Mold can be incredibly problematic for homeowners. It creates many hazards and can do substantial damage, but tends to grow out of sight. Growing in dark, damp places, including air ducts, mold thrives in areas with lower temperatures. Your air conditioning system is a perfect example. No matter what type of ductwork installation you have, getting rid of mold from ducts is critical.
Mold Can Be Toxic
Various health effects can occur from breathing in mold spores and substances they can produce. Once these circulate in your home, you can experience symptoms like sneezing, sinus congestion, coughing, itchy eyes, headaches, and breathing problems. Severe symptoms can include gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, and worsening pre-existing respiratory issues. The symptoms are often unexplainable and disappear when you leave a certain room or go outside.
There Are Many Types of Mold
Numerous mold species can grow in your home. Acremonium, a toxic mold, appears white and powdery. Aspergillus can appear green, white, or yellow, while Chaetomium is brown and cotton-like; while it often grows on walls, it can be seen in air ducts and vents. Other molds found in ducts and vents can include Fusarium, Stachybotrys (highly toxic), Mucor, and Trichoderma.
Mold Is Often Extremely Smelly
The musty odor can permeate your entire home. However, if mold is growing in your air ducts, the smell tends to be stronger near air vents. The odor may also be present in only one room. If left unchecked, the mold can spread throughout your HVAC system and lead to even bigger problems.
Mold Is Not a Pretty Sight
Mold can take on a wide range of appearances. It’s often seen in patches of green, black, or white. Depending on the type of mold, it may look fuzzy or velvety but can be completely smooth. Some may appear dry while others may seem shiny and damp. A mold colony may be round or it can take on an irregular shape and grow to any size.
Mold Feeds On Common Nutrients in Your Home
Since mold spores feed on dust, pollen, animal dander, general dirt, and even dead skin cells, all of which are common in homes, there’s plenty for it to consume. Cold air passing through ducts can cause water vapor to form. When water droplets collect, this adds fuel to the fire so mold has no problem growing even soon after ductwork installation.
Mold Can Damage Your Air Conditioning System
If it spreads throughout your ducts and into major AC components, mold can reduce the performance of your air conditioner. It can reduce comfort and system efficiency too, increasing energy costs. The more damage it does, the more likely you’ll need repairs or have to replace the system sooner.
How Can I Get Rid of Mold in Air Ducts?
Removing mold as quickly as possible can avoid long-term issues. Mold testing can determine if it is present and what kind it is. While there are home remedies to removing mold, it’s best to turn off your AC and heating/cooling vents and hire a mold remediation professional. Various professional tools and equipment effectively eliminate mold from ducts.
Preventative solutions include rinsing duct surfaces, using EPA-registered mold growth inhibitors, installing UV light and ionization air purifiers, and regular AC maintenance that includes fixing leaks, addressing drainage issues, and sealing and insulating ducts.
Contact Sky Heating & Air Conditioning for Help
Our team of licensed AC contractors provides all types of ductwork services. From professional ductwork installation to duct sealing and repair, we can ensure your duct system performs well and is free of efficiency and even mold issues. If you do suspect mold in your air ducts, schedule an appointment online or call 503-673-9083 now.