Route 22 Construction: Protecting Your HVAC from Dust Damage
The massive Route 22 improvement project is kicking up clouds of concrete dust and debris. Here's how Union residents and businesses can protect their HVAC systems during construction.
Construction Alert - July 2025
Active demolition and paving on Route 22 between Springfield and Hillside is creating hazardous dust levels. Properties along Morris Avenue, Galloping Hill Road, and Salem Road are most affected.
The Hidden Threat to Union's HVAC Systems
If you live or work near Route 22 in Union Township, you've seen the dust clouds. What started as a much-needed highway improvement project has become a daily battle against construction debris for thousands of residents and businesses. The concrete dust, diesel exhaust, and pulverized asphalt aren't just coating your car—they're infiltrating your HVAC system.
The New Jersey Department of Transportation's competitive pricing million Route 22 improvement project, running through the heart of Union, involves extensive concrete demolition, grading, and paving. While the end result will improve traffic flow and safety, the construction process is creating unprecedented air quality challenges for nearby properties.
How Construction Dust Destroys HVAC Equipment
The Contamination Chain
Union Properties at Highest Risk
Red Zone (Extreme Risk)
Within 500 feet of Route 22:
- • Morris Avenue businesses
- • Galloping Hill Road plaza
- • Salem Road offices
- • Chestnut Street residences
Check filters weekly, professional cleaning monthly
Orange Zone (High Risk)
500-1000 feet from Route 22:
- • Vauxhall neighborhood
- • Stanley Terrace area
- • Liberty Avenue homes
- • Union Plaza vicinity
Check filters bi-weekly, cleaning quarterly
Immediate Protection Measures
Emergency Action Plan for Route 22 Dust
Switch from standard MERV 8 to MERV 11 or 13 filters. They capture smaller particles but need more frequent replacement. Stock up—you'll need 3x normal supply.
Check windows, doors, and any openings. Use weatherstripping and caulk. Even small gaps let in significant dust during heavy construction days.
During peak construction hours (7 AM - 5 PM), minimize fresh air intake. Use recirculation mode when possible. Run system fan continuously to filter air.
Keep indoor pressure slightly positive to prevent infiltration. This pushes air out rather than allowing dusty air in. Professional adjustment recommended.
Professional Protection Services
Dimatic's Route 22 Construction Protection Package
Immediate Services
- Emergency coil cleaning
- High-efficiency filter installation
- Duct sealing and repair
- Fresh air damper adjustment
Ongoing Protection
- Monthly filter changes
- Quarterly duct cleaning
- Indoor air quality monitoring
- 24/7 emergency response
Special Route 22 Pricing: save significantly on protection packages through construction period
Health Impacts of Construction Dust
Why Route 22 Dust Is Particularly Dangerous
Silica Content: Concrete demolition releases crystalline silica, a known carcinogen that causes respiratory disease.
PM2.5 Particles: Ultra-fine particles penetrate deep into lungs and enter bloodstream, triggering asthma and heart issues.
Diesel Exhaust: Heavy equipment emissions contain over 40 toxic compounds, accumulating in poorly ventilated buildings.
Asphalt Fumes: When heated, releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that cause headaches, nausea, and respiratory irritation.
Protecting Your Family & Employees
Air Purification
HEPA air purifiers in bedrooms and offices. UV-C systems in HVAC kill mold spores that thrive on dusty surfaces.
Humidity Control
Maintain 40-50% humidity to prevent dust from becoming airborne. Too dry increases circulation; too humid promotes mold.
Regular Testing
Monthly air quality testing during construction. Document results for potential health claims or property damage.
Long-Term Solutions for Affected Properties
Whole-House Air Cleaners
Electronic air cleaners remove 99% of particles. Essential for properties within 1/4 mile of Route 22. Professional installation required.
Investment: competitive pricing | ROI: Immediate health benefits
Duct Replacement/Lining
For severely contaminated systems, full duct replacement or antimicrobial lining prevents ongoing contamination. Includes sealing all joints.
Investment: competitive pricing | Prevents future issues
Smart IAQ Monitoring
WiFi-enabled monitors track particles, VOCs, humidity. Get alerts when air quality drops. Creates documentation for insurance/legal claims.
Investment: competitive pricing | Essential for businesses
Documentation for Insurance & Legal Protection
Protect Your Rights During Construction
1. Pre-Construction Inspection: Document your HVAC system's condition before damage occurs. Professional inspection creates baseline.
2. Maintain Service Records: Keep all filter receipts, cleaning invoices, and repair bills. Shows construction impact.
3. Air Quality Testing: Monthly professional testing provides evidence of construction-related contamination.
4. Health Documentation: Track any respiratory issues, allergies, or health changes during construction period.
5. Communication Log: Document all complaints to NJDOT, Union Township, or contractors about dust issues.
Note: Dimatic Control provides detailed inspection reports suitable for insurance claims and legal documentation. Our reports meet industry standards for property damage assessment.
Timeline & Construction Updates
Route 22 Project Schedule (As of July 2025)
Next High-Dust Activity: Bridge demolition at Morris Avenue intersection, scheduled for August 5-12, 2025. Expect extreme dust levels.
Take Action Before It's Too Late
Every day of Route 22 construction means more contamination in your HVAC system. The microscopic particles infiltrating your home or business don't just disappear when construction ends—they continue circulating, damaging equipment and affecting health for years.
Union businesses along the Route 22 corridor are already reporting significant issues: The Garden State Plaza offices needed emergency coil replacement after just two months of construction. Multiple Vauxhall residents have experienced AC failures. Don't wait for catastrophic damage.
Emergency Route 22 Dust Protection Service
Immediate response for construction-related HVAC emergencies. Special pricing for affected Union properties.
Mention "Route 22 Protection" for priority scheduling