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NADCA Energy Research Project

Save Energy (and Money): Clean Your Heating and Air Conditioning System

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning a home or small commercial building is a big job that requires a lot of energy. In fact, this activity accounts for 30 percent of the energy used in an average home or small building. In addition, heating and cooling larger buildings is an even tougher job and accounts for up to half of the energy use in such buildings. On the whole, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems are by far the largest sources of energy use within a home or building.

Ironically, heating and cooling systems tend to be poorly maintained. These systems, which are used every day of the year, get dirty and can become heavily contaminated with dirt, dust, animal dander, and more. Further, heating and cooling systems in new homes and buildings are often heavily fouled – even before occupants move in.

Contaminated heating and cooling systems can be problematic for occupants. These systems contribute to poor indoor air quality in the form of increased airborne particulate and reduced thermal comfort. Fouled systems are also prone to failure. And from a cost perspective, these systems also use more energy than clean systems.