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How To Clean Windows and Glass without Investing More Time or Money
Hiring professional window cleaning services for your building in Dubai is one of the critical aspects of property maintenance, and is a project that must be followed accurately and diligently. Unclean windows are not just an eyesore with the dust and grime attached to the windows, they attract a lot of bacteria too, leading to health concerns among the occupants and users. Window cleaning in high rise buildings is a very delicate job that must be done by professionals with expertise and knowledge of the field. How unclean windows can spoil the occupant’s health, not just the view There was once a joke circulating around social media channels about a couple observing their neighbour hanging their washing out to dry. The wife makes a claim that their neighbour hasn’t cleaned the clothes well, while the husband points out that it is not the clothes that are unclean, but the windows at their own house. Jokes apart, this applies everywhere, and in particular, offices and high rise buildings. Unclean windows are not a view-killer anymore, they can adversely affect the health too. The dirt particles stuck to the window may seem harmless at first but eventually they turn into breeding grounds for allergens, leading to all sorts of allergy issues leading to runny nose, headaches, breathing trouble, asthma and other health concerns. Additionally, dirty windows can cut the natural light considerably, making the rooms dark and gloomy during the day. And of course, the health hazard list goes on. Hiring professionals for a thorough cleaning It is pertinent to hire window cleaning services regularly to maintain the cleanliness of the windows. It is practically impossible to clean the windows without the proper tools and props in high rise buildings, and in rooms where the windows take up most of the wall areas. With professional window cleaning services it is possible to reach hard to reach areas. This is done through a rope access system which will cover the inaccessible areas, and the cleaning will be done in a way that’s much safer for the workers. They can do the job faster since the rope access system takes them to higher altitudes and comes down in a systematic manner. This is a non-disruptive and highly effective method that will complete the task effortlessly. As professionals, they will come equipped with their own tools, equipment and solutions to clean it thoroughly from the top to the bottom. Hiring professionals is actually a money saver because clean windows can keep the occupants healthy and allergy-free. Not to speak of the expertise and skill they possess to do a thorough and fast job. They cover the corners and the edges, and the window sill in a swift and scientific manner. Did you know cleaning windows regularly can save utility bills? It is true because clean windows promote heating efficiency of the HVAC systems, especially during winter months, as it lets the sun in. There are a multitude of window cleaning services, but you should be very careful and hire the right people. It would be perfectly fine if you could interview a few before actually hiring, because windows are very critical components of your property, and thus, cannot be left to amateurs. Your ideal window cleaning Dubai services must resonate with what you want - economical rate, long lasting results and of course, brilliantly beautiful glass windows. So, let the light in, and may those panes sparkle and shine brightly.
Read MoreGuidelines on Periodic Maintenance of the Air Conditioners
Air conditioners have a profound effect on how people live and work. Especially in hot regions, it is unimaginable to live without air conditioning. HVAC system (Heating Ventilation and Air-conditioning have made it possible to inhabit & thrive in extreme climate conditions and enjoy the benefits of living anywhere. Air conditioners can maintain the right level of temperature and humidity. . Air conditioners are designed to operate 24/7 to circulate air, filter air, remove pollutants and contaminants from the air. HAVC systems can provide thermal comfort and improve the quality of our life indoors. However, over the period, air conditioners efficiency diminishes due to wear and tear and lack of maintenance. The system can pose a serious health hazard for various reasons such as accumulation of dust, dirt and debris, mold and bacterial growth, water infiltration from damaged pipes, and other physical and microbial contaminants inside the system. Drawing contaminated air from outdoor through the fresh air intake can also contaminate the indoor air. Therefore, it is essential to maintain the AC systems and service them periodically. Moreover, the increasing awareness of energy consumption, demand for fresh and clean air as a basic necessity, opting for Eco-friendly options, and investments in sectors that require HVAC units to be operated almost all the time are also the driving factors to have an AC servicing specialized team to maintain the air conditioners, AC ducts and deliver energy-efficient solutions. Above and beyond, if Air conditioning maintenance or AC duct cleaning service is not carried out regularly, it leads to • various inefficiencies and wasted energy • pollute the air • increase in the utility bills • decrease the cooling effect • reduce the life of the unit • reduce the performance of the unit When to service the AC unit and do the AC duct Cleaning? Neglecting necessary maintenance of the AC systems leads to a steady decline in air conditioning performance while energy consumption steadily increases. To protect yourself as well as the machine, Air Conditioners cleaning is indispensable. Depending upon the frequency of use of the AC and the type of facility, the recommendedperiodic maintenance service of the air conditioners vary from once in three months to once a year. Inspecting electric connections, drains, AC duct cleaning, motor operations, verifying the system controls, thermostat functionality, and refringent pressure need to be addressed regularly for AC to function efficiently throughout its years of service. However, components like filters, coils, etc are to be checked more frequently.. Along with routine service, you have to also look out for signs and warnings shown by the system which indicates that your AC unit requires attention. If the air conditioning unit isn’t producing a significant amount of cool air, if there’s excessive moisture around the AC unit, if the air conditioning unit has been making unusual sounds, and if you do smell foul odor or water leak and most importantly, If the energy bills have gone up, then you have to call for a professional AC maintenance company like EPSCO. Maintaining the entire system in good condition is incomplete without periodical inspection of the duct systems and cleaning them when dirty. NADCA recommends inspection of the duct system at least once in a year. Rising Utility Bill Improper working of the AC unit can consume excessive energy leading to high electricity bills. It is normal to have a slight increase in energy bills in summer, however, if you notice there’s a huge discrepancy in the energy consumption, it is recommended to conduct the long due Air conditioning service. Uneven Temperature If the AC unit is producing warm air, creating uneven temperature, or taking time to cool the area, then it is one of the signs that the AC unit requires immediate servicing and repair. When coils are dirty, the heat gets transfer does not happen efficiently and therefore heat from the room is not captured by the coil.. AC Unit is taking too long to start If you notice that the AC unit is taking too long to initiate then there might be some issue with the system. Unusual Sounds AC units produce much sound. The unusual sound coming out of the AC unit indicate that there might be an obstruction in the fan, the sound indicates some electrical issues, there’s a refrigerant leak, or there might be issues with the motor bearings. If you notice unfamiliar sounds coming from the unit it is advisable to book an AC service immediately. Unit Running Longer If the AC unit runs for a long time and takes time to cool the space even after repeatedly adjusting the temperature, then it may be a sign of poor functioning of the system. If your AC system is not turning on or only runs for short periods of time before shutting off, is another indicator that the AC unit needs servicing. Bad Odor Bad odor coming from the AC unit indicates blockage, electrical issues, and mold contamination. The coils could be contaminated with microbial growth or there is mold growth inside the ducts. If there’s a musty or smokey smell, before it worsens you have to arrange for AC duct cleaning instantly. Water Leaks Water leaks from the AC unit also indicate improper functioning of the AC system. Water leaks might be caused due to overflowing or cracked drip pans, disconnected or clogged drain lines. The AC unit can also leak Compressor The compressor is the central component of an air conditioning unit. This major component of the cooling system, the compressor, regulates the airflow. The compressor applies the energy to move the refrigerant between the evaporator and condenser coils. Regular servicing of the compressor is required to ensure the smooth performance of the AC unit. Filters Filters remove dust, pollen, fungal spores, pet dander, and other small particles out of the air. If you don’t change your filter regularly, there’s a high chance of reducing the airflow and damaged filters can allow unfiltered air to flow into your living space and. It is recommended to clean or replace filters frequently. If the unit is installed in a place that is prone to pollution or dust then regular cleaning is required. Also, if you have an uncleaned air filter, the AC unit has to work harder to push air, which means could cost higher energy consumption. Condensation Drains The condensate drain plays an important role in removing condensation produced by the air conditioner's evaporator coil. Blocked condensation drains can cause damage to walls and carpets. When the drains are obstructed the unit stops reducing the humidity of the room and also the condensate water cannot flow through the drain and it overflows, damaging the ceiling and also helping mold growth. Eventually, water starts dripping from the unit. Factors