Issue link: http://iaqnet.uberflip.com/i/637209
Best Practices n Select the product that represents the best balance between effectiveness, potential for least equipment damage, and lowest risk to users and occupants of spaces served by the equipment being cleaned. n Follow printed label directions. n For EPA-registered pesticides, use in compliance with the EPA-accepted label. n Use the smallest quantity of cleaner that will do the job. n Inform the customer that you will be using a coil- cleaning compound and provide him or her access to the label and MSDS. n Rinse thoroughly with clean water even if a "no rinse" cleaner is used. n Clean frequently enough that there is not a major buildup of soil. n Perform multiple cleanings if needed to completely remove soil. n Often coils can be more completely cleaned if they are removed and taken to a location outside or where plenty of water is available for thorough rinsing. Soaps and Detergents Product definition Soaps and detergents are technically known as surfactants, a word that comes from "surface" and "active." Soaps and detergents are substances that, when added to water, cause the water to dissolve compounds more easily. They do so by changing the properties of the water's surface. Typical use Soaps and detergents are used in general cleaning situations where heavy-duty or specialty cleaners are not required. Uses include washing register grills and wiping down surfaces. They may also be included in the ingredients of more specialized products such as coil cleaners and heavy-duty degreasers. Application method Soaps and detergents are simple to use. They are normally added to water in the amount desired, and the mixture is applied to the item being cleaned with a cloth, brush, or other scrubbing method. Check the manufacturer's instructions for recommended product- to-water ratios and other application recommendations. Pros n Simple to use. n Easily available. n Inexpensive. n Effective for mild to moderate cleaning jobs. Cons n May contain perfumes that occupants could find objectionable. n Not effective or only partially effective for heavy- duty cleaning tasks. EPA requirements Soaps and detergents are generally not required to be registered by the EPA unless pesticidal claims are made. Best practices n Follow the manufacturer's application instructions, including any safety recommendations. n If product is scented, ensure occupants do not object to using it. n Do not wet fiberglass or electrical components in HVAC systems. n Avoid damage that may be caused by dripping and leaking while cleaning. n Ensure any wet walking surfaces are taped off to avoid slips and falls. Degreasers Product definition A chemical product that dissolves fat-based and other water-insoluble substances. Degreasers vary in ingredients from simple surfactants (see above) to powerful caustics that can react with other chemicals. Typical use Cleaning grease or oils from a hard surface. In HVAC systems, a degreaser may be required if the system has been exposed to cooking fumes or fat-based contaminants. Application method "Cold cleaning" is generally referred to as cleaning below the boiling point of water or at room temperature. There are three general methods of cold cleaning - wipe or cloth, spraying, and dipping. Pros n Very effective. n Inexpensive.