It can be tough to get through the summer without a properly operating air conditioning system. Our energy quickly dwindles in a hot and humid atmosphere, stopping us from working effectively. With effective HVAC systems, we can take advantage of this great season and get busy!
However, high humidity during the hot summer might harm your HVAC system. A hot and humid climate can exacerbate mold growth in air ducts. As a result, you must begin taking safeguards before you get afflicted.
This article will run you through everything you need to know about mold in your air ducts.
The Causes of Mold in Air Ducts
Mold may develop and settle in your air ducts if the climate is conducive to its growth. Your HVAC system can readily disseminate it throughout your entire home or building.
Because of all the dehumidification, the components of an HVAC unit hold moisture, which can lead to mold growth in air ducts. If the humidity levels inside the vents aren’t controlled, mold may readily develop. Mold thrives in ducts because they gather dust, dander, pollen, dead skin cells, and other contaminants, serving as food sources.
Mold might grow in your home if you have an enormous air conditioner. A unit that is too big for the space won’t be able to dehumidify the air for very long. As a result, there is enough moisture on the metal surface of the ducts for mold to form.
Also, any leaks in your roof or attic might cause your AC ducts to become moist, allowing mold to grow. Furthermore, inadequate bathroom ventilation allows steam to infiltrate your rooms and eventually into the air ducts, producing an ideal habitat for mold development.
Indication of Mold Growth in Air Ducts
Sending a sample to a lab for testing or examining it with a mold testing kit are the only ways to confirm the presence of mold in air ducts.
However, if you’re wondering how to identify mold on your own, there are a few things to check for that are early markers of mold in AC ducts.
- A Musty Odor When You Turn the Unit On: This may be the first sign you notice. Turning on your air conditioner should give out a musty smell reminiscent of mildew. The foul stench might spread throughout your home since the air travels via ducts.
- Seeing the Mold on Your Vents, Ducts, and Drip Pans: Intake vents, ducts, and drip pans should be checked regularly because they create the ideal habitat for mold growth.
Mold spreads through the air through spores, small particles that are invisible to the human eye. So, if you notice any visible evidence of mold, it means you have a significant infestation that must be addressed immediately.
- The Presence of Black Dust around Your Vents: Mold in the ductwork is indicated by the presence of black dust surrounding air conditioner vents. This dust is exceedingly hazardous and difficult to clean up. Mold spores, as well as conditioned air, may circulate into your rooms as a result.
- Having Allergy-like Symptoms: Mold spores can cause health problems in anyone exposed to them. You may get headaches, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, coughing, sneezing, and skin irritation if your breathing air is infested with mold.
Conclusion
The presence of mold in air ducts could be dangerous to your health, so you must take measures to prevent it. Mold may potentially cause respiratory and other illnesses. If you suspect mold in your AC ducts, you need to contact a professional immediately. The sooner you get an HVAC decontamination, the better.
Do you have indications of mold in your household? You can get mold testing in Orange County through Environmental Mold LLC. We are a mold and indoor air quality consulting firm specializing in mold removal and remediation. Give us a call today to learn more!