Key Indicators to Watch for Air Duct Mold Growth

 

If you want to ensure a safe and healthy home, you should consider the effects of indoor air quality. Airborne contaminants, such as dust and spores, can be the source of several issues, such as respiratory problems and eye, throat, and skin irritation. If the air isn’t cleaned up, more serious medical conditions can develop.

One of the more serious causes of these problems is mold in the HVAC system. This can be particularly troublesome for residents of Spring, TX, who experience hot and muggy days on a regular basis during the summer season. Moisture in the air can lead to condensation inside a home’s air ducts. If humidity levels are high enough, water will accumulate instead of evaporating.

This becomes a breeding ground for mold, which can be dangerous since your ventilation system can spread any spores throughout your home. It’s worth it for homeowners to learn how to identify mold in your HVAC system. Once you detect a problem, you can call an air quality company right away. Here’s what you should watch out for when finding signs of air duct mold.

There’s a Potent Stench In Your Home

First and foremost, if there’s mold in your HVAC system, you should be able to smell it across your home. Don’t know what mold smells like? Think rotting food or dirty gym clothes.

Even if you’re not familiar with the stench, you will be able to tell something’s wrong with the air quality. If the odor gets stronger as you approach any grates or vent openings, there’s a good chance you have mold in your air ducts.

Your Family Experiences Respiratory Issues

Do you have trouble breathing in your own home? Has anybody in your family suffered an increase in the rate of asthma or allergy attacks? Contracted any sinus or respiratory infections?

These are major red flags in terms of indoor air quality. Toss in any eye, throat or skin irritation, and you might be dealing with mold. If you find anybody is sneezing or wheezing more often, we recommend contacting a duct cleaning company.

Visible Signs of Mold Are Clear

If you want to try stopping the spread of mold before it reaches too far into your HVAC system, it’s a good idea to conduct routine inspections of your air ducts.

Check the vents every once in a while, including popping out the grates and taking a peek inside. If you detect signs of moisture or any mold itself, get in touch with an air quality professional to discuss duct-cleaning services.