Chute Cleaning is very important. If neglected, chutes can be hazardous.
Indoor air quality affects those who live and work in airtight buildings. Cleaning trash chutes frequently will improve the air quality and reduce odor by removing the mold, bacteria and other items lingering inside the chute after trash disposal.
Hazards of Dirty Chutes if neglected
Garbage chutes can also create serious problems for the building, such as grease fires, an out-of-control pest population, rancid food odors and excessive wear and tear on the compactor and chute. Still, some buildings may experience only an occasional rodent or a foul odor near the chutes.
How often should Trash Chutes be cleaned?
Trash chutes should be cleaned at least once or twice a year; depending on how often residents use the trash chute. Garbage chute cleaning should be considered routine preventive maintenance. Chutes in high-rise buildings are especially difficult to clean effectively.
Why Clean a Trash Chute?
Disturbing smells are not only unpleasant, they also can be dangerous. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, poor indoor air quality can cause short-term problems such as irritation of the eyes, nose and throat; headaches; dizziness and fatigue. Long-term health problems can develop after years of exposure to harmful air pollutants. Cleaning trash chutes is a form of source air pollutant control. By eliminating the source of bacteria, which causes the foul odor, you also eliminate a significant source of air pollution.