like improper installations, outdated units, irregular checking can lead to clogging of drains. Coils If proper maintenance is regularly performed, then the evaporator coils last longer. However, dust and unwanted pollutants can affect the flow of air and can obstruct the evaporator coils. If it is not intervened on time, it can cause damage to the AC unit AC Duct Cleaning AC ducts are channels that supply air to cool each area. These are made of galvanized steel or comes in as pre insulated duct board ducts. AC ducts are connected to the air conditioner unit which filters the air and heats or cools the air. Along with maintaining the AC units, it is equally important to clean the air ducts that carries the air.. The air ducts build up harmful pollutants over time, once the HAVC system is turned on these pollutants flow through the air ducts and then seep into homes or workplaces. Breathing in air contaminated with pollen, dust, dander, and mold can cause serious health issues. Therefore, cleaning air ducts and keeping them free from dust, debris and other contaminants is essential to safeguarding the health and well being of the occupants. Professional AC Duct cleaning team uses either a simple mirror, a periscope, or the CCTV camera system with flexible cables to go all the way into the hard-to-reach parts of the air ducts system to inspect the contamination. Various tools are employed to scrub out the contaminants in the air ducts and vacuumed with a negative air machines. It is recommended to clean the AC ducts if it is found in the inspectins which following the NADCA standard is required every uyear.. Cleaning the filters, compressors, evaporators, or condenser coils in the AC is not an easy task. Only experienced technicians with proper knowledge can do it. Cleaning incorrectly is dangerous to the technician as well as to the AC unit. Therefore, hiring a processional AC cleaning service company is important. Also, there are numerous types of HVAC systems designed for different purposes. The technology, components, and installation process can vary from one another. Professional help has to be taken for the service of the AC since advanced mechanisms and complex technology are utilized in the system. EPSCO offers a comprehensive Air Conditioning cleaning service in Dubai. All the technicians are trained with extensive knowledge to cater to the optimal functioning of the HVAC systems. EPSCO guarantees par excellence service. Multicultural males advising with each other about repairing of air conditioner while standing near broken cooling system outdoors. Men using tablet for scrolling websites with useful information. Professional AC Duct Cleaning Dubai Services Tags: Professional AC Cleaning Dubai, HVAC Duct Cleaning Services, Air Duct Cleaning Experts Dubai, Residential AC Duct Cleaning, Commercial AC Cleaning Dubai, Indoor Air Quality Dubai, Affordable AC Duct Cleaning, Deep AC Duct Sanitization, Reliable AC Maintenance Dubai, Best AC Cleaning Company Dubai, Clean Air Duct Solutions, AC Vent Cleaning Dubai, Dust Removal AC Services
Read MoreFibreGLASS – Myths & Facts
For years fibreglass dust has been considered to be a nuisance (irritation) dust which does not cause disease. Now studies show that fibreglass dust can be dangerous, maybe as dangerous as asbestos dust. The implantation of fibreglass into the lining of the lungs of animals has caused cancer in the same way that asbestos does. Scientists now believe that asbestos causes cancer because of the physical shape of the fibre and not because of its chemical make up, This belief raises the concern that all fibrous materials could cause cancer. What is Fibreglass? Fibreglass is a part of group called Synthetic Mineral Fibres. Synthetic mineral fibres are fibrous inorganic substances made primarily from rock, clay, slag or glass. These fibres are classified into three general groups: (1) fibreglass (glass wool and glass filament), (2) Mineral wool (rock-wool and slag-wool), and (2) Refractory Ceramic fibres (RCF), *Glasses are a class of materials made from silicon dioxide with oxides of various metals and other elements that solidify from the molten state without crystallization. ** A fibre is considered to be a particle with a length-to-diameter aspect ratio of 3 to 1 or greater, respirable fibres have mass medium aerodynamic diameter approximately 3,5 urn or less, USES Generally, fibreglass is light, strong, resistant to moisture. odours, rot, and easily formed into complex shapes and they are dimensionally stable. These qualities make fibreglass an excellent material to be used in the construction of buildings and for pluming and air handling systems such as the HVAC insulation. Also fibreglass can be found in a large number of products: It’s used in vehicles bodies, vessels, insulation, fabrics, wire insulation in electronics, and replacement insulation for asbestos. Health Hazards: A Myth or Fact? Synthetic mineral fibres are believed to cause respiratory cancers and other adverse respiratory effects, Typical fibres from continuous filament fibreglass are not small enough to travel deep into the lungs. Instead, these larger glass fibres can be very uncomfortable and irritating to the skin. Smaller