Mold is a health hazard that thrives on moisture and can cause respiratory problems to people in your home.  If you have an HVAC system, it’s not uncommon to find mold growing in the ducts. Here’s a closer look at how to detect it and what you can do to solve this issue.

What Are the Warning Signs?

If you spot mold in your HVAC, it’s likely circulating throughout your home every time you use the system. You can tell there’s fungal growth somewhere in the ductwork by noticing these red flags:  

Musty Odors

Mold gives off an unmistakable odor; the nearer you are to the source, the stronger it gets. Pay attention to musty or pungent smells coming from vents and grates as this is a sign of their thriving colony.

Allergic Symptoms

If your nose or throat feels irritated or you have headaches or nausea, it may be due to airborne mold spores circulated by your HVAC.

Visual Cues 

Mold can be a blue, green, or yellow fuzzy matter that shows up near vents, drip pans, or standing water in the air ducts.

How to Fix the Issue

Mold remediation is best left to the professionals since it requires a thorough process of cleanup and removal. Doing so prevents the fungi from coming back. There are also a few things you can do to prevent this issue.

• Change Filters Frequently: Your HVAC comes with an air filter that traps pollutants, including mold spores. It’s important to change it every three months or sooner, but make sure to always use quality filters.

• Invest in a Dehumidifier: Excess moisture in the air can cause water to linger in ductworks, jumpstarting mold growth. With a dehumidifier, it reduces humidity to keep conditioned air dry.   

• Seal and Insulate: Stop condensation from creeping in the air ducts by sealing and insulating them properly.

• Schedule Regular Inspections: Annual check-ins on your HVAC keep issues like mold at bay, so have a licensed inspector assess the system regularly. Molds can be persistent and return under the right conditions.  

At the first signs of mold in your HVAC, let the professionals at Muotka Mechanical handle the situation. Proudly serving the community in Anchorage, AK, they provide a range of residential and commercial HVAC services, including heating installation, repairs, and maintenance. Call (907) 344-8825 to request an estimate today or visit them online.