Approved Tools & Products
Only the following tools and materials are permitted for HVAC mold remediation and IAQ preparation:
- Unscented, clear, dye-free dish soap
- Warm water
- Pump sprayer set to fine mist only
- Microfiber cloths (single-use, discarded after use)
- Soft coil brush
- Sealed HEPA vacuum
- N95 or P100 respirator
- Nitrile gloves
- Eye protection
- Disposable coveralls when heavy contamination is present
IAQ fogging or treatment products may only be used after physical cleaning is complete, and only per manufacturer label instructions and company protocol.
Required Prep Procedures
Before opening or cleaning any HVAC component:
- Shut the system off at the breaker
- Put on required PPE before accessing the unit
- Establish containment when heavy contamination is present
- Place a HEPA scrubber nearby when available
- The blower must never be running during physical cleaning
Failure to follow these steps risks cross-contamination and is not acceptable.
Cleaning Method – Critical Standard
The goal is removal without spread.
- Soap and water are mixed in a pump sprayer
- Microfiber cloths are lightly spritzed until damp – never wet
- Cloths are never dipped into buckets
- Use a wipe → fold → wipe → discard method
- One cloth per section; discard immediately after use
- No dripping water
- No direct spraying into HVAC components
If contamination cannot be removed without spreading, stop and escalate.
Physical Removal Procedures
Return Plenum & Cabinet
- HEPA vacuum loose debris first
- Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth
- Wipe all exposed metal surfaces
- Discard cloth after each section
- Repeat until surfaces are visibly clean
Blower Assembly
- Remove the blower when possible
- HEPA vacuum prior to wiping
- Clean blades using lightly damp cloths
- Allow full drying before reinstallation
- If contamination is severe or embedded, recommend replacement
Evaporator Coil
- HEPA vacuum accessible areas
- Use a soft brush with a damp cloth to gently clean fins
- Clean the drain pan and trap
- Flush the drain line
- Allow all components to dry completely before restart
Drain Pan & Drain Line
- Wipe the pan clean
- Confirm no standing water
- Verify proper slope and drainage
Supply Plenum (First 5-10 Feet)
- HEPA vacuum interior surfaces
- Damp wipe metal
- If liner is contaminated, stop and recommend replacement
Filter Housing
- HEPA vacuum interior
- Wipe clean and seal gaps
- Install a new filter (MERV 11–13 or higher as specified)
Registers & Grilles
- Remove registers
- Wash and dry completely
- Reinstall only when fully dry
Optional IAQ Fogging / Treatment
IAQ treatments are never a substitute for cleaning.
They may only be applied when:
- All treated surfaces are visibly clean
- The system is fully dry
- The service has been approved by the client
Treatments are used to:
- Reduce residual microbial particles
- Protect cleaned surfaces
- Support overall indoor air quality
Do not over-apply.
Always follow product labeling and company protocol.
Document the application clearly in job notes.
Approved technician explanation:
“We use this treatment after cleaning to help keep the system cleaner longer and support overall air quality.”
Final System Procedures
After cleaning (and optional treatment if performed):
- Keep the system off until all components are fully dry
- Install the new filter
- Run the system in fan-only mode for 15–20 minutes
- Take clear before-and-after photos
- Document findings, work performed, and recommendations
When to Stop Cleaning & Recommend Replacement
Cleaning must stop and replacement must be recommended when any of the following are present:
- Mold contamination in porous insulation
- Mold in lined ductwork
- Inaccessible or internally contaminated coils
- Repeat failures after prior cleanings
- Structural contamination beyond surface removal
Escalate to management and document thoroughly.
Technician Sales & Communication Standard
Technicians must use clear, non-alarmist language:
- “Cleaning removes the problem.”
- “The IAQ treatment helps keep it from coming back as fast.”
- “We never fog over dirt – we clean first, then protect.”
Clients are shown the condition of the system and allowed to decide.
No pressure. No fear-based selling.
