We recently worked with a large car showroom in Brisbane that was experiencing HVAC inefficiencies, cooling issues, and high energy bills. The client requested an Aeroseal duct sealing service, but before proceeding, we deployed Multibot for a thorough inspection.
During the inspection, we discovered a section of ductwork that had become uncoupled from its connecting section, causing significant air leakage. While Aeroseal technology is effective for sealing gaps up to 15mm, this detached section far exceeded that limit. Without identifying the exact issue, the problem would have remained unresolved.
This is just one example of how Multibot gives us a critical edge in diagnosing HVAC inefficiencies quickly and accurately.
What’s Multibot?
Multibot is a specialist multifunctional HVAC Hygiene Robot that is remote controlled, enabling the inspection, disinfection, cleaning, coating/sealing of ductwork.
ⓘ The Multibot is a versatile air duct cleaning robot that enables us to perform multiple applications by coupling different modules for cleaning, inspection, and coating inside air ducts. Equipped with the latest technologies—including Full HD cameras, an automatic module elevation system, an HMI touch screen control panel, and an HD recording system—it allows us to conduct inspections with precision and efficiency. Image credit: TEINNOVA / teinnovacleaning.com
"We designed Multibot to navigate complex duct systems with precision, performing advanced cleaning, inspection, disinfection, and sealing. Companies that use it equip themselves with cutting-edge technology that sets them apart in the industry."
Armando Sáenz, CEO Teinnova
Why are AS 3666 HVAC Inspections Important?
Carrying out regular inspections of HVAC equipment, including AHU, Coils, Fans, Drain Pans and Ducting is an important factor in the AS 3666 standard for the following reasons:
- Public Health: By controlling microbial growth, AS/NZS 3666 helps protect the health of building occupants and prevents the spread of diseases associated with contaminated HVAC systems.
- Indoor Air Quality: Regular maintenance and cleaning, as outlined in AS/NZS 3666, contribute to maintaining good indoor air quality, which is crucial for comfort and productivity.
- Legal Compliance and Insurance Considerations: Compliance with AS/NZS 3666 is essential for meeting legal requirements and building codes related to HVAC systems. Insurers may require compliance with AS/NZS 3666 as part of their risk assessment for building policies.
Ensuring compliance with AS/NZS 3666 requires regular, thorough inspections, but traditional methods can be time-consuming, invasive, and sometimes impractical in hard-to-reach areas. This is where Multibot transforms the process—providing a faster, more accurate, and less disruptive way to inspect HVAC systems.
How does Multibot make inspections easier?
With Multibot, fewer access points need to be cut into the ductwork, as it can travel over 20 meters through multiple sections with ease. This makes Multibot particularly useful in areas with solid ceiling finishes or otherwise hard-to-access ductwork, where traditional inspections might require removing finish materials.
Multibot is equipped with two Full HD inspection cameras that capture 360-degree footage, providing clear, detailed documentation of the ductwork and mechanical components.
The recordings can be retained for future reference, documenting the internal components, layout, and condition of the ductwork. This enables precise issue identification, saving both time and cost.
See a Multibot HVAC Inspection in Action, watch real inspection footage here
"Multibot has become an essential tool for clean-air, expediting hygiene inspections, pinpointing issues, and helping teams implement solutions faster and more efficiently"
Muni Kumar, INDOOR AIR QUALITY EXPERT AT CLEAN-AIR
Comparison of HVAC Duct Inspection Methods
Traditional HVAC duct inspection methods—such as borescopes, handheld cameras, and direct visual inspections—have significant limitations in reach, consistency, and efficiency. The table below highlights how Multibot overcomes these challenges.
Multibot is a remote-controlled robotic inspection system equipped with Full HD front and rear cameras, 360-degree rotation, and tracked mobility—providing significant advantages over traditional methods.
Benefits of Multibot vs. Traditional Inspection:
Factor | Traditional Methods (Borescope, Handheld Camera, Naked Eye) | Multibot (Robotic Inspection) |
Coverage & Reach | Limited to inspector’s reach, requires multiple access points | Covers long duct sections remotely, reducing access limitations |
Manoeuvrability | Restricted by duct size and obstacles | Tracks allow smooth movement and full 360° rotation |
Field of View | Narrow (borescope) or obstructed (handheld) | Dual Full HD cameras provide comprehensive front and rear visibility |
Image Quality | Dependent on lighting and stability | High-resolution recording with consistent lighting and steady footage |
Time Efficiency | Manual positioning is slow and requires multiple adjustments | Faster, automated navigation reduces inspection time |
Safety & Accessibility | Requires personnel to enter confined spaces or climb to access ducts | Fully remote, reducing physical risk to inspectors |
Documentation & Review | Limited to real-time observation or low-quality photos | Full HD recorded footage for detailed analysis and reporting |
Conclusion
The Multibot robotic inspection system enhances HVAC duct inspections by providing superior reach, maneuverability, and documentation while improving safety, efficiency, and accuracy compared to traditional methods. It eliminates the need for physical access to confined spaces, ensuring a more comprehensive and reliable inspection process.
Contact us today to discover how Multibot can make your HVAC inspections faster, safer, and more efficient.
References
AS/NZS 3666 https://www.saiglobal.com/PDFTemp/Previews/OSH/as/as3000/3600/N36661.pdf Teinnova Multibot https://teinnovacleaning.com/equipment/multibot-air-duct-cleaning-robot/