another and
should always be considered in tandem.

Chapter 1

Containment Engineering Strategies

Containment engineering strategies are used to isolate a workspace from other areas of a building. Most
containment engineering strategies involve creating barriers or pressure differentials that prevent the unintended
migration of airborne particulate into non-intended zones. Depending on the usage classification of a building
and the type of contaminants within the HVAC system, several different containment engineering strategies
may be employed. Four levels of work site containment controls are described below. The requirements for
each level increase in stringency. The highest levels of containment engineering are applicable to areas where
significant mold or other biological growth exists, or where the building use classification mandates special
protection, as in a healthcare facility.
As new information comes forth regarding mold and biological contaminants and their affect on human health,
the containment engineering strategies recommended below may require enhancements. These containment
engineering strategies are specifically designed with respect to protecting the indoor environment, contractors
and occupants from HVAC component cleaning and duct cleaning processes.
Level 1 Containment Minimum Engineering Controls
Level 1 Containment is applicable to HVAC system cleaning in buildings classified as residential, industrial,
light commercial and marine, provided that there is no known mold or biological contamination. If mold or
biological contamination is known to exist, Level 2 Containment may apply. The following protective actions
are required under Level 1 Containment strategies.

Protective Coverings Clean, protective coverings must be used within each work area. Protective
coverings must extend beyond the work area to provide protection of flooring, equipment, and furniture
whenever necessary.

Cleaning Equipment Inlet openings on all vacuum collection devices and negative air machines must
be properly sealed during transport and when the equipment is not in use. Vacuum hose openings must
be sealed during transport. All tools, equipment, and equipment components that enter the HVAC
system from an occupied space must be wet-wiped, HEPA vacuumed, or sealed in a disposable
polyethylene bag during removal from the HVAC system.

Cross Contamination Control Suitable provisions must be made to control contaminant discharge from
the HVAC system and cross contamination into occupied space during the cleaning process. This may
require temporary sealing of existing duct joints, seams and other system components.

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Level 2 Containment Work Area Containment without Decontamination Unit

Level 2 Containment may be applicable to HVAC system cleaning in any building use classification when mold
or biological contamination is known to exist within the system. In cases when microbial amplification covers a
surface area greater than 5 square feet, Level 3 Containment must be used. Level 2 Containment is the
minimum level of containment appropriate to a healthcare facility. All of the Level 1 Containment
requirements apply to Level 2 Containment areas. In addition, the following protective actions are required
under Level 2 Containment strategies:

Work Above Ceilings Above ceiling work area must be completely isolated from occupied spaces
within containment barriers utilizing 6-mil fire retardant polyethylene sheeting or equivalent. These
barriers must be sealed airtight where they meet the ceiling, floor, and walls.

Containment Area Floor The containment must have a two-layer floor utilizing 6-mil fire retardant
polyethylene or equivalent. The floor material must extend at least 6 inches (15.2 centimeters) up the
containment side walls. The floor material must be sealed to side walls with two layers of duct tape in an
airtight manner.

Containment Area Access A vertical cut in the containment side wall must provide access into the
containment area. This vertical cut must begin no less than 6 inches (15.2 centimeters) from the floor
and must be at least 5 feet (1.5 meters) long. The entrance must be entirely covered by two flaps (one on
each side of the polyethylene).

Negative Pressure The containment area should be kept under negative pressure at all times to the
degree feasible. Negative pressure must be sufficient to prevent migration of particulate material out of
the containment area. Exhaust from the device providing negative pressure must be HEPA filtered. If
this device does not exhaust directly outdoors, it must be possible to verify that there is no leakage
through or around the HEPA filter.

Dismantling Interior surfaces of the containment enclosure must be wet-wiped or HEPA vacuumed
before moving or dismantling the containment enclosure.

Level 3 Containment - Work Area Containment with Single Chamber Decontamination Unit
Level 3 Containment may be applicable to HVAC system cleaning in buildings where severe cases of microbial
amplification or hazardous substances are known to exist within the HVAC system or indoor environment.
Level 3 Containment is commonly the level of containment appropriate to healthcare facility cleaning projects,
including those where microbial contamination may not exist. All of the Level 1 Containment and Level 2
Containment requirements apply to Level 3 Containment areas. In addition, the following protection actions are
required under Level 3 Containment strategies:

HEPA-filtered negative air machines may be utilized as a supplement to containment techniques

described herein to control ambient airborne particulate levels.

