Appendix: Course Glossary and Outline
Certified Air Duct Cleaning Technician (CADCT) Course Outline
1.1 – Importance of Indoor Air Quality
1.1.1 – Understanding Indoor Air Quality
1.1.2 – Health Effects of Poor Indoor Air Quality
1.1.3 – Sources of Indoor Air Pollutants
1.1.4 – Role of Air Ducts in Indoor Air Quality
1.1.5 – Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning
1.1.6 – Air Duct Cleaning Process
1.1.7 – Additional IAQ Considerations
1.1.8 – Compliance with Regulations and Standards
1.1.9 – Documentation and Reporting
1.1.10 – Conclusion and Recap
1.2 – Basic Components of an HVAC System
1.2.1 – Heating Components
1.2.2 – Cooling Components
1.2.3 – Ventilation Components
1.2.4 – Distribution Components
1.2.5 – Controls and Thermostats
1.2.6 – Sensors and Detectors
1.2.7 – Filtration and Air Cleaning
1.2.8 – Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Features
1.2.9 – System Integration and Zoning
1.2.10 – Conclusion and Recap
1.3 – How HVAC Systems and Air Ducts Affect Air Quality
1.3.1 – The Function of HVAC Systems
1.3.2 – Air Circulation and Filtration
1.3.3 – Contaminant Sources
1.3.4 – Contaminant Accumulation in Air Ducts
1.3.5 – Impact on Air Quality
1.3.6 – Health Effects of Poor Air Quality
1.3.7 – Importance of Air Duct Cleaning
1.3.8 – Signs Indicating the Need for Air Duct Cleaning
1.3.9 – Air Duct Cleaning Process
1.3.10 – Conclusion and Recap
1.4 – The Impact of Poorly Maintained HVAC Systems on Health and Efficiency
1.4.1 – Health Effects of Poorly Maintained HVAC Systems
1.4.2 – Increased Energy Consumption
1.4.3 – Decreased System Performance and Lifespan
1.4.4 – Fire Hazards and Safety Concerns
1.4.5 – Environmental Impact
1.4.6 – Financial Implications
1.4.7 – Importance of Regular Maintenance and Air Duct Cleaning
1.4.8 – Conclusion and Recap
2.1 – Common Contaminants in HVAC Systems
2.1.1 – Dust and Debris
2.1.2 – Mold and Mildew
2.1.3 – Bacteria and Viruses
2.1.4 – Allergens
2.1.5 – Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
2.1.6 – Chemical Contaminants
2.1.7 – Particulate Matter
2.1.8 – Outdoor Pollutants
2.1.9 – Conclusion
2.2 – Health Effects of Indoor Air Pollutants
2.2.1 – Indoor Air Quality and Health
2.2.2 – Particulate Matter and Health
2.2.3 – Health Effects of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
2.2.4 – Health Effects of Mold and Mildew
2.2.5 – Health Effects of Bacteria and Viruses
2.2.6 – Health Effects of Allergens
2.2.7 – Health Effects of Chemical Contaminants
2.2.8 – Carbon Monoxide and Combustion Byproducts
2.2.9 – Impact of Sensitivity and Vulnerable Populations on Indoor Air Pollutant Health Effects
2.2.10 – Summary
2.3 – Biological Contaminants: Mold, Bacteria, and Dust Mites
2.3.1 – Mold
2.3.2 – Health Effects of Mold
2.3.3 – Identification and Prevention of Mold
2.3.4 – Bacteria
2.3.5 – Health Effects of Bacteria
2.3.6 – Identification and Prevention of Bacteria
2.3.7 – Dust Mites
2.3.8 – Health Effects of Dust Mites
2.3.9 – Identification and Prevention of Dust Mites
2.3.10 – Conclusion and Recap
2.4 – Non-Biological Contaminants: Dust, Dirt, and Volatile Organic Compounds
2.4.1 – Presence and Impact of Dust and Dirt
2.4.2 – Health Effects of Dust and Dirt Exposure
2.4.3 – Identification and Prevention of Dust and Dirt
2.4.4 – Presence and Impact of VOCs
2.4.5 – Health Effects of VOC Exposure
2.4.6 – Identification and Prevention of VOCs
2.4.7 – Presence and Impact of Other Chemical Contaminants
2.4.8 – Health Effects of Chemical Contaminants
2.4.9 – Conclusion and Recap
3.1 – Basic Principles of HVAC System Operation
3.1.1 – Fundamental Principles of Heating in HVAC Systems
3.1.2 – Principles of Cooling in HVAC Systems
