If you are noticing a musty smell from your heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit, there is one likely cause: the presence of mold or mildew growing in it. There are many places where mold and mildew may be growing in your HVAC unit and several different ways to reduce or eliminate it.
Why an HVAC Unit is a Perfect Place for Mold and Mildew
There are two conditions needed for mold and mildew to proliferate; dampness and darkness. Dry conditions and light kill these home invasions. Warm air also helps to grow mold and mildew, though some types thrive in colder spots too. Your air ducts are dark and out of sight, and condensation will build on these vents and provide a great surface for mold and mildew colonies to expand. Further, other parts of your air units, including the evaporator coil, can hold mildew colonies.
Why Mold and Mildew Is a Problem
As many people have allergies to mold and mildew, the presence of these substances can lead to significant discomfort. Allergies aren’t the only problem either; some forms of mold, like black mold, can even be deadly. It is important to take care of mold and mildew right away to eliminate the risk of these problems. Take the following action steps of your air ducts if you suspect that mold and mildew are a problem.
Inspect and Identify the Problem
If you suspect there is mold and mildew in your home, then use your senses of smell and sight to locate the source of the substances. It can be hard to see inside your air ducts, but start with your air filters and inspect them for mold or other blockage. Use mirrors to see further into your ducts and consider disassembling portions of your duct to inspect it for problems. See if any areas of your home smell particularly musty and concentrate on those areas to start. If you cannot see these areas to verify the presence of mold and mildew, consider hiring a professional to come and inspect your system.
Remove the Conditions for Mold and Mildew
To remove mold and mildew for the long term, you will need to eliminate the conditions that lead to mold and mildew. Special ultraviolet lights can help to kill mold and mildew and prevent conditions that inhibit their growth. Check your home interior for water leaks which can contribute to the presence of moisture. Regularly run dehumidifiers to lessen the level of moisture in your home. Finally, change your air filters regularly to help remove mold and mildew and keep systems running optimally.
Prevent the issue before it’s an issue
Having your system maintained in both heating and cooling can ensure your system performs at its best. The three most common problems that occur without system maintenance are drain lines clogged with debris and bacteria, electrical component failure, and a filter that has long since clogged up with home environmental particles. These problems often cause a complete shutdown of the system. Worse that that – you could face additional water damage to your home. With routine care by Hammock’s AC you can lower your electrical bills and extend the life of your system.
If you need the help of a professional to maintain your system before mold becomes an issue, contact us! We’re your trusted and professional heating and air company.