Decontamination Facility A single chamber decontamination facility must be utilized in conjunction

with the containment area. The decontamination chamber must be attached and sealed directly to the
containment area. The decontamination chamber must be separated from the containment area by
double flaps of 6-mil fire retardant polyethylene sheeting or equivalent. The flaps must be attached at

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

the top and one side. The decontamination chamber must utilize double flaps for its opening to the nonwork area.

Monitoring Requirements Level 3 containment areas must be monitored for negative pressure on a
continuous basis by using an instrument sensitive enough to detect a loss of negative pressure.
Background monitoring for total particulate must be performed prior to set-up of containment to
establish baseline airborne total particulate concentrations. It is recommended that monitoring also be
conducted during set-up of containment. Real time monitoring for total particulate must be conducted
on a regular basis to ensure that particulate is not escaping the containment. If airborne particulate
levels exceed background levels, work must cease until airborne particulate levels are reduced to
background levels and the cause of problem is found and corrected.

Level 4 Containment - Work Area Containment with 2-Chamber Decontamination Unit

Level 4 Containment may be applicable to HVAC system cleaning work sites harboring hazardous substances
or those within a healthcare facility. All of the Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 Containment requirements apply
to Level 4 Containment areas. In addition, the following protective actions are required under Level 4
Containment strategies:

Decontamination Facility A decontamination facility as described for a Level 3 Containment area must
be utilized, except that the decontamination facility must consist of two chambers. Each chamber must
be constructed according to the requirements described for a Level 3 Containment area.

Monitoring Requirements Monitoring requirements described for a Level 3 Containment area must
apply. In addition, the containment must have a constant recording pressurization monitor with an
alarm.

HVAC Components Engineering Controls

Maintaining a pressure differential within HVAC system ductwork may not provide a satisfactory engineering
control to prevent the migration of particles when cleaning certain system components such as air-handling
units, control boxes, induction units, and other heating or cooling apparatus. Therefore, it is highly
recommended that alternative engineering controls for cleaning activities on these HVAC system components
be used. The type of engineering controls required for such components will vary depending on the size and
type of component, the classification of building the HVAC system is located within, and the types of
contaminants known to be present within the HVAC system.
An HVAC component with internal surface area being cleaned of not greater than 3 square meters (32.3 ft2) and
located within the occupied space must be cleaned utilizing a HEPA filtered contact vacuum and/or wet wiping.
When an HVAC component of internal surface area greater than 3 square meters (32.3 ft2) and located within
the occupant space is being cleaned, the work area where the component is located must be placed into Level 2
Containment. However, if the minimum negative face velocity of the work area service opening in the
component being cleaned is at least 100 feet/minute (30.5 meters/minute), then Level 2 Containment is not
required.
In cases where the HVAC system component is known to contain severe microbial amplification or hazardous
substances, or when the building being cleaned is a healthcare facility or other sensitive environment, isolation
of the equipment from the occupant space must be maintained using Level 2 Containment at a minimum.
Higher levels of containment may be necessary depending on the classification of building and contaminants
known to be present.
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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

Equipment Redundancy
Loss of containment caused by equipment failure can be avoided or minimized by providing redundant
equipment. Equipment redundancy is required on projects taking place within healthcare facilities as well as on
projects where severe mold or biological growth or hazardous substances are known to exist within the HVAC
system. When equipment redundancy is specified by the project plan, the following criteria must apply:

Secondary equipment, which is equal or greater in capability, is to be staged on the production site
creating redundant operations to meet the engineering, safety and containment minimum requirements.
It is highly recommended that all secondary equipment meet or exceed the same requirements as the
primary equipment. All equipment specified for redundancy purposes will be in the same location as the
primary equipment and pre-tested for operation. Redundant equipment must be specified as either
concurrent operation or non-concurrent operation.

Under concurrent operation, the redundant equipment must be fully operational while the primary
equipment is functioning. Loss of either piece of equipment should not alter the containment,
engineering controls or safety protocols of the project to a point less than the minimum requirements.

Under non-concurrent operation, the redundant equipment is not required to be operational while the
primary equipment is functioning. The secondary equipment must be wired, contained, isolated, vented,
secured, and fully prepared for immediate operation if failure of the primary equipment occurs.

In cases where the redundant equipment is connected to an emergency power source, the building owner or
representative must approve the use of that power source.

