HVAC Asset Planning with Conditional Analysis

A plan is only as good as the information that’s used to develop it. For example, creating an HVAC asset management plan requires that facilities managers know the effectiveness of their system on indoor environmental conditions. They must also know the system’s impact on the company’s bottom line. With this information, managers can plan for upgrades and parts replacement, and create a 5-10 year plan for HVAC asset management.

Three Parts of HVAC Asset Planning

An HVAC asset plan has three basic components. First, visual inspections play a key role in identifying potential problems. Second, the cleanliness of a system affects IAQ, therefore regular cleaning is needed. For example, dirty coils in the AHU make the system work harder. Third, restoration or replacement of worn-out or outdated components is a factor. Conditional analysis discovers issues impacting the system’s ability to provide clean fresh air indoors. It also provides recommendations for improvement. Armed with this information, managers can plan for upgrades and the replacement of HVAC parts. Of course, knowing the impact on energy costs is another important part of HVAC asset planning.

Inspections

Inspections should be scheduled quarterly, semiannually, and annually. Issues concerning the cleanliness of HVAC parts or equipment not operating properly must be corrected.

Quarterly Checks

Every quarter, effective HVAC asset planning calls for the visual inspection of all dehumidification and humidification devices for moisture as well as microbial growth. 

Semiannual Checks

• Ventilation and IAQ-related control systems and devices 
• Evaporator coil
• Outdoor air intake louvers
• Natural ventilation openings

Annual Checks

• Air filter fit and housing seal
• Fan blades and housing
• Drain pans, drain lines, and coils
• Heat exchange surfaces
• Damper operation
• All areas for biological growth

HVAC Hygiene Assessment

An HVAC hygiene assessment performs the necessary inspections and guides corrective action. It also gives building owners and managers important, detailed information on every air handling unit in their facility. It grades each AHU in the inventory based on mechanical and environmental or hygienic conditions. The assessment notes minimum maintenance activity as well as the frequency of ventilation system equipment and associated components. At the end of the assessment, a detailed report provides a summary of performance data and microbiological results as well as recommendations for improvements. It’s a critical part of HVAC asset planning.

Use the ASHRAE 62.1 standard in HVAC Asset Planning

The ASHRAE 62.1 standard for Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality Section 8 addresses inspections and cleaning of ventilation systems. In fact, this standard recommends 27 total areas for inspection and maintenance including a monthly inspection for Legionella in cooling towers. Thirteen areas of the ASHRAE standard deal with cleanliness.

Cleaning and Restoration

Inspections of the system come first then it’s time to make recommended cleaning, repairs, and part replacements.

Cleaning

Dirt and debris buildup in the AHU over time. As a result, performance degrades. The PURE-Steam HVAC coil cleaning method restores the evaporator coils and the AHU interior to near-factory specifications. The method uses steam heated to temperatures up to 350° F which kills bacteria and fungi. It pushes loose debris through the coil to improve airflow and Delta P (pressure). The result is a more efficient system that saves money on operating costs and extends equipment life. It is also the only Green Clean Institute-certified process in North America. Make it a part of your HVAC asset planning.

Restoration

The New Life system restores the HVAC system through the cleaning and disinfection of components. This process includes PURE-Steam which employs high-temperature steam to knock free dirt and debris. Additionally, PURE-Decon disinfects with EPA-certified electrostatic DEP sprayers. Further protection comes from the application of PURE-Coat. This anti-viral, anti-microbial coating resists corrosion and prevents microbial growth as PURE-Coil protects the evaporator coil and PURE-Liner protects the drain pan.

Benefits of Restoration Over Replacement in HVAC Asset Planning

Several benefits result from restoration over the replacement of mechanical systems. For instance, the cost is a big one. Refurbishing the system cost as little as 20 percent over replacement. Restoration also extends the life of equipment which lowers overall operating costs over time. As an example, performing a Q-PAC™ Fan Array upgrade increases the efficiency of the AHU which also lowers energy costs and removes the need for motor and belt maintenance. Likewise, there is the added benefit of improved energy efficiency as well. 

Start Your HVAC Asset Planning Today

In short, PureAir Control Services helps building owners and managers with HVAC asset planning. Creating a healthy indoor environment is an important part of maintaining a safe workplace and lowering operating costs. For more information, call us at 1-800-422-7873. You can also email us here.