fibres associated with fibreglass wool have been developed for some industries, and can travel deep into the lungs. Once there, these smaller fibres have shown signs of being potentially carcinogenic (cancer-Causing) in humans, In 1988 the Internal Agency of Research on Cancer (IARC), a branch of the World Health Organization (WHO), classified fibreglass as a possible carcinogen. However, it must be noted that there are no conclusive facts that show that it does cause cancer. Evaluating the Exposure Dermatitis (rash), bad itching, sore throat, painful running noses, and excessive coughing are common complaints of people exposed to fibreglass and indicate the need for additional controls. The primary routes of potential human exposure to glass wool are inhalation and dermal contact. An exposure, which may cause long-term damage to health, such as: exposure to damaged or old dry loose fibreglass wool insulation inside the air conditioning duct system: grinding operation or any other operation causes a visible release of dust into the air. Large diameter (greater than 3.5 micron) glass fibres have been found to cause skin, eye, and upper respiratory tract irritation. While smaller diameter fibres <3.5 micron has the ability to penetrate the alveoli or deposit in the Alveolar regions of the lung, where gas exchange occurs (WHO, 1903). This is a potential cause for concern and is the primary reason that the fibres are subject to special controls, To determine if the indoor dust is small enough to be inhaled, industrial hygiene measurements are needed. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIDSH) NIOSH has proposed a new standard, which gives some guidance in controlling fibreglass dust. This standard is not yet enforceable in the US by U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety S. Health Administration (OSHA). The proposed standard measures both the total weight of all dust and the number of tiny fibres. The proposed limits for Total Dust Recommended Exposure Limits (REL] is 5 mg/m3 (5 milligrams per cubic Meter of air] for 10-hour Time-Weighted Average (TWA), While for Tiny fibres it is 3,000,000 fibres per cubic meter of air, NIOSH REL -TWA Fibrous Glass Dust Total for dust fibres with diameter equal or less than 3.5 urn (Micron), and length equal to or greater than 10 um is 3 f/cc (fibres per cubic centimeter of air). The TWAs apply to any 10-hour shift in a 40-hour work week (NIOSH, 1977). Scientists, view this standard as a minimum level of control but recommends air measurements to help evaluate the exposure. Regulations OSHA endorses major agreement with industrial groups in the US to protect workers exposed to fibreglass insulation similar to NIOSH safe levels. The Health and Safety Partnership Program (HSPP) has established a voluntary PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit) for fibreglass exposure, makes comprehensive work-site recommendations for the proper and safe handling of insulation materials, and organises ducation and training programs for workers. OSHA classifies glass-wool fibre as a “Particulate Not Otherwise Regulated,’ with a workplace permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 5.0 mg/m3 for respirable dust and 15.0 mg/m3 for total dust. US EPA regulates particulate emissions from glass-wool insulation manufacturing plants under the Clean Air Act (CAA] . Medical Examinations NIOSH recommends the same medical testing for workers exposed to fibreglass as it does for asbestos: yearly physical examinations which include lung function tests (pulmonary function], chest x-rays, and medical histories. Subsequent annual examinations should give attention to the skin condition. The examinations should be given to anyone exposed at half the limit (REL). Control Measures As with any other potentially dangerous air contaminant controlling the dust, its source should be the first line of defense. Possible controls are: Process design changes such as substitute materials and regular cleaning; Engineering controls such as enclosures and exhaust ventilation; Work practices such as vacuum cleaning with HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration. Special precautionary measures need to be taken to ensure comfort and health of all that come into contact with fibreglass. Special clothing that prevents contact of fibreglass dust with the skin should be used while dealing with fibre class. Respirators are the last resorts and temporary measures. Dust collection system should be used whenever fibreglass exposure may exceed either established particulate standards or recommended fibre standards. If fibreglass particles accumulate on exposed skin areas, do not rub or scratch. Remove the material by washing the skin thoroughly but gently with warm water and mild soap. Fibreglass is and will continue to be one of the most useful construction materials available. Its strength and insulating properties and its durability under adverse circumstances make it the one choice for insulation in many cases. Following the above stated recommendations for handling and control of fibreglass products will help to minimize the danger and discomfort people are exposed to in using fibreglass products.