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

Chapter 2

Particle Profiling (PP) Procedures

Purpose: The Particle Profiling Procedure is a screening tool which may be used to assess to what extent if any
the HVAC system is contributing or introducing undesired particles to the indoor ambient air.
When properly applied and interpreted, this procedure can provide basic information for the investigator to
better understand supply air particle concentration and composition (within the limitations of the collection
procedure and lab analysis) of the conditioned (supply) air.
Overview: This sampling protocol establishes the amount of respirable (using laser particle counting
technology) and countable (using microscopic analysis) particles in the return space (before filtration at the
apparatus occurs) compared to the amount of particles distributed out of the supply ducts. This data is
compared to the expected particle removal efficiency of the air filter. Results obtained from this procedure are
interpreted by the investigator to determine if certain sources of contamination are likely originating from
within the HVAC system and are subsequently contributing these undesired agents or particles to the indoor
ambient air.
The protocol is a useful screening method that uses actual field measurements to assess the performance of the
existing HVAC air filtration, and potential air by-pass as well as to assess the ability of the HVAC system to
distribute certain undesirable particles into the indoor ambient air. Using the pre-cleaning data, the procedure
can also be used as part of the final quality control/quality assurance plan to assess the effectiveness of cleaning
efforts. The procedure is for use in general office environments. In the case of clean rooms, hospitals, critical
care environments, and similar sensitive environments, modifications and more detailed enhancements should
be made.
Individuals performing the procedure need to have a comprehensive knowledge of HVAC systems,
environmental testing, data interpretation and associated HVAC components. In particular, the individual must
have a comprehensive knowledge of air filter efficiency and outside air ventilation design to properly perform
and interpret the data that is collected. It is highly recommended that the person or company conducting the
procedure not be financially connected with any potential remediation company anticipating performing
remediation or cleaning activities. In general, it is highly recommended the procedure be performed by a
qualified and experienced indoor environmental professional (IEP) with experience in HVAC systems.
The Procedure includes the following components:

Visual Observations of the HVAC system: The technician performing the procedure must observe the
air-conditioning system interior for settled debris, air by-pass at the air filter bank and air by-pass in the
return duct or equipment cabinet. The observations must be documented with notes and/or photo
images.

Particle Measurements: Particle measurements must be taken at the return air and supply air registers.
A laser particle counter that has the ability to enumerate individual particle sizes and show a printout of
the results must be used. The measurements must be plotted on a filter chart, which may be found in
applicable ASHRAE documents (i.e., MERV test or dust spot tests).

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Air Sampling: Air samples using a fungal spore trap must be taken from the ambient air (inside and
outside the building) and from the supply air. The fungal spore trap needs to be analyzed by a qualified
laboratory. The analysis should include, at minimum, the type and quantity of fungal spores, man-made
vitreous fibers (fibrous glass), and opaque particles.

Surface Sampling: Surface samples using sticky tape must be procured from locations inside the
HVAC system. A laboratory must determine if fungal germination is or has occurred by analyzing the
samples.

Air Temperature and Relative Humidity Readings: Temperature and humidity measurements must
be obtained indoors and compared to requirements set forth in ASHRAE Standard 55.

Location of the outdoor air ventilation must be properly accounted for when using the procedure. Detailed
requirements for the analytical procedures listed above are contained in the following sections.
Particle Measurements
Particle measurements should be taken using a 6-channel laser particle counter operating at a flow rate of 0.1
CFM.
Three (3) samples must be taken at the return air entering the air-handling unit. Samples must also be taken at
approximately 50% of the supply air outlets. For more aggressive sampling, one (1) sample should be procured
at a supply outlet during start up of the indoor fan, and one (1) sample should be taken while lightly tapping on
the side of the duct.
The particle size range to be studied includes the following: 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1.0, 2.0, and 5.0 micrometers (m).
The coincidence error is less than 5% at 2 x 106 particles/cu. ft.
The particle counter must be properly prepared before sampling occurs. The following actions must be
performed:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Check battery level to ensure unit does not become non-operational during sampling.
Program time and date to current settings.
Turn printer option on.
Turn machine on, attach purge filter, and run in concentration (CONCEN) mode for 1 minute. At
the end of 1 minute, print the particle count taken with the purge filter on and stop the unit.
5. Replace the purge filter with the sampling probe.
The laser particle counter should be zero counted and purged each day prior to use (the manufacturers
instructions should be followed for this procedure. The laser particle counter should be factory calibrated and
serviced in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations (once a year).
When performing the sampling, the following procedures must be followed in sequence:
1. Set unit to desired number of samples (enough for a representative sample).

