Share:

Mold loves to grow anywhere with excess moisture. Unfortunately, this can make your HVAC system an ideal environment, especially when it comes to the ductwork and air conditioning. If left unchecked, mold creates more than just a musty odor; the spores are also a dangerous irritant that can cause health problems like congestion, fever, coughing, and wheezing. To learn how to find and eradicate mold in your HVAC, consider the following guide.

How to Determine There’s Mold

The first sign of mold is typically a smell. The telltale strong mildew odor indicates the presence of moisture and mold growing within it. If the smell seems to happen randomly, turn off your system and wait 15 to 20 minutes. If the smell dissipates, it may have been from air passing through moldy ductwork. 

HVAC systemIf you know where to look, you may be able to find evidence. Check the registers, vents, coils, and drip pans of your furnace and AC unit, as any of these can harbor mold. 

Lastly, pay attention to any symptoms affecting you or your loved ones. If you experience headaches, nausea, dizziness, or fatigue while only spending time at home or have recurring allergy symptoms with no discernable source, you could be reacting to mold spores in the air. 

How to Mitigate the Issue 

If you find the mold in a timely fashion, you may be able to remove it yourself. The EPA recommends calling a professional service if the mold has spread over 10 square feet. Use an EPA-approved removal product and sufficient personal protection while applying the chemicals, and only do so with the HVAC system turned off. 

If there’s extensive mold in your HVAC equipment or ductwork, call a professional to ensure the problem doesn’t come back. After they’ve cleaned and restored your system, there are several preventive measures you can perform to keep the system clean. First, replace your air filter at least once per season. Next, reduce condensation in your ducts by insulating them and scheduling an annual ductwork check. Empty your drip pans often to avoid encouraging future growth. Lastly, invest in a quality dehumidifier to better regulate air quality during the summer.

 

If you’ve noticed a musty smell around the house, it’s time to call a professional. Since 1966, A & B Heating & Air Conditioning has served homes and businesses throughout Cincinnati, OH, northern Kentucky, and southeast Indiana with top-notch heating and cooling solutions. Their fully licensed team will ensure your HVAC system works through the heat of summer and chill of winter. To schedule an appointment, call (859) 525-0100 or check out their website to learn more about their services. 

tracking