Mold is an invisible enemy in your HVAC duct system. If you’d actually see a lot of mold flying around your room, then the problem would have grown beyond serious. In most case, people aren’t exactly aware that their HVAC duct system has been compromised by mold colonies.
What causes mold infestation in the first place?
HVAC ducts may provide a very welcoming environment for the mold colonies. When the air outside contains a lot of water vapor, the water ends up creating droplets inside the ducts instead of just evaporating. The mold starts to grow as the ducts contain water, dust, dead skin cells, and even pollen.
On top of that, it’s nice and warm inside the duct system. As the months pass, the mold grows in these favorable conditions. Finally, you could see the colonies with the naked eye because they have grown so much.
In this article by Markham Services, Central Florida mold testing and inspection experts, we’ll take a closer look at some of the possible signs the system might be housing unwanted guests.
1. Smell
While you may not see the mold spores flying around, you could definitely smell them if the concentration has become high enough. The accompanying smell is usually musty and present at least in a few rooms if not in the whole house.
2. Allergies
Are your allergies acting up? Rashes, teary eyes, and a leaking nose are typical symptoms when experiencing an allergic reaction to something. If you are having an allergy while there’s a mildew-like smell in your home, then it’s time to investigate your house and the HVAC duct system.
3. Irritation
One of the giveaways of an HVAC mold infestation is when your eyes and nose getting irritated when the air conditioning is turned on. As the AC starts to work, all of the mold particles start flying around the house. It’s no wonder your body starts to react badly.
4. Certain medical complaints
There are many medical complaints that might be mold-related. For example, feeling dizzy, chronic fatigue, and nausea are all connected to mold infestation. But how to know for sure? If you feel these symptoms only while spending time inside the house, then it’s quite likely that it’s because of the mold.
Are There Any Visual Signs?
The particle concentration of mold should be huge in order for you to see the mold flying around with your naked eye. Still, there are some visual signs that help you identify a mold problem inside the home.
When there’s enough mold in the HVAC ducts, you might see some spreading around the opening. You should keep a look out for small spots that can range from black and white to green and brown. There might be slime as well.
How would you know that it’s not just some dirt? The trick is to spray a tiny amount of bleach on the suspicious area. A fading or vanishing color exposes mold. Remember that you should act before the clear visual signs start to emerge on the surfaces.
How To Get Rid Of This Mold?
When you have mold growing inside the HVAC duct system, then the particular strategy depends on the extent. Usually, it’s recommended to contact a professional mold removal service. They will have all the necessary skills and tools to effectively remove the colony.
Easier cases can be handled with a DIY approach. Mix baking soda, household detergent, and water to create an effective solution. Just using water might only make the situation worse. If you don’t want to use homemade mixes, then find commercial mold removal agents. When you have the removal solution and wear all the possible safety gear (gloves, goggles, and mask), then turn off the vents.
Scrub the moldy areas and repeat until the ducts are clear. Throw away the used brushes or rags in airtight bags. After finishing, cover the areas with mold growth inhibitors. No effective inhibitors can be made at home, which means you should find commercial products sold in your area.
What Are The Signs Of Mold In Your HVAC Duct System?
Allergies acting up, experiencing eye and nose irritation, or having certain medical complaints only inside your home are all possible signs of a mold infestation. When bad smell and strange spots around the HVAC duct openings accompany these symptoms, then it’s definitely time to seriously investigate the matter.
You can call for professional help or use DIY methods in easier cases. One thing is for certain, mold in your HVAC duct system shouldn’t be ignored for you and your family’s safety.
Author Bio:
Luigi Ferraro
Specializing in residential and commercial HVAC services, Air Tech offers a wide range of solutions to meet the heating and cooling needs of their customers. Their team of skilled technicians is trained to handle the installation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC systems with expertise and precision.
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