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Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration of HVAC Systems ACR 2006

2. Set period to 1 minute.

3. Set hold time based on accessibility to sampling locations.
4. Enable print mode.
5. Set location to a representative number.
6. Place counter in an area representative of the return air.
7. Run sampler in auto mode for length of preprogrammed time.
8. Remove sampling probe and replace with isokinetic probe.
9. Set the number of samples equal to the number taken in the return air.
10. Set location to a representative number.
11. Sample in the supply ducts by placing the isokinetic tube into the register openings, a different
register per sample.
12. Continue this for the duration of the sample.
The data collected may be used to calculate the percentage increase or decrease in particulate measured in the
air. The calculations must be performed using the following formula:

% Increase or Decrease = 100

Supply Air

-1
Return Air

Once the calculations are completed, the data should be plotted on a modified ASHRAE filter efficiency
performance chart.
Air Sampling
Air sampling for fungal spores must be performed using spore trap sampling procedures and a fungal spore trap.
The pump used in this procedure must be operated at a properly calibrated flow rate as recommended by the
cassette manufacturer.
Prior to sampling, a field calibration should be performed using a standard calibrated rotometer (with a cassette
attached).
One (1) sample must be taken of the ambient indoor air. One (1) sample must be taken of the supply air. One
(1) sample must be taken of the return air.
The following sampling procedure must be followed:
1. The fungal spore trap should be attached to the pump and the inlet cover or seal tape removed.
2. The sampling pump/cassette should be placed in the appropriate location at the return air, supply
air and in the ambient air and operated for a period of time as recommended by the cassette
manufacturer or as required to obtain the necessary results. Supply air samples should be
obtained underneath a supply air vent in a manner that prevents mixing with ambient air, and
should be located in an air stream that is operating at the same approximate static pressure as the
pump discharge. Return samples should be obtained with the outside air accounted for in order to
provide a true representation of filter performance.

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Spores will be identified and enumerated within analytical limitations. Concentrations are reported in spores
per cubic meter. Analysis shall be by direct microscopic analysis by a qualified laboratory.
Surface Sampling
Surface samples must be taken to determine if fungal amplification is occurring within the HVAC system.
Samples must be taken using sticky tape mounted to a slide.
One (1) must be taken from the return duct. Two (2) samples must be taken from the air-handling unit. Two
(2) samples must be taken from the supply plenum, or supply duct (depending upon accessibility).
The following procedures must be followed when performing the sampling:
1. Technician should wear clean examination gloves during the handling of all components (slides and
tape).
2. The sticky tape should be impinged on the area to be sampled.
3. The tape should then be placed on a slide, properly labeled, and stored as not to cross-contaminate
the samples.
The presence of spores and/or hyphal elements will be identified by direct microscopic analysis by a qualified
laboratory.
Conclusions
The observations and data collected must be reviewed to determine if significant debris is present in the HVAC
system, or if a fungal reservoir or other undesired contaminant (which can significantly affect the quality of the
indoor air) exists in the HVAC system. Positive determinations indicate a need for cleaning. Likewise, if the
analytical data demonstrates the HVAC system is introducing unwanted contaminants at undesired or
unacceptable levels, then cleaning is necessary.
If temperature and humidity conditions exceed the ASHRAE acceptable range, this indicates the need for an
engineering study to correct deficiencies.

