A natural byproduct of excessive moisture and poor ventilation, mold is something that can develop in any environment. If it ends up in an HVAC system, it can lead to a variety of health problems like itchy eyes, headaches, and various respiratory issues. Children, seniors, and anyone with asthma are particularly vulnerable to mold. It can also interfere with your heater and air conditioner’s functionality. If you’re wondering why mold shows up in air conditioners and how to prevent it, here’s what you need to know.

HVAC Systems & Mold Growth

Inefficiency

Mold tends to show up in inefficient HVAC systems with poor airflow. If you’ve had trouble maintaining the temperature settings, experienced higher utility costs without increasing your usage, or noticed a series of problems in quick succession, your system isn’t as efficient as it should be. These problems could be tied to a clogged air filter, dirty vents, or a leak in the ductwork; all of these create environments that trap moisture.

Weather

Mold growth is more likely during transitional seasons, such as spring. During this time, the temperature fluctuations are more dramatic, so condensation builds up more quickly. If there’s adequate airflow, it should dry up, but if there isn't and things stay moist, you may need to be a bit more vigilant during the season.

Detection

In addition to the health issues mentioned earlier, the first sign of mold in your HVAC system is a musty, mildewy odor. Try to track the smell; if it leads you anywhere near the ductwork or the units, you’ll have your answer. You may also notice spores or black dust on the vents, as well as mold growing in the drip pan.

Solutions

Assuming moisture issues aren’t caused by something like a roof leak or plumbing problem, keeping your ductwork and HVAC units clean is the best way to prevent mold growth. This includes replacing the air filters regularly as well as wiping down and vacuuming the vent covers as soon as you notice any dust buildup. If you’ve kept on top of maintenance but are still having problems, invest in a replacement with more modern filtration methods.

If your HVAC system has been underperforming lately and you’re worried about possible mold growth, contact Systematic Control Corp. for an upgrade. For more than 50 years, they’ve served residential and commercial customers throughout the Great Neck, NY area. They currently have a fantastic rebate offer of up to $500 off the installation of eligible Mitsubishi Electric® HVAC systems. These state-of-the-art, ductless, multi-zone systems can be installed quickly with minimal drilling in the walls. If you have any questions, call (516) 482-1374 today. It’s only running until June 7, 2019, so don’t hesitate to inquire! Don’t need an upgrade? They also offer repairs and maintenance! For a full list of their services, visit their website.