Ductwork and HVAC components

List what belongs to the system

A ventilation or heating system can include ducts, grilles, equipment, filters, controls and connected spaces. Ask which components have been assessed and what basis supports each work recommendation. Cleaning visible grilles alone should not be described as a whole-system result.

Record known equipment operation during the event, affected areas and access limitations. Avoid operating damaged equipment or changing its configuration to test a pathway theory. Appropriate trade and manufacturer advice govern service decisions.

Use a checklist to ask better questions

NADCA’s commercial assessment checklist identifies smoke/heat-affected components as a reason to consider system assessment. It is a prompt for an appropriate inspection, not evidence that every system requires the same procedure.

Ask how residue concerns, heat damage, suppression water, internal access and equipment function are coordinated. Where different providers handle restoration and mechanical work, name the boundary between their responsibilities.

Ask for a component-level record

Avoid an airflow number becoming a work specification

The airflow worksheet provides unit conversion from your chosen assumption. It does not establish duct cleaning requirements, pressure controls or a safe HVAC operating setting. Ask the project professional for the actual design and verification basis.

References and scope

1. Commercial HVAC assessment checklist — NADCA.
   Industry assessment questions include heat/smoke-affected system components. Actual equipment and responsible professionals govern work.
2. ANSI/IICRC S700: fire and smoke restoration — IICRC.
   First edition2025; published scope only. Wildfire and exposure evaluation are not comprehensively addressed. The paid standard has not been reproduced.
3. Guidance for cleaner air spaces during wildfire events — Health Canada.
   Guidance for cleaner air spaces; actual HVAC selection and operation need appropriate expertise.

Source links checked September30,2026. General guidance and original planning questions do not establish the condition, exposure risk or clearance of a property.