Breathewell
STEP 1 OF 2Before beginning the cleaning process, it's vital to ensure that all equipment is ready and functioning properly. Preparation not only ensures efficiency but also maintains the safety of technicians and property.
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a. Gather all necessary tools.
Begin by assembling all tools before approaching the vent. This avoids interruptions during cleaning and ensures all parts of the vent system are properly serviced.
Essential Tools Include:
• HEPA-rated vacuum/dust extractor: Ensures fine particles are captured without re-circulating them into the air.
• Rotary brush kit with flexible rods: Dislodges dust and lint from vent walls, especially in long duct runs.
• Drill (corded or battery-powered): To power rotating brushes.
• Vent inspection camera: Optional but highly recommended for before-and-after assessments.
• Crevice tools and nozzle attachments: For tighter or oddly shaped duct segments.
• Compressed air tools (e.g., skipper balls): For pushing dust out of long or overhead runs.
• Protective gear:
i. Safety goggles (to guard against flying debris)
ii. Respirator mask (especially in enclosed spaces or older homes with possible mold or allergens)
iii. Gloves (for grip and protection from sharp vent edges)
• Extension cords & power strips: With surge protection, suitable for industrial environments.
• Drop cloths or plastic sheeting: To protect flooring or customer property.Essential Tools Include:- HEPA-rated vacuum/dust extractor: Ensures fine particles are captured without re-circulating them into the air.
- Rotary brush kit with flexible rods: Dislodges dust and lint from vent walls, especially in long duct runs.
- Drill (corded or battery-powered): To power rotating brushes.
- Vent inspection camera: Optional but highly recommended for before-and-after assessments.
- Crevice tools and nozzle attachments: For tighter or oddly shaped duct segments.
- Compressed air tools (e.g., skipper balls): For pushing dust out of long or overhead runs.
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Protective gear:
- i. Safety goggles (to guard against flying debris)
- ii. Respirator mask (especially in enclosed spaces or older homes with possible mold or allergens)
- iii. Gloves (for grip and protection from sharp vent edges)
- Extension cords & power strips: With surge protection, suitable for industrial environments.
- Drop cloths or plastic sheeting: To protect flooring or customer property.
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b. Check the Air-Cleaning Device for Functionality
Begin by assembling all tools before approaching the vent. This avoids interruptions during cleaning and ensures all parts of the vent system are properly serviced.
Essential Tools Include:
• HEPA-rated vacuum/dust extractor: Ensures fine particles are captured without re-circulating them into the air.
• Rotary brush kit with flexible rods: Dislodges dust and lint from vent walls, especially in long duct runs.
• Drill (corded or battery-powered): To power rotating brushes.
• Vent inspection camera: Optional but highly recommended for before-and-after assessments.
• Crevice tools and nozzle attachments: For tighter or oddly shaped duct segments.
• Compressed air tools (e.g., skipper balls): For pushing dust out of long or overhead runs.
• Protective gear:
i. Safety goggles (to guard against flying debris)
ii. Respirator mask (especially in enclosed spaces or older homes with possible mold or allergens)
iii. Gloves (for grip and protection from sharp vent edges)
• Extension cords & power strips: With surge protection, suitable for industrial environments.
• Drop cloths or plastic sheeting: To protect flooring or customer property.Inspection Checklist:-
Vacuum motor operation:
- i. Turn on and listen for smooth operation.
- ii. Check suction power using hand or test material.
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Filters:
- i. Inspect HEPA or primary filters for saturation or clogs.
- ii. Replace or clean filters as required.
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Hoses and seals:
- i. Look for wear, cracks, or improper sealing at joints.
- ii. Tighten or replace connections to avoid leaks.
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Collection bin:
- i. Empty any prior dust; start with a clean bin for accurate measurement of new debris collected.
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Power supply:
- i. Test outlets for safe voltage and grounding.
- ii. Confirm that extension cords are not frayed or overloaded.