Read MoreFIRE’S OUT… BUT HOW DO I DEAL WITH THE DAMAGE OF A HOME FIRE?
The damage caused by the fire continues even after the fire is fully contained. Smoke residue and water from fire hoses, or even humidity, can significantly harm your belongings. Knowing what to do is very important right from the start to minimize the loss due to fire. Prompt action can lower overall cost, as well as save valuable possessions that might otherwise be lost. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), a non-profit certification body, who sets and promotes high standards and ethics to advance communication and technical proficiency within the inspection, cleaning and restoration service industry list the following tips. Contact your insurance company immediately. It is your responsibility to begin loss mitigation, including steps to prevent the damage from getting worse. Take inventory of damaged goods before discarding anything and save receipts for money spent relating to fire loss. Avoid falling structural components. Although fire authorities may allow you to enter the house, the area still could be hazardous. Look for structural damage that will need repair, like charred beams and sagging ceilings. Stay away from electrical shock hazards. Check for exposed wiring. Also, be careful of damage inside walls and electrical lines not normally visible. Keep people with allergies out of the home. People with severe allergies or respiratory problems should stay out of the area until initial cleanup is complete. Weather permitting ventilate the home to remove soot residues. Wipe down durable surfaces. Smoke residues combine with humidity to form acids that can stain grout, paint, bath fixtures, kitchen counter tops and may appliances. Immediate clean up of durable surfaces with household cleaners can dramatically limit your loss. Call a professional. Hire IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified professional to provide advice and repair damage to your home after a fire. Fire restoration experts can help you get your home and furnishings back to a “pre-loss” condition. In many cases, attempting the clean-up process you will only make matters worse. IICRC-certified technicians have the experience, training and knowledge to assess the damage and restore your belongings.
Read MoreWATER HYGIENE
In summer when the heat impedes or in winter when the cold hinders, WATER hot or cold is certainly a first relief. We turn on a tap and out it pours. Water is an essential aspect of our every day life. From the time we wake up in the morning until we go to bed in the night, we depend on water for several uses. Unfortunately the conditions in which it is stored and distributed are often far from ideal. Water is generally stored in overhead or underground tanks; it is rather a case of “out of sight out of mind situation”. Very few people observe the condition of their water storage tanks and distribution pipelines. With an aim to promote awareness of the importance of protecting and managing fresh water, the United Nations has marked the year 2003 as the International Year of Fresh Water. In summer when the heat impedes or in winter when the cold hinders, WATER hot or cold is certainly a first relief. We turn on a tap and out it pours. Water is an essential aspect of our every day life. From the time we wake up in the morning until we go to bed in the night, we depend on water for several uses. Unfortunately the conditions in which it is stored and distributed are often far from ideal. Water is generally stored in overhead or underground tanks; it is rather a case of “out of sight out of mind situation”. Very few people observe the condition of their water storage tanks and distribution pipelines. With an aim to promote awareness of the importance of protecting and managing fresh water, the United Nations has marked the year 2003 as the International Year of Fresh Water. Most of us who live in the cities and have access to running water all the time at our convenience naturally tend to ignore the hygiene and health aspect of water. “Why should I be too concerned about water hygiene? I only drink bottled water.” That could be the typical reaction of a Dubai resident. But is it right? Is our use of water limited to just drinking? Don’t we take a shower? Do we not wash our face and mouth? Do we not dive into the pool? No matter what we use water for, water storage systems need to be cared and maintained to prevent contamination of water and the resulting health hazards. The water we receive from the different municipality outlet is indeed of high quality, however when it reaches the unclean storage tanks its purity may perish. Very few people clean their water tanks regularly and there is evidence to show that the tanks not cleaned for 2-3 years are huge breeding grounds for harmful microbes and organisms. Extremely high levels of bacteria can build up in water tanks in the summer heat as protective chlorine breaks down. There are many types of bacteria, which are harmful such as salmonella (spread by bird droppings) that find their way into the tanks and Legionella, which has more than 39 different strains and cause disease and infection, which can at times be fatal. Legionella bacteria grow in water where general dirt