HVAC systems have evolved over time to cool your home while improving your indoor air quality at the same time. Unfortunately, you’re still bound to encounter problems with your system that need to be addressed right away to keep yourself and your family healthy. Here’s everything you need to know if you’ve noticed mold growing on your air vents.
Signs of Mold in Your Air Ducts
The first sign of mold in your HVAC system is often a moldy or musty smell when your system is being used. HVAC mold is usually able to be smelled before it’s seen, so turn your system off and inspect it right away if you notice the smell of must, mold, or mildew coming from your vents.
If you notice visible mold on your air vents, in the ducts, or in drip pans, call a professional as soon as possible. Visible mold might mean the problem has become too severe to be taken care of on your own.
If your family starts showing symptoms like nausea, fatigue, headaches, sneezing, coughing, or dizziness only in the house or only when your HVAC system is running, it might be caused by mold in your air ducts.
Why Does Mold Grow on Air Vents?
Mold favors environments with high humidity. When air passes through your air ducts, especially if the air outside is humid, water droplets can form and the moisture can become the perfect spot for mold to grow. Additionally, mold can grow quickly in your air ducts and vents because it can feed on the dirt, dust, dead skin cells, pollen and dander that builds up in your ducts.
How to Remove Mold from Your HVAC System
It’s important to use the right cleaner for mold removal. Some cleaners don’t actually kill mold cells, and the moisture from these cleaners can even allow the mold to secretly grow. For the best results, we recommend using a mix of one tablespoon of household detergent, a half tablespoon of baking soda, and one cup of water. You can also use one part bleach mixed with 16 parts water on non-porous surfaces.
Before you start cleaning, be sure to protect yourself with a mask, thick gloves, safety goggles, and some form of protective clