Mold in Your HVAC System

Any space containing high moisture levels is at risk for mold growth. Most molds require a warm and wet environment to thrive, and air conditioners are a common place for moisture and debris to accumulate. Regardless of whether it’s grown on the outside of your vent or inside your ductwork, mold in your HVAC system can be dangerous and should be handled as quickly and effectively as possible.

How to Prevent Mold in Your HVAC System

Replace Air Filters Regularly

It is recommended to replace the air filters in your home every three months. Using clean filters will help reduce pollutants in the air that could lead to unwanted mold growth within your system.

Insulate Air Ducts

Insulating your air ducts can cut down on the amount of condensation produced within your system. Excess condensation can become sitting water that provides the ideal environment for mold and bacteria to thrive.

Run a Dehumidifier

When condensation does occur, if the humidity inside your home is maintained at a low level, that condensation will evaporate into the air rather than collect inside your system. Dehumidifiers come in all shapes and sizes, so you can be sure to find one that best fits your home’s needs.

Identifying Mold In Your System

Musty Smell

If you notice that your home has begun to smell old and unpleasant, this could be a telltale sign of mold growth in your HVAC system. Most common molds have a distinct musty smell that can spread throughout your home. You may begin to notice the smell gets stronger when your AC system is running, and if that’s the case, it is likely that the mold has spread to your air ducts.

Black Residue

The mold you might find on your AC system looks very similar to the mold you might find in other areas of your home such as a shower or basement. If you notice patchy black residue that does not wipe off easily, it is likely mold and will require proper cleaning to be permanently removed.

Recurring Respiratory Symptoms

The effect mold can have on your health is what makes it such a concern for homeowners. It can lead to anything from mild irritation to serious respiratory infections in children and adults. If you’ve noticed you or your family has been experiencing respiratory symptoms such as coughing or wheezing, the possibility of mold in your home is something to consider.

Addressing Mold In Your System

• Turn off your HVAC system.
• Use rags to remove visible signs of moisture.
• Clean mold-infested area with a mold or mildew product safe for use in AC systems.
• Make sure the area is completely dry.
• Install mold-reducing filters to prevent future growth.

Contact a Specialist

For more severe cases of mold infestation in your AC system, you may need to contact your HVAC specialist. An expert will be able to clean your AC as thoroughly as possible in order to eradicate any mold from your system.

Contact Bertie Heating & Air Conditioning

Mold can be a serious but easily handled issue within your home. The most important thing is to remember that it is preventable. Regular HVAC maintenance and monitoring humidity levels inside your home is the best way to prevent mold growth in your system. For more information about dealing with mold in your HVAC system or to schedule a service appointment, call our experts today at Bertie Heating & Air Conditioning.