Dirty Sock Syndrome and Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioners in Puerto Rico

Mini split air conditioning systems have become very popular in Puerto Rico due to their efficiency, cost and ease of installation. They can be found in residential, commercial and institutional buildings all across the Caribbean.
 
The main advantages of mini splits are their small size and flexibility for zoning or heating and cooling individual rooms. Since mini splits have no ducts, they also avoid the energy losses associated with ductwork of central forced air systems common in much of the rest of the United States.
 
One common problem associated with mini splits and other types of air conditioners is the growth of mold and bacteria in the air exchanger or evaporator. When this occurs it can create a condition referred to as Dirty Sock Syndrome in the HVAC community. Much like the name suggests, the smell of dirty socks or stinky cheese fills the room that is being serviced by the air handler.
 
“Dirty Sock Syndrome is often associated with systems that also have excessive moisture and standing water issues,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental. “When this happens it is also pretty common for there to be mold and bacteria growing in the unit. The microbial growth may be off-gassing microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) and putting spores or other microbial fragments into the air people are breathing. Exposure to any of these can create IEQ problems and could have an impact on the health and well-being of building occupants.”
 
Working to ensure people in Puerto Rico and across the Caribbean are not being exposed to airborne pathogens, irritants, allergens and asthma triggers in their homes, schools and work environments are the building science and indoor environmental quality professionals at Zimmetry Environmental. They offer building inspections, testing and consulting services to identify odors and airborne pollutants caused by microbial and chemical issues. If a problem is discovered, their experts can provide the knowledge and resources to eliminate the problem and keep it from coming back. 
 
To learn more about Zimmetry Environmental and air testing or other indoor environmental quality, building science, occupational, compliance and consulting services, please visit www.zimmetry.com, call (787) 995.0005 or email info@zimmetry.com .
 
About Zimmetry Environmental
Since 2002, Zimmetry Environmental has been providing environmental consulting services to building owners and managers, architects, engineers, EHS professionals and Fortune 500 companies. The company is based in Puerto Rico and provides services across the Caribbean and Central America. The professionals at Zimmetry offer environmental compliance, indoor air quality, asbestos, lead-based paint, Phase I ESAs and general environmental consulting services.
 

Contact Information

Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

Contact via E-mail