The cleaning of Air Handling Units (AHUs) in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems is critical for enhancing system reliability, indoor air quality, and specific energy consumption. This paper investigates the impact of AHU cleaning on energy consumption and overall system performance, a key aspect of energy efficiency in building management. A systematic comparison of two identical AHU systems-one cleaned and maintained (AHU-C) and the other left uncleaned (AHU-UC) was conducted by analyzing measurements collected over a year. AHU performance is assessed using key sensor data and indicators such as temperature and pressure variations, energy use, airflow, and indoor air quality; heat transfer and specific energy consumption are derived from combined sensor data. The results demonstrate that regular maintenance, particularly the cleaning of essential components such as filters, recuperators, ducts, and fans combined with inverter upgrades, significantly enhances system performance, in which AHU-C achieved energy savings ranging from 16.2% to 71.4%, with thermal exchange efficiency improving by 15-25% and airflow velocities increasing by up to 12%. The impact of cleaning was analyzed before and after maintenance, showing notable improvements in thermal exchange efficiency, airflow distribution, and system resistance. AHU-C exhibited lower power consumption and greater operational stability compared to AHU-UC. A comparative analysis of monthly energy usage patterns further highlights the long-term benefits of including cost savings and extended equipment lifespan. These findings provide empirical evidence supporting regular AHU cleaning as a key strategy for improving HVAC efficiency and sustainability. The developed analytical framework offers valuable insights for establishing evidence based cleaning standards and maintenance protocols, aligning with broader sustainability goals in the building sector.
The impact of air handling unit cleaning on HVAC electricity consumption and system performance
Facchinetti T.Membro del Collaboration Group
;Anglani N.Membro del Collaboration Group
2026-01-01
Abstract
The cleaning of Air Handling Units (AHUs) in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems is critical for enhancing system reliability, indoor air quality, and specific energy consumption. This paper investigates the impact of AHU cleaning on energy consumption and overall system performance, a key aspect of energy efficiency in building management. A systematic comparison of two identical AHU systems-one cleaned and maintained (AHU-C) and the other left uncleaned (AHU-UC) was conducted by analyzing measurements collected over a year. AHU performance is assessed using key sensor data and indicators such as temperature and pressure variations, energy use, airflow, and indoor air quality; heat transfer and specific energy consumption are derived from combined sensor data. The results demonstrate that regular maintenance, particularly the cleaning of essential components such as filters, recuperators, ducts, and fans combined with inverter upgrades, significantly enhances system performance, in which AHU-C achieved energy savings ranging from 16.2% to 71.4%, with thermal exchange efficiency improving by 15-25% and airflow velocities increasing by up to 12%. The impact of cleaning was analyzed before and after maintenance, showing notable improvements in thermal exchange efficiency, airflow distribution, and system resistance. AHU-C exhibited lower power consumption and greater operational stability compared to AHU-UC. A comparative analysis of monthly energy usage patterns further highlights the long-term benefits of including cost savings and extended equipment lifespan. These findings provide empirical evidence supporting regular AHU cleaning as a key strategy for improving HVAC efficiency and sustainability. The developed analytical framework offers valuable insights for establishing evidence based cleaning standards and maintenance protocols, aligning with broader sustainability goals in the building sector.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
