Mold Growth in Your HVAC System

Heating, ventilating, and air conditioning units or HVAC have evolved to meet a variety of needs in American households. There is an extensive variety of these systems including zoned systems, heating systems, humidity control and cooling systems. HVAC systems are located in warm locations with high water vapor content; a combination that is ideal for mold growth. Nutrients for mold typically come from dust, dirt, pollen, animal dander and dead skin cells - all of which collect over time. It is important to ensure that your house has the cleanest air available and is mold free - remember, indoor air quality is the key to a healthy life!

Here are some signs to look for that indicate your home may have a mold issue: 

• A strong mildew or musty smell throughout the house or in adjacent rooms.
• Your nose, throat, and eyes feel irritated when switching on the air conditioning or entering an air conditioned room. 
• Experiencing allergy symptoms including runny nose, rashes and watery eyes, nausea.
• You or family members experience unexplainable headaches that go away when you leave the home.
• There is visible mold growth on the air intake vents and around the air ducts and drip pans. 

Here are steps to take to prevent mold growth in your home: 

• Replace HVAC system filters regularly
• Reduce condensation within the air ducts with insulation
• Clean the drip pans regularly 
• Seal leaks and condensation drips 
• Invest in a good dehumidifier and position it near the moldy areas
• Check the ducts regularly. If needed, get professional assistance to check the HVAC system at regular intervals.
  

Finally, there are several DIY solutions to mold removal, however because mold spreads through spores, complete removal can be difficult without professional help. Feel free to contact our Airtegrity team at (210) 446-0105 for a FREE inspection on your AC system!