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Chapter 3

Guidelines for Constructing Service Openings in HVAC Systems

Opening & Closing Externally Insulated Sheet Metal Air Ducts
When creating a service opening in externally-wrapped sheet-metal ducts, the external insulation should be cut
on three sides, and folded out of the way, if the service opening is to be sealed with a closure panel. (If a
permanent access door is to be installed in the service opening, all four sides of the external wrap should be cut
and the insulation removed and discarded.) The sheet-metal should then be cut with industry-specific tools in
such a manner as to leave the edges straight, free of burrs, bends, and deflections.
The closure panel must be of the same material and gauge (or heavier) as the duct wall to which it will be
attached. If either dimension of the panel meets or exceeds 18", the panel must be fabricated with cross breaks.
When installing a closure panel, a bead of caulking/mastic must be applied around the edge of the opening, and
the panel is then placed over the opening. Gasketing may be used in place of caulking/mastic. The panel must
overlap the duct wall edges by a minimum of 1 on all sides. Secure the closure panel to the duct wall with
screws or other mechanical fasteners 4" O.C. If an approved tape is to be used to seal the closure panel, rather
than a sealant, the tape should be applied after the installation of the mechanical fasteners.
The external insulation should then be re-installed in its original position and fastened with staples and
approved tape or mastic in such a manner that the vapor barrier is restored.
Drilled openings in the sheet metal duct from 1"-3" in diameter are approved for use. If the material used to
close these service openings is common to the interior of the duct and subsequently, common to the airstream,
those materials shall have a flame-spread rating of not over 25 without evidence on continued progressive
combustion and a smoke-developed rating of not over 50.
Opening & Closing of Lined Sheet Metal Air Ducts
When opening internally lined sheet-metal ducts, the openings should be made in such a manner as to provide
straight sheet metal edges free of burrs, bends, or deflections. Discard the removed sheet-metal section as this
will be replaced with a closure panel. The closure panel shall overlap the service opening by a minimum of 1"
on all sides when installed.
Using a template 2" smaller in each dimension of the finished closure panel, mark the duct and cut the sheet
metal. Discard the sheet metal. Using a sharp knife, cut out the piece of duct liner to match the size of the
service opening and discard it as well.
When closing this opening, the closure panel shall have a new piece of duct liner glued and pinned to the
closure panel. Use an approved coating or an approved duct liner adhesive meeting requirements of ASTM916
for all exposed edges created when the duct liner was cut. If the duct is lined with a rigid liner board insulation,
it can be reused if it is deemed mechanically sound.

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Apply a bead of sealant or mastic around the opening and mechanically fasten the closure panel to the duct wall
with screws 4" O.C. Ensure that there are no breaks in the sealant. If an approved tape is to be used to seal the
closure panel, rather than a sealant, the tape should be applied after the installation of the mechanical fasteners.
Drilled 1" service openings shall be closed with materials having a flame-spread rating of not over 25 without
evidence of continued progressive combustion and a smoke-developed rating of not over 50. Any exposed
fibrous glass edges within the duct should be sealed with no breaks or gaps in the insulation.
Opening and Closing Fibrous Glass Ducts
If the opening is to be less than the full height of the duct, the service openings should be made using either a
straight knife or a shiplap tool to cut a converging 45 degree angle on all four sides. If the opening is to be full
height, determine which of the longitudinal joints (top or bottom) will serve as the hinge for the opening.
Make converging 45 degree cuts along the remaining three sides. This section of the duct can either be lifted up
or dropped down out of the way, dependent on the location of the cut. Along the corners of the duct the cuts
should only be made through the facing of the duct.
Before re-installing the original section of duct, apply an approved ductliner adhesive meeting ASTM C 916
requirements to all cut edges of the section and the opening. Re-install the section to its original position. Seal
all sides of the original cuts with approved closure methods and materials. If tape is to be used it shall meet the
criteria of UL181A, part I or II, for fiber glass ductboard. The ductboard surfaces to which the tape will be
applied must be clean and dry. Dust, dirt, oil, grease, and moisture may result in bonding failure. Follow the
tape manufacturers recommendations.
Opening & Closing Flexible Ducts
Due to the nature of flexible ducting it is not possible or feasible to install service openings in it. The
recommended methods of accessing flexible ducts are as follows:
(1) Disconnect either or both ends of the flexible duct from the duct plenum or trunklines, the
equipment, the grilles, or the registers. Upon completion of the cleaning/inspection, re-connect the flex
duct to the metal collar with plastic closure straps or metal hose clamps. Seal the connection with tape
compliant with UL 181B, Part I, or mastic compliant with UL 181B, Part II. Check for local compliance
as codes vary from state-to-state.
(2) Cut cleanly through the flexible duct to produce two separate openings for inspection/cleaning.
Upon completion, insert the properly sized sheet metal connecting sleeve and reconnect the two ends.
Complete the closure as in (1) above.
(3) When replacing flexible ductwork, it is required that contractors follow all manufacturers
instructions for proper installation.

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Important Information
The guidelines shown above are not necessarily inclusive of all methods of service opening construction. The
provisions of this Standard are not intended to prevent the use of any material, method or system not
specifically addressed herein, provided that such material, method, or system meets the flame and smoke
criteria of this Standard and all other criteria of locally adopted codes.
No matter the type of duct construction, it is important that service openings be constructed in a manner that
facilitates a proper closure that meets the requirements set forth in the above Standard.
Contractors inexperienced in the actual physical creation of service openings are recommended to seek
professional training prior to attempting any procedures described herein.

