How HVAC Cleaning Boosts Energy Efficiency and Airflow

MT. LAUREL, NEW JERSEY [1/20/2025] — A groundbreaking study conducted by NADCA, The HVAC Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Association, in partnership with Dr. Mark Hernandez at the University of Colorado, has unveiled the remarkable impacts of routine HVAC cleaning on energy efficiency and ventilation performance, marking a significant leap in building maintenance and energy conservation strategies. 

Key Highlights of the Study:

  • Significant energy savings, with reductions in fan/blower energy consumption ranging from 41% to 60%.
  • Enhanced supply airflow, showing improvements between 10% and 46% compared to uncleaned systems.

The study emphasized that maintaining clean ductwork and HVAC systems directly improves ventilation and conditioned air supply. Poor airflow can lead to inadequate ventilation, while excessive airflow wastes energy. Routine cleaning helps achieve an essential balance between air quality, airflow, and energy use. "This study represents a significant step forward in understanding the benefits of energy savings and enhanced indoor air quality through routine HVAC cleaning. It highlights the importance of maintaining clean and efficient systems for the health of both buildings and their occupants," said Jodi Araujo, CEM, NADCA's Chief Executive Officer.

Scientifically Proven Benefits of HVAC Cleaning:

  • First-of-its-kind comparison of full-scale HVAC cleaning as an energy-saving intervention.
  • Improved energy efficiency and airflow rates.
  • Reduced system pressure fluctuations, ensuring stable operations.
  • Minimized reliance on backup equipment, contributing to long-term cost savings.
  • Demonstrated benefits of HVAC cleaning in diverse climatic conditions.

"The study's findings highlight how routine HVAC cleaning can deliver substantial benefits for energy conservation and indoor air quality. This approach not only supports sustainability goals but also ensures healthier living and working environments," said Tyler Batchelder, ASCS, CVI, NADCA Board Member and Co-Chair of the Energy Study Task Force. 

The research was conducted on moderately aged buildings (<20 years) across four distinct climates during peak cooling seasons. Findings revealed that routine HVAC cleaning not only improves energy efficiency but also enhances system stability, reduces operational costs, and significantly increases conditioned air supply for healthier indoor environments.

The findings advocate for routine and systematic HVAC maintenance as a critical component of building hygiene and energy optimization. Post-pandemic guidelines further emphasize the role of HVAC hygiene in ensuring healthier indoor air quality. The study also highlights the value of affordable IAQ and HVAC monitoring tools to facilitate data-driven energy and airflow management.

About NADCA:

The HVAC Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Association was formed in 1989 as a non-profit association of companies engaged in the cleaning of HVAC systems. NADCA’s mission is to represent qualified companies engaged in the inspection, cleaning, and restoration of HVAC systems, promote source removal as the only acceptable method of cleaning, establish industry standards for the association, and assist NADCA members in providing high-quality service to their customers. With more than 1,600 members, NADCA comprises a diverse group of HVAC industry professionals, including air systems cleaning specialists, mold remediators, and HVAC inspectors. To learn more about NADCA, visit www.nadca.com

 

Media Contact:

Ashley Meloni
ameloni@nadca.com

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