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Vacuum motor operation:
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c. Ensure Safety Protocols Are in Place
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Technician Safety:
- i. Wear eye protection and respirator at all times when handling dry vent dust — it's flammable and may contain mold, dander, or bacteria.
- ii. Avoid loose clothing or jewelry when using rotary tools.
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Site Safety:
- i. Post signage if working in commercial areas or shared buildings.
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ii. Inspect surrounding appliances:
- Ensure the dryer is disconnected from the power or gas source.
- If gas-powered, confirm there's no active gas flow before proceeding.
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Vent access:
- i. Confirm whether the vent exits through a wall or roof.
- ii. Place ladders securely if roof access is needed and follow fall safety procedures.
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Technician Safety:
HVAC PROCEDURESFollow these standard operating procedures to ensure safe and effective HVAC dust extraction. Proper protocol maintains both technician safety and system efficiency while delivering quality results.
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a. Required Safety Equipment
- Protective gloves
- Safety goggles
- Face masks/respirators
- Ear protection
- Steel-toed boots
- Protective clothing
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b. Required Tools and Equipment
- Voltage tester
- Air pressure meter
- Inspection camera
- Vacuum system with Y-connector
- High-pressure air rods and attachments
- X-Acto knife
- Microfiber cloth
- Brushes
- Cleaning solution
- Fogging machine
- Gaskets and metal sheets
- Drill and plug set
- Air scrubbers
- Temporary "System Off" notices
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c. Pre-Job Safety Protocol
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Lead Technician:
- i. Test voltage tester on known live circuit
- ii. Turn off HVAC system at thermostat
- iii. Turn off main power at breaker/disconnect
- iv. Use verified voltage tester to confirm system is de-energized
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Assistant Technician:
- i. Witness voltage testing procedure
- ii. Document power-down sequence
- iii. Place "System Off" notices at thermostat/panel
- iv. Inform homeowner system must remain off until completion
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Lead Technician:
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d. System Inspection
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Lead Technician:
- i. Examine HVAC system, furnace, air lines
- ii. Test heating/cooling functionality
- iii. Document findings
- iv. Identify access points for vacuum system
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Assistant Technician:
- i. Test airflow from each vent
- ii. Document readings and issues
- iii. Photograph/video initial conditions
- iv. Prepare documentation forms
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Lead Technician:
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e. Setup and Preparation
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Assistant Technician:
- i. Tape over vents to increase suction
- ii. Remove and clean vent covers
- iii. Bring in necessary equipment
- iv. Set up air scrubbers
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Lead Technician:
- i. Inspect problematic vents with camera
- ii. Mark vacuum system access points
- iii. Ensure evaporator coil protection
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Assistant Technician:
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f. Cleaning Process
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Lead Technician:
- i. Oversee vacuum system installation
- ii. Direct cleaning sequence (top-down)
- iii. Monitor suction efficiency
- iv. Supervise separate system management
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Assistant Technician:
- i. Operate vacuum system
- ii. Use air pressure rods
- iii. Clean high-contact areas
- iv. Maintain dust control
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Lead Technician:
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g. Documentation and Finishing
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Assistant Technician:
- i. Log all findings
- ii. Record videos of cleaned ducts
- iii. Clean up work area
- iv. Store equipment properly
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Lead Technician:
- i. Seal access points
- ii. Install plugs where needed
- iii. Place service stickers
- iv. Final system inspection
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Assistant Technician:
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h. System Restoration
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Lead Technician:
- i. Verify all access points sealed
- ii. Remove "System Off" notices
- iii. Restore power to system
- iv. Test system operation
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Assistant Technician:
- i. Final cleanup
- ii. Equipment inventory
- iii. Complete documentation
- iv. Obtain client sign-off
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Lead Technician:
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i. Quality Control Checklist
- System properly de-energized
- All vents cleaned and tested
- Access points properly sealed
- Documentation complete
- Area cleaned
- Client informed of completion
- System properly restored
