How to Protect Your HVAC System from Mold Growth

As a Birmingham homeowner, you may take for granted that your HVAC system keeps your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Still, because your system is constantly working, there is always the potential for mold growth. Mold in HVAC systems is unsightly and unpleasant and can have severe operational and health implications when left unchecked.

Our professional HVAC technicians at Aire Serv of Birmingham can help you keep mold out of your HVAC system by exploring various ways to prevent mold growth and providing tips on what to do if you suspect mold in your heating and cooling system.

5 Ways to Keep Mold from Growing Inside Your HVAC System

Discovering mold inside your home can be scary, let alone discovering that it’s infiltrated your heating and cooling system. Fortunately, you don’t have to wait around and hope the problem resolves itself; in fact, that should never be a consideration. It’s important to be proactive about removing mold, or it could mean costly repairs or replacement in the future.

1. Keep the System Clean

Cleaning your HVAC system regularly can go a long way in preventing mold growth. This includes routine maintenance like changing your air filter every 30-90 days, cleaning your air ducts, and keeping your evaporator coils clean. A clean HVAC system will help prevent mold and may also improve the efficiency of your system to keep it operating for years.

2. Control Moisture and Humidity Levels

Mold thrives in moist, humid environments, so keeping your home's humidity levels at bay is essential. The recommended humidity level for a home is between 30-50%. Maintaining proper indoor humidity levels is essential to prevent the growth of mold, bacteria, and other harmful microorganisms.

High humidity levels can also lead to condensation on windows, promoting mold and mildew growth. You can use a hygrometer to measure indoor humidity levels and take appropriate measures to maintain the recommended humidity range. These measures can include using a dehumidifier, improving ventilation, and repairing any leaks or water damage in the home.

In contrast, low humidity levels can cause dry skin, respiratory problems, and other health issues. You can use a humidifier to combat low humidity and add moisture to the air. Different types of humidifiers are available, including cool mist humidifiers and warm mist humidifiers.

3. Inspect Insulation and Ventilation Systems

Proper insulation and ventilation can help prevent mold growth by ensuring that air flows freely and excess moisture doesn't build up in walls or other areas of the home. Have an HVAC technician in Birmingham regularly inspect your insulation and ventilation systems to ensure they function properly.

4. Address Any Visible Signs of Mold Growth

If you notice any signs of mold growth in your HVAC system, such as foul odors or black spots, it's essential to address the issue immediately. Ignoring the problem will only allow it to grow larger and potentially harm your health and indoor air quality.

5. Hire Professionals Like Aire Serv of Birmingham

While regular maintenance and cleaning are essential, it's important to hire professionals like Aire Serv of Birmingham to thoroughly inspect your HVAC system to ensure no mold growth. Our licensed professionals have the expertise and equipment to detect and prevent mold growth while providing peace of mind.

The Impact of Mold on HVAC Systems and Your Health

Mold growth in HVAC systems can have severe health implications when left unchecked. Mold exposure can cause various health problems, including respiratory issues, skin irritation, and allergic reactions. Suppose you or someone in your household experiences any of these symptoms. In that case, it's essential to contact a healthcare professional immediately and have an expert address the mold growth in your HVAC system.

Given that HVAC systems are responsible for circulating air throughout homes, it's unsurprising that they play a critical role in maintaining indoor air quality. When mold grows in HVAC systems, it can compromise the quality of the air you breathe. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), indoor air pollution can be two to five times higher than outdoor air pollution. Ensuring that your HVAC system is mold-free is critical for maintaining good health.

Should a Homeowner Perform DIY Mold Removal?

While DIY mold removal may seem like a cost-effective solution, it is generally not recommended if you know there is mold in your HVAC system. Mold can be challenging to detect and remove entirely from your system, and improper removal techniques can cause more harm than good.

Additionally, some types of mold can be hazardous to human health, making professional remediation crucial to protect the safety of those living in the home.

Some of the most common toxic molds include:

• Stachybotrys: This type of mold, also known as “black mold,“ produces mycotoxins that can cause respiratory issues, fatigue, and other health problems. While it has the moniker “black mold,” it may appear greenish on surfaces.
• Aspergillus: This fungus can thrive indoors and outdoors and on various surfaces. If you or a loved one is exposed, it may cause coughing, respiratory infections, and fever in rare cases.
• Penicillium: This type of mold is important in nature, as it helps decompose organic material and is commonly known for giving us penicillin. Still, it can negatively affect those with compromised immune systems.
• Cladosporium: Cladosporium is a mold type that can cause skin irritation and, in rare cases, respiratory infections. You may see green, brown, or black spots if this mold is inside your home.

If you suspect that your HVAC is harboring mold, it is essential to have it tested by a professional to determine the type of mold present and take appropriate measures to address the problem.

Take Action Now to Protect Your Home and Health

Preventing mold growth in your HVAC system is critical for maintaining healthy indoor air quality and preventing health problems related to mold exposure. However, if you suspect mold growth in your HVAC system, immediately contact a professional at Aire Serv of Birmingham. We have the experience and equipment to detect and resolve mold in various heating and cooling system components.

Mold growth in HVAC systems is a serious problem that requires proactive steps to prevent and address. By keeping your HVAC system clean, controlling moisture levels, inspecting insulation and ventilation systems, addressing visible signs of mold growth, and hiring a licensed HVAC pro, you can maintain healthy indoor air quality and improve your overall health.

Contact us today to request service and keep your Birmingham home safe and comfortable.