3.1.3 – Principles of Air Distribution in HVAC Systems
3.1.4 – Principles of Ventilation in HVAC Systems
3.1.5 – Principles of Thermostat and Control Systems in HVAC Operation
3.1.6 – Principles of Air Filtration in HVAC Systems
3.1.7 – Principles of Energy Efficiency in HVAC Systems
3.1.8 – Principles of Humidity Control in HVAC Systems
3.1.9 – Principles of System Cycling and Load Calculations in HVAC Systems
3.1.10 – Principles of Airflow and Ductwork in HVAC Systems
3.1.11 – Principles of Environmental and Safety Considerations in HVAC Systems
3.1.12 – Conclusion and Recap
3.2 – Types of Air Duct Systems: Sheet Metal, Flex Duct, Duct Board
3.2.1 – Sheet Metal Ducts
3.2.2 – Flex Ducts
3.2.3 – Duct Board
3.2.4 – Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Type of Air Duct System
3.2.5 – Considerations for Cleaning and Maintenance
3.2.6 – Repairs and Modifications
3.2.7 – Proper Installation and Sealing Techniques
3.2.8 – Conclusion and Recap
3.3 – Components of Air Duct Systems: Supply, Return, Filters, Grills, and Diffusers
3.3.1 – Supply Ducts
3.3.2 – Return Ducts
3.3.3 – Air Filters
3.3.4 – Grilles
3.3.5 – Diffusers
3.3.6 – Other Components
3.3.7 – Proper Placement and Sizing
3.3.8 – Maintenance and Cleaning Considerations
3.3.9 – Conclusion
3.4 – HVAC System Controls and Thermostats
3.4.1 – Basic HVAC System Controls
3.4.2 – Thermostat Function and Types
3.4.3 – Mechanical Thermostats
3.4.4 – Digital Thermostats
3.4.5 – Programmable Thermostats
3.4.6 – Smart Thermostats
3.4.7 – Advanced Control Systems
3.4.8 – Conclusion
4.1 – HVAC System and Air Duct Inspection Basics
4.1.1 – Purpose of HVAC System and Air Duct Inspections
4.1.2 – Inspection Tools and Equipment
4.1.3 – Pre-Inspection Preparation
4.1.4 – HVAC System Inspection
4.1.5 – Air Duct Inspection
4.1.6 – Airflow Assessment
4.1.7 – Indoor Air Quality Evaluation
4.1.8 – Documentation and Reporting
4.1.9 – Safety Considerations
4.1.10 – Conclusion and Recap
4.2 – Use of Inspection Tools and Equipment
4.2.1 – Purpose of Inspection Tools and Equipment
4.2.2 – Common Inspection Tools and Equipment
4.2.3 – Flashlights and Inspection Mirrors
4.2.4 – Thermometers
4.2.5 – Moisture Meters
4.2.6 – Digital Cameras or Smartphones Equipped with Cameras
4.2.7 – Tape Measures
4.2.8 – Air Velocity Meters (Anemometers)
4.2.9 – Proper Handling and Calibration of Inspection Tools
4.2.10 – Conclusion and Recap
4.3 – Identifying Need for Cleaning: Contamination Levels and Locations
4.3.1 – Contaminants in Air Ducts
4.3.2 – Contamination Assessment Techniques
4.3.3 – Visual Inspection
4.3.4 – Contamination Levels
4.3.5 – Indicators of Contamination
4.3.6 – HVAC System and Building Factors
4.3.7 – Documentation and Reporting
4.3.8 – Conclusion and Recap
4.4 – Reporting and Documentation of Inspections
4.4.1 – Purpose of Reporting and Documentation
4.4.2 – Purpose of Reporting and Documentation (Continued)
4.4.3 – Inspection Report Structure
4.4.4 – Introduction and Scope
4.4.5 – Methodology
4.4.6 – Findings
4.4.7 – Recommendations
4.4.8 – Conclusion
4.4.9 – Accuracy and Objectivity
4.4.10 – Conclusion and Recap
5.1 – Planning and Preparing for Air Duct Cleaning
5.1.1 – Understand Client Needs and Expectations
5.1.2 – Assess HVAC System and Ductwork
5.1.3 – Determine Cleaning Methods and Tools
5.1.4 – Develop a Cleaning Plan
5.1.5 – Consider Occupant Safety and Protection
5.1.6 – Secure Necessary Permissions and Clearances
5.1.7 – Prepare the Work Area
5.1.8 – Assemble and Test Equipment
5.1.9 – Communicate and Coordinate with Team Members
5.1.10 – Conclusion and Recap
5.2 – Techniques for Cleaning Different Types of Ductwork
