Identify deficiencies that may impact IEQ and/or sources of odor concerns. Typically includes the following depending on the nature of concern, but not limited to:
- interview/questionnaire of concern individual(s)
- inspection above drop ceiling (condition of roof deck, pipe insulation, return air plenum)
- inspection of ventilation system (operation of variable air volume box and outdoor air dampers, check controls, measurements of carbon dioxide, temperature and relative humidity, sources near outdoor air intake, measure return and supply air volume, cleanliness of coils, liner and condensate pan)
- inspection of exterior
- inspection below drop ceiling (housekeeping, sink and floor drain traps, signs of past and present moisture concern via visual and/or moisture meter, mold growth, ensure connection of current and capping of abandoned sanitary vents, odorizers, excessive plants and fabric items, identify potential pathways, and measure volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and lighting)
Date of Assessment(s): December 1, 2020
A leak was reported to have occurred prior to December 1, 2020.
According to Building Services (HVAC), the moisture was from condensation from a ceiling mounted heater that was incorrectly receiving cold water during the cooling season. The school switched to a digital control system and this particular heater was missed during the switchover. Because the ceiling mounted heater was not designed for cold water it was not insulated. The uninsulated pipe and associated condensation was the source of the moisture. As we are no longer in the cooling season, the uninsulated piping no longer represents a source of condensation.
Approximately two square feet of drywall (below the leak) was reported to have suspect mold growth. However, the suspect growth was cleaned prior to the Office of the Environment observing it.
The area was screened with a thermal imaging camera. No thermal anomalies indicative of excess moisture were observed.
The area was probed with a moisture meter (drywall setting). No elevated moisture was detected.
The pipe insulation in the ceiling was water stained (no mold growth).
The two square feet of drywall presumably impacted by mold growth has been removed as it was not dried properly after the HVAC leak.
Building Services (HVAC) will replace the valve to operate in conjunction with the digital control system. Additionally, the water stained pipe insulation will be replaced prior to the cooling season.