HVAC Inspections Reduces Allergens and Microbial Contaminants

The building consulting experts at EC2 provide testing solutions for HVAC systems to determine if mold, particulates and other indoor air quality (IAQ) contaminants are present.

With Labor Day behind us the summer is coming to a close. Many HVAC systems have been running nonstop, but will soon be taking a break before they begin providing warm air to keep building occupants comfortable during the cool fall months.

The proper functioning of HVAC systems is vital for not only occupant comfort, but also energy efficiency and healthy indoor air quality. Given the critical function of HVAC systems in industrial, commercial and high-rise residential buildings, it is important that this crucial building system is working properly. HVAC systems can easily become contaminated with microbial growth consisting of mold and bacteria, especially from the use of air conditioning.

These microbial contaminants can grow on cooling cools or drain pans that are not visible to the building occupants, but are being blown out through air vents. Even once the air conditioning units are no longer needed, these microbial contaminants can still be spread throughout a building through the HVAC system even when the heat has been turned on.

It is a recommended practice to regularly inspect HVAC systems to ensure they have not become breeding grounds for microbial contaminants creating poor IAQ and sick building occupants. EC2, Inc. (ec2), a leading provider of environmental and building science consulting services, has conducted over 5,000 of these IAQ investigations across Chicago and Northern Illinois.

“Dirty HVAC systems can spread airborne particulates and microbial pathogens throughout an entire building,” reported Ed Chambers, President of ec2. “The end result leads to complaints, less productive employees, sick employees and even lawsuits. Infections from bacteria like Legionella and fungal lung infections such as aspergillosis all occur from breathing microbial contaminants. Improper HVAC combustion and venting can also lead to carbon monoxide poisoning”

To learn more about protecting indoor environments from unhealthy HVAC systems or to learn more about ec2 please visit www.4ec2inc.com, email info@4ec2inc.com or call (815) 703-9000.

About EC2, Inc.
EC2 is a leading provider of environmental consulting and inspection services for clients across the United States. Based in the Chicago area, the company provides their services to clients ranging from local companies and institutions to international Fortune 500 corporations.

Contact Information

Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

Contact via E-mail