Investigations of A Black Soot Phenomenon in Florida Residential Structures Associated with New Installation of Central Heating and Air Conditioning Systems

摘要

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) investigations conducted by the Florida Department of Health, Indoor Air Quality Program, in response to complaints from occupants have characterized deposition of tiny solid black particles in Florida residential structures. Occurrence of this black soot deposition was first reported in 1994 in both single family homes and attached housing. To date 42 residential structures have reported this phenomenon in Florida, with infrequent reports received from other states. Extensive data have been collected on 29 homes through a survey and evaluations have been completed on 16 homes to characterized contributing factors. Occurrence of soot deposition is associated with installation of new central hating and air conditioning (HAC) systems and the moderate use of candles.