Your HVAC is an integral part of any cleanroom. Without it, your air quality would be compromised. Much like any other filter system, it does require routine maintenance. Cleaning your HVAC will not only keep it running properly, but also reduce energy costs, lengthen the lifespan of the system, and minimize the need for repair.

Here are five steps you should include in your routine preventative HVAC maintenance for optimal performance:

1. Clean the coils. Clean coils are important to mitigate changes of bacterial growth in the system. They also keep the system highly efficient. This is one of the most fundamental maintenance points for your HVAC. According to Controlled Environments “Optimal HVAC Performance Means Keeping it Clean,” you should “Clean regularly at planned system shutdown intervals and treat with EPA-registered mold and mildew inhibitors.”
   
   
2. Change the filters. Pre-filters, standard filters, and high-efficiency filters all work together in keeping contaminants out of the air and particles lower than .03 microns. You should clean your filters every 4-8 weeks.
   
   
3. Clean the ductwork. When you change your filters, you should also inspect the ductwork and clean when necessary. Duct cleanliness doesn’t matter as much in commercial HVAC systems, but they are very important in cleanrooms.
   
   
4. Clean the blowers. During your regular maintenance intervals, remember to also inspect and clean the blowers in air handler units.
   
   
5. Clean other main mechanisms. This includes vacuuming your tower and tower fill for cooling towers and boilers.

Keeping your HVAC clean and running properly spares you the hassle of and cost of shutting down your system for larger repairs.