5.2.1 – Types of Ductwork Materials
5.2.2 – Cleaning Techniques for Sheet Metal Ductwork
5.2.3 – Cleaning Techniques for Fiberglass Duct Board
5.2.4 – Cleaning Techniques for Flexible Ducts
5.2.5 – Cleaning Techniques for Insulated Ducts
5.2.6 – Access and Entry Points
5.2.7 – Contaminant Removal Methods
5.2.8 – Cleaning Equipment and Tools
5.2.9 – Cleaning Process and Sequence
5.2.10 – Safety Considerations
5.2.11 – Conclusion
5.3 – Use of Cleaning Tools and Equipment: Brushes, Air Whips, and Negative Air Machines
5.3.1 – Purpose of Cleaning Tools and Equipment
5.3.2 – Brushes for Mechanical Agitation
5.3.3 – Air Whips for Dislodging Contaminants
5.3.4 – Negative Air Machines for Contaminant Removal
5.3.5 – Proper Techniques for Tool Usage in Air Duct Cleaning
5.3.6 – Equipment Selection and Compatibility in Air Duct Cleaning
5.3.7 – Safety Considerations in Using Cleaning Tools and Equipment for Air Duct Cleaning
5.3.8 – Equipment Maintenance and Cleaning for Air Duct Cleaning
5.3.9 – Conclusion
5.4 – Post-Cleaning Procedures and Verification
5.4.1 – Visual Inspection
5.4.2 – Final Cleaning Touches
5.4.3 – System Reassembly
5.4.4 – Filter Replacement
5.4.5 – Air Handler and Equipment Cleaning
5.4.6 – System Disinfection (if applicable)
5.4.7 – Verification and Testing
5.4.8 – Documentation and Reporting
5.4.9 – Client Communication and Education
5.4.10 – Conclusion and Recap
6.1 – Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
6.1.1 – Understanding PPE
6.1.2 – Assessing Hazards
6.1.3 – Selection of PPE
6.1.4 – Types of PPE
6.1.5 – Respiratory Protection
6.1.6 – Eye and Face Protection
6.1.7 – Hand and Arm Protection
6.1.8 – Foot and Leg Protection
6.1.9 – Head Protection
6.1.10 – Protective Clothing
6.1.11 – Proper Usage and Maintenance of PPE
6.1.12 – Conclusion and Recap
6.2 – Duct Cleaning Equipment: Vacuum Collection Devices, Agitation Devices, Inspection Tools
6.2.1 – Vacuum Collection Devices
6.2.2 – Agitation Devices
6.2.3 – Inspection Tools
6.2.4 – Vacuum Collection Devices: Working Mechanism
6.2.5 – Agitation Devices: Working Mechanism
6.2.6 – Inspection Tools: Working Mechanism
6.2.7 – Equipment Selection and Compatibility
6.2.8 – Proper Equipment Usage and Maintenance
6.2.9 – Safety Considerations
6.2.10 – Conclusion and Recap
6.3 – Safety Procedures and Hazards in Air Duct Cleaning
6.3.1 – Importance of Safety in Air Duct Cleaning
6.3.2 – Hazard Identification in Air Duct Cleaning
6.3.3 – Electrical Safety in Air Duct Cleaning
6.3.4 – Fall Protection in Air Duct Cleaning
6.3.5 – Respiratory Protection in Air Duct Cleaning
6.3.6 – Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in Air Duct Cleaning
6.3.7 – Chemical Safety in Air Duct Cleaning
6.3.8 – Biological Hazards in Air Duct Cleaning
6.3.9 – Equipment Safety and Maintenance in Air Duct Cleaning
6.3.10 – Emergency Procedures in Air Duct Cleaning
6.3.11 – Conclusion and Recap
6.4 – Handling and Disposal of Contaminated Materials
6.4.1 – Contaminated Materials in Air Duct Cleaning
6.4.2 – Containment and Control of Contaminated Materials
6.4.3 – Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in Handling Contaminated Materials
6.4.4 – Safe Handling Practices for Contaminated Materials
6.4.5 – Waste Segregation and Labeling in Handling Contaminated Materials
6.4.6 – Disposal Regulations and Compliance in Handling Contaminated Materials
6.4.7 – Waste Disposal Options for Contaminated Materials
6.4.8 – Documentation and Record-Keeping in the Handling and Disposal of Contaminated Materials
6.4.9 – Emergency Spill Response in the Handling and Disposal of Contaminated Materials
6.4.10 – Conclusion and Recap
7.1 – Duct Repair Techniques
