Commercial Air Quality Service and Repair

Portland-area residents spend up to 90 percent of their time indoors. Commercial air quality services help ensure the time spent inside is productive and healthy by setting up systems that manage, dilute and remove pollutants. Air quality problems are known to increase the risk of illness, and even a well-run building can experience poor indoor air quality (IAQ). By knowing common IAQ problems, what to look for and when to call a professional, you’ll ensure the health of your building and those within it.

Common Air Quality Problems

• Health-related symptoms: One of the first indications of an IAQ issue is the health of those inside. Symptoms range from ear, nose and throat irritation to dizziness.
• Improper humidity levels: Dry conditions can cause materials to become brittle and occupants to feel uncomfortable. Overly-humid conditions may promote mold growth.
• Odors: Odors are among the most common IAQ problems and have a variety of causes

Troubleshooting Air Quality Issues

While many IAQ issues require the help of a Portland HVAC contractor, there are steps you can take to narrow down the source of the problem:

• Take note of who is affected, when and where: Notice if the problems are widespread or localized to a certain area of the building, air-handling zone or floor. Determine if problems occur more during a certain time of the day, during certain activities or at certain temperatures.
• Make a list of potential environmental agents that might lead to IAQ problems: If you find the source of a problem (e.g., a blocked vent or a chemical), you might be able to remedy the problem on your own. Otherwise, review your findings with an IAQ expert.
• Look for sources of moisture or water damage: If you find a source, remedy it or contact the appropriate contractor to remedy the problem.

When to Call an Expert for Commercial Air Quality Repair

• The problem is too serious to delay a response: If workers are falling ill because of high carbon monoxide levels, mold, asbestos, lead, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) or suspected Legionnaires’ disease, call a Portland IAQ expert immediately.
• Uncontrollable odors: If the source seems localized, an expert might need to improve the air turnover rate. Other issues might include improperly-placed air handlers (e.g., in a janitorial closet) or poor airflow.
• Mold growth: Mold can cause serious illnesses and can be tough to locate. If it’s in ductwork, spores could spread throughout a building.
• Inadequate fresh air: If occupants complain about the building making them sick but there’s no obvious cause, a lack of ventilation could be the problem. Hire a professional to check carbon dioxide levels and ensure the HVAC system is supplying enough fresh air.
• The wrong equipment for your building’s purpose: The IAQ equipment used for a retail location, for example, might not be appropriate if the space is converted into a constantly-occupied office.

Tips for Maintaining Commercial Air Quality Systems

• Ensure vents in the building are not blocked
• Change HVAC filter at least once a month
• Schedule regular maintenance of your building’s HVAC and IAQ systems

If you’re facing air quality problems in your building, contact AAA Heating and Cooling right away. We proudly serve the Portland-metro area for all your commercial air quality needs. Schedule your appointment today.