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Chapter 4

International HVAC System Cleaning Resources

Several organizations around the world dedicate all or a portion of their efforts toward HVAC system cleaning.
The knowledge and experience of these organizations is shared globally through such forums as the
International Council on Ventilation Hygiene (ICVH) and NADCA.
The documents listed in this section encompass a portion of the most significant standards and guidelines
related to HVAC system cleaning produced by industry worldwide. Their applicability may be limited to the
nations or areas for which they were originally intended.

Japan
Japan Air Duct Cleaners Association (JADCA)
JADCA Publications

JADCA Technological Standard, 1990.

The Point of Diagnosis and Evaluation of Air Duct Cleaning, 1991.

The Actual State and the Cleaning Management of the Duct System, 1992.

The Guide to Cleaning and Management of the Kitchen Exhaust Duct System, 1995.

The Special Report, Duct Contamination, 1997.

Textbook of Certification Program for Air System Cleaning Specialists, 1999.

JADCA Research Reports

JADCA-01 Methods to Evaluate the Duct Cleaning Efficiency, 1997.

JADCA-02 Light Transmission Measurement Method, 1997.

JADCA-03 Measurement of Dust Generation, 1997.

JADCA-04 Field Investigation on the Effects of Duct Cleaning on Indoor Air Quality with Measured
Results of TVOC and Perceived Air Quality, 1997.
Related Laws in Japan

Ministry of Health and Welfare, The Laws for Maintenance of Sanitation in Buildings, 1970.

Sweden

Checking the Performance of Ventilation Systems, The Swedish National Board of Housing, Building
and Planning. General Guidelines 1992:3E.

United Kingdom

TR17 Guide to Good Practice: Cleanliness of Ventilation Systems

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United States of America

National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA)

Introduction to HVAC System Cleaning Services (Guideline), 2001.

General Specifications for the Cleaning of Commercial Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning
Systems, 2001.

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DISCLAIMER
The Standards Committee of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) developed NADCA ACR 2006. It is
intended to establish the minimally acceptable criteria for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) hygiene
assessments, project design, cleaning, and verification. This standard is based on the collective experience of members
of the industry, but is not intended to be either exhaustive or inclusive of all pertinent requirements. The information
provided in this standard is offered in good faith and believed to be reliable, but is made WITHOUT WARRANTY,
EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AS TO THE MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR ANY
OTHER MATTER.
The provisions are not intended to be directed to any particular product or contractor, nor are they claimed to satisfy all
current legal, health and safety, or performance requirements related to contractual relationships for Heating, Ventilation
and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system cleaning projects. Following this standard does not guarantee compliance with any
regulation, nor safe, satisfactory, or complete performance of HVAC system cleaning. Users are cautioned that the
existing HVAC system design, installation, maintenance history, building design, occupancy and maintenance play a
significant role in managing indoor air quality. Thus, users of this document should understand the limitations with use of
this document in an attempt to mitigate indoor environmental problems. The information upon which this standard is
based is subject to change, which may invalidate any or all of the information contained herein.
NADCA, its members and contributors do not assume any responsibility for the users compliance with any applicable
laws and regulations, nor for any persons relying on the information contained in this standard. NADCA does not endorse
proprietary products, methods, or individual HVAC system cleaning companies.
It should be noted that this standard does not specifically address the protocols for service when potentially hazardous,
regulated materials are likely to be present in HVAC systems. Such potentially hazardous, regulated materials include, but
are not limited to, asbestos, lead and other chemical and biological contaminants. This standard does not address such
situations for two reasons. First, the worker safety and public safety aspects of operations involving hazardous materials
are, in many cases, governed by legal requirements imposed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the
United States Environmental Protection Agency and various state and local agencies. Second, unless HVAC system
cleaners are engaged specifically to perform hazardous material decontamination, the building owner and/or occupant
should bear responsibility for any consequences of encountering unexpected hazardous materials.

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FORM TO REQUEST FORMAL INTERPRETATIONS OF NADCA STANDARD ACR 2006

Mail to: Chairman, Standards Committee
National Air Duct Cleaners Association
1518 K Street, NW
Suite 503
Washington, DC 20005
PHONE (202) 737-2926
FAX (202) 347-8847

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I hereby grant NADCA all and full rights in copyright, to this request for interpretation. I understand that I acquire no rights
in any publication of NADCA in which this request for interpretation may be published.

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