sediment and other bacteria exist. Such conditions provide a favourable medium for the reproduction of Legionella. Infection can only be spread by creating a fine mist of water vapour typical of cooling towers, sprinkler systems and showers, which enters the lungs by inhalation. The bacteria then embed itself deep in the lungs and the infection spreads rapidly. The death rate for Legionnaire is quoted at 12%. Usually chlorine is introduced into our water system by the municipalities to maintain a bacteria free water supply. However, there are several points that need to be discussed when using chlorine. Firstly, chlorine will dissipate very quickly especially when it comes into contact with any organic material including sludge and sediment at the bottom of your water tanks. Chlorine (bleach) used for the purpose of disinfection is dangerous. As a result many beneficial bacteria are killed when chlorine is poured down our drains. In addition it does not kill all forms of Legionella. Most establishment that are environmentally aware, do not use chlorine for such purposes. The use of environmentally safe chemicals for tank cleaning is mandatory in many countries. A more suitable cleaning agent for disinfecting tanks and pipes, is hydrogen peroxide which reverts to oxygen and water in a very short time after disinfecting has taken place. It is both effective and environmentally safe, The quantity of stored water should not exceed that amount required for 24 hours and ideally only 12 hours. Stagnant water facilitate growth of bacteria. Regular cleaning of water tanks should be done at least every 6 months. When you want your tanks and water system cleaned and disinfected ask the cleaning company by what methods they will carry out the work and what standards they follow. Ask them about HS (G) 70 guidelines for prevention of Legionella
Read MoreDISASTER COMES IN THREES
Fire and smoke damage costs millions of dollars a year to property and loss of business during restoration. 80% of companies that undergo a major fire never actually recover (National Audit Office) They say disasters comes in threes You lose equipment and stock You lose the means to produce and do business You lose customers – often permanently Getting the business up and running again is the prime concern. This will require specialist cleaning of carpets, furniture, walls, A/C systems, electronics cleaning and data retrieval. Checklist after a Fire or Water damage Never switch on equipment even to test Switch off equipment, disconnect any back up batteries Allow smoke to escape by opening windows or vents Place smaller equipment in a clean dry room Remove excess water by vacuuming Call the Professionals Install dehumidifiers or fans One of the most important things is speed because smoke residues and water continue to damage equipment and property often irreversibly. This is primarily due to the acidic level of smoke residues, cleaning should commence within 48 hours to be successful with restoring the contaminated goods back to the original condition. While decisions are being made the emergency cleanup plan needs to be put into ACTION to minimise damage. Imagine you work in an office with extensive electronic equipment and sophisticated computers and your office is the regional headquarters All your branches rely on your computer servers to save files and have all business transactions logged. When you get a phone call in the middle of the night from the security services saying your building is on fire, the good news is that it was not your office but all the smoke has entered into your offices through air condition ducting. The next day when you get into your office you see total devastation, you can hardly breathe, there is no power, the smoke is like a thick fog and you look at the quotations and tenders on your desk that have closing dates just a few days away. The first step of remediation is to reduce the odour level and clean sensitive items like computers, Fax, Printers and other electronic equipment. Failure to carry out cleaning as quickly as possible will result in permanent damage and system failures, especially computers. It is then possible to start with general cleanup. Everything in the home is made of different materials, oriental carpets, works of art, metal items, crystal glass, wooden furniture, upholstery, leather, A/C systems, walls, ceilings, marble floors, clothing and many more. Each of them must be individually dealt with to bring them back to pre-incident condition. Clothes cannot simply be sent to the laundry, as some items will lock in the smoke odour. Deodorization has to be done before cleaning. Metal items will tarnish due to the acidic nature of the smoke, and needs to be cleaned quickly like chrome bath taps etc. The A/C system has to be cleaned and deodorised by qualified and certified staff using the correct equipment. Regular cleaning materials are not at all designed to deal with the complex problems of smoke, odour and bacteria. Call the Professionals, get free advice, immediate action and a fair and a realistic estimate to get you back in business. Don’t be a statistic and end up going out of business caused by delaying urgently required and immediate action.
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