7.1.1 – Assessment and Inspection
7.1.2 – Safety Precautions
7.1.3 – Selecting Repair Methods
7.1.4 – Cleaning and Preparation
7.1.5 – Sealing Leaks and Cracks
7.1.6 – Replacing Damaged Sections
7.1.7 – Testing and Verification
7.1.8 – Documentation and Reporting
7.1.9 – Conclusion and Recap
7.2 – Sealants and Coatings
7.2.1 – Understanding Sealants and Coatings
7.2.2 – Assessment and Surface Preparation
7.2.3 – Selecting the Appropriate Sealant or Coating
7.2.4 – Applying Sealants
7.2.5 – Applying Coatings
7.2.6 – Drying and Curing
7.2.7 – Post-Application Inspections
7.2.8 – Maintenance and Reapplication
7.2.9 – Documentation and Reporting
7.2.10 – Conclusion and Recap
7.3 – HVAC Filters and Filtration Systems
7.3.1 – Understanding Filters and Filtration Systems
7.3.2 – Assessment and Evaluation
7.3.3 – Selecting the Appropriate Filters
7.3.4 – Changing Filters
7.3.5 – Upgrading Filtration Systems
7.3.6 – Proper Installation and Maintenance
7.3.7 – Air Quality Monitoring
7.3.8 – Documentation and Reporting
7.3.9 – Conclusion
8.1 – Legal and Regulatory Aspects
8.1.1 – Overview of Air Quality Regulations
8.1.2 – Licensing and Certification Requirements
8.1.3 – Health and Safety Regulations
8.1.4 – Environmental Regulations
8.1.5 – Insurance and Liability Considerations
8.1.6 – Consumer Protection and Disclosure
8.1.7 – Documentation and Record-Keeping
8.1.8 – Ongoing Professional Development
8.1.9 – Conclusion
8.2 – Insurance for Air Duct Cleaning Businesses
8.2.1 – Types of Insurance Coverage
8.2.2 – General Liability Insurance
8.2.3 – Workers’ Compensation Insurance
8.2.4 – Professional Liability Insurance
8.2.5 – Insurance Policy Considerations
8.2.6 – Insurance Requirements and Contracts
8.2.7 – Risk Management and Loss Prevention
8.2.8 – Conclusion
8.3 – Documentation and Record-Keeping
8.3.1 – Types of Documentation
8.3.2 – Assessment Reports
8.3.3 – Work Orders and Contracts
8.3.4 – Photographs and Visual Documentation
8.3.5 – Permits and Licenses
8.3.6 – Maintenance and Service Records
8.3.7 – Retention Period and Legal Requirements
8.3.8 – Conclusion
8.4 – Client Communication and Service
8.4.1 – Understanding Customer Needs
8.4.2 – Explaining the Process
8.4.3 – Benefits and Limitations
8.4.4 – Potential Risks and Precautions
8.4.5 – Addressing Concerns and Questions
8.4.6 – Providing Written Information
8.4.7 – Communication during the Service
8.4.8 – Post-Service Education and Recommendations
8.4.9 – Follow-Up and Feedback
8.4.10 – Conclusion
9.1 – Marketing and Branding
9.1.1 – Understanding the Target Market
9.1.2 – Branding and Positioning
9.1.3 – Developing a Marketing Plan
9.1.4 – Establishing an Online Presence and Utilizing Digital Marketing
9.1.5 – Traditional Marketing Strategies in the Air Duct Cleaning Industry
9.1.6 – Promotional Materials and Collateral in the Air Duct Cleaning Industry
9.1.7 – Customer Testimonials and Referrals in the Air Duct Cleaning Industry
9.1.8 – Networking and Building Relationships in the Air Duct Cleaning Industry
9.1.9 – Tracking and Analyzing Results in Marketing
9.1.10 – Conclusion
9.2 – Writing Proposals and Estimating Jobs
9.2.1 – Understanding Client Requirements
9.2.2 – Proposal Structure and Components
9.2.3 – Scope of Work
9.2.4 – Pricing and Cost Estimation
9.2.5 – Timeline and Project Schedule
9.2.6 – Terms and Conditions
9.2.7 – Professional Presentation
9.2.8 – Reviewing and Editing
9.2.9 – Follow-Up and Communication
9.2.10 – Conclusion
9.3 – Effective Contract Management
9.3.1 – Understanding the Purpose of Contracts
9.3.2 – Essential Components of a Contract
9.3.3 – Identifying Risks and Liabilities
9.3.4 – Payment Terms and Pricing
9.3.5 – Project Timeline and Deliverables
9.3.6 – Terms for Changes and Amendments
9.3.7 – Reviewing and Understanding the Contract
9.3.8 – Signatures and Execution
9.3.9 – Contract Management and Compliance
9.3.10 – Conclusion
9.4 – Customer Service and Retention
9.4.1 – Understanding Customer Needs and Expectations
9.4.2 – Creating a Positive Customer Experience
9.4.3 – Effective Communication
9.4.4 – Professionalism and Courtesy
9.4.5 – Handling Complaints and Resolving Issues
9.4.6 – Building Long-Term Relationships
9.4.7 – Going the Extra Mile
9.4.8 – Customer Feedback and Surveys
9.4.9 – Empowering Employees for Customer Service
9.4.10 – Conclusion
10.1 – Dealing with Difficult or Unusual HVAC System Problems
10.1.1 – Identifying Difficult or Unusual HVAC System Problems
10.1.2 – Gathering Information and Assessing the Situation
10.1.3 – Problem-Solving Strategies
10.1.4 – Collaboration and Consultation
10.1.5 – Tailoring Solutions to Specific Problems
10.1.6 – Communication with the Client
10.1.7 – Applying Best Practices and Industry Standards
10.1.8 – Documentation and Record Keeping
10.1.9 – Continuous Learning and Professional Development
10.1.10 – Conclusion
10.2 – New Technologies and Innovations in Air Duct Cleaning
10.2.1 – The Importance of New Technologies and Innovations in Air Duct Cleaning
10.2.2 – Assessing and Monitoring Technologies in Air Duct Cleaning
10.2.3 – Advanced Cleaning Equipment and Techniques in Air Duct Cleaning
10.2.4 – Automated Cleaning Systems in the Air Duct Cleaning Industry
10.2.5 – HVAC System Enhancement Technologies
10.2.6 – Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
10.2.7 – Integration of Internet of Things (IoT)
10.2.8 – Training and Education on New Technologies
10.2.9 – Industry Collaboration and Research
10.2.10 – Conclusion
10.3 – Continuing Education and Certification
10.3.1 – Key Benefits of Continuing Education
10.3.2 – Importance of Industry Certifications and Credentials
10.3.3 – Available Certification Programs
10.3.4 – Opportunities for Continuing Education
10.3.5 – Staying Updated with Regulatory Compliance and Code Updates
10.3.6 – Professional Development and Specialization
10.3.7 – Career Advancement Opportunities
10.3.8 – Conclusion
11.1 – NADCA Standards and Guidelines
11.1.1 – Overview of NADCA
11.1.2 – NADCA Standards and Guidelines
11.1.3 – Key Elements of NADCA Standards
11.1.4 – Assessment and Inspection
11.1.5 – Containment and Protection Measures
11.1.6 – Cleaning Methodologies
11.1.7 – Verification and Testing Procedures
11.1.8 – Documentation Requirements
11.1.9 – NADCA Certification and Membership
11.1.10 – Conclusion
11.2 – EPA Guidelines on Air Duct Cleaning
11.2.1 – Overview of the EPA
11.2.2 – The Importance of EPA Guidelines on Air Duct Cleaning
11.2.3 – Key Elements of EPA Guidelines on Air Duct Cleaning
11.2.4 – Source Control
11.2.5 – Thorough cleaning practices
11.2.6 – Appropriate cleaning methods
11.2.7 – Prevention of Contamination during Cleaning
11.2.8 – EPA’s Perspective on Duct Cleaning Frequency
11.2.9 – Understanding the Limitations of EPA Guidelines
11.2.10 – Consultation
11.3 – OSHA Standards for Air Duct Cleaning
11.3.1 – Overview of OSHA
11.3.2 – Importance of OSHA Standards for Worker Safety
11.3.3 – Key Elements of OSHA Standards
11.3.4 – Hazard Communication
11.3.5 – Respiratory Protection
11.3.6 – Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
11.3.7 – Fall Protection
11.3.8 – Electrical Safety
11.3.9 – General Safety Practices
11.3.10 – OSHA Compliance and Enforcement
11.3.11 – Conclusion
12.1 Definitions
12.2 Organizations
12.3 Appendix: Course Glossary Outline