We Are Seeing More And More Attention to Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

8/16/2024 | Michael D. Vinick, ASCS, CVI, President - Duct & Vent Cleaning of America, Inc., Past President - NADCA

Duct & Vent Cleaning of America, Inc has seen a greater acceptance of our services. IAQ initiatives are now understood and being budgeted as an integral part of facilities maintenance.

Many facilities hire us to clean various HVAC systems within existing buildings. We also clean the HVAC mechanical systems components and ductwork in new and renovation construction projects as a part of the project to ensure the commissioning of the building is seamless. Our service protects the huge investment that has been made in the mechanical system and protects the future occupants of the building.

On a recent summer project we had scheduled, one contractor we work for let us know that the duct cleaning portion of the job was not going to be performed. It was “value engineered” out of the project. The property owner wanted to save money on the budget and perhaps the contractor offered the owner a credit (most likely for less than our services would have cost) and the contractor pocketed the difference in profit.

Why would a service like ours be “value engineered” out of a project to save a small portion of money on the project?

By “value engineering” duct cleaning from a specification, the parties involved in that decision are leaving the building owner with a huge amount of liability for saving a very small percentage of money in the budget. When a system does not operate as designed due to internal debris and dust build up, we see the systems run inefficiently. Not only does that consume more energy, but it also contributes to system failures. When an occupant has health problems, they may be able to trace the issue back to the construction dust and debris. Then everyone but the duct cleaner will get sued. That is because the duct cleaner was never hired.

Why take that risk?

Facility managers and contractors need to do everything they can to ensure that when the building is open for use, that their occupants are breathing clean air. Corners are not worth cutting.

Duct & Vent Cleaning of America, Inc is regarded as an industry leader internationally. We are here to help with any project. Contact us anytime!

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