Since their inception as a way to efficiently heat and cool buildings, HVAC systems have advanced a lot. There are many types and sizes of HVAC units that provide comfortable living for people all over the world. These systems can be sabotaged if there are mold colonies in the ductwork. Mold spores can cause poor air quality and unpleasant odors by contaminating the intake and return air.
Mold in HVAC ductwork is a problem that can be difficult to solve. This post will show how to remove mold from HVAC ducts.
How to Identify Mold in Air Conditioner Ducts
Mold growth can be detected by the smell. Mold growth can produce a musty smell that many people compare to the smell of a dog wet. You may smell mold growth in one or more rooms. You may notice mold growth in your air vents as the colony expands. This could be visible as black, green or brown spots appearing in the area where the ductwork connects. Unless you have special equipment, you won’t be able to see individual mold spores. It can take some time before you notice the signs. The smell can often start long before you notice the damage. If you can’t identify the mold in your AC ducts, contact a mold remediation company like 911 Restoration of Fayetteville here.
Understanding the Causes of Mold in Air Conditioning
Mold can grow almost anywhere. However, air conditioning ductwork creates a warm and dark environment for mold growth. Mold needs oxygen and moisture to thrive. It also feeds on organic matter, debris, and other materials. All of these components are found in ductwork. When cold air passes through ductwork passages that are warmer, it creates water vapor. Instead of vaporizing and dissipating outside the vapor forms water droplets which coat the interior of the conduit system. This is the ideal place for mold to grow. Mold can grow endlessly from the dust, pollen and cells that circulate through the air.
Signs that Mold is in Your HVAC System
Every home may show one or more signs of mold. You will need to first detect mold in an HVAC system by your senses of smell. These are some of the most common signs that mold growth is occurring in a home.
- Strong musty odor in one or more rooms
- When the HVAC unit is on, there can be irritation to the eyes, nose, or throat.
- You may experience persistent allergy symptoms such as rashes, watery eyes or a runny nasal.
- Unexplainable headaches that go away outside of the home
- At home, you may feel dizziness, fatigue, nausea, or both
- Mold growth around intake vents and unit drip pans
If you live in a warm, humid environment with the air conditioner running, it is more likely you will smell mold. To address the problem, you don’t need to wait for any signs of mold growth or damage. While you may be capable of tackling a small amount of mold growth by yourself, hiring professional help is usually the best option. While there are many DIY methods to help you get rid of mold, if the problem is more severe, the Environmental Protection Agency recommends hiring a professional. Mold spores can cause serious health problems. To remove the infestation safely, you will need protective gear and equipment.
Removal of Mold from Air Conditioner Ducts
Your choice of cleaning product is crucial to the success of your attempt to clean your ductwork. The choice of cleaning solution and the method you use to clean your HVAC system will have a direct impact on the growth or elimination of the problem. A cleaning solution can be made using common household items.
- Use 1 tablespoon of household detergent
- One-half teaspoon baking soda
- One cup water
You can use one part bleach to sixteen parts water when working on non-porous surfaces. The EPA has approved commercial-grade mold-removal products.
You need the correct protective equipment, no matter if you are using these products or any household solutions. Wear thick industrial-grade plastic gloves or work gloves. You should also have safety goggles and a pair or coveralls. You should wear an N95 mask to clean the ductwork and work around mold, as well as other health issues. Before you leave the affected area or enter other areas of your home, make sure that all gear is removed.
Turn off your HVAC system to remove mold. To make sure that no one is trying to turn it on while your are working, you can turn it off at its breaker. To prevent mold spores escaping, you can isolate the ductwork using bladders if you have access to the source. To loosen the mold, scrub the area with a wet rag or a light brush. Keep scrubbing until you get rid of the visible infestation. To remove any remaining residue, you will need to clean the area with a damp cloth. You should also clean out the evaporating coils.
A wet vacuum can be used to absorb any remaining water from the ductwork. This is because if water is left to sit around, it will only create new opportunities for mold growth. To dry the system, you can use a fan to increase the airflow. All rags and sponges that were used during the process should be removed in heavy-duty trash bags.
Preventing Mold Growth In Ductwork
After you have removed the active growth, it is time to prevent new mold colonies. To kill any spores that might have escaped, you can clean the area with an EPA registered disinfectant fogger. A mildew inhibitor can be applied to your HVAC system. Make sure you choose a product specifically designed for cooling and heating units. This will reduce the chance of your unit being damaged by a toxic or ineffective chemical solution. You could have another mold problem in just a few days if you don’t take preventative measures.
Keep an eye out for mold
A re-infestation can occur if there is even one mold colony. You can easily compromise any area where there is water accumulation or humidity. You may have to scrub new vents, floors, walls, and ducts if you don’t stop moisture from entering your home. Contact Mold Remediation for help. We have years of expertise and deep knowledge about mold growth and removal so that your home is free from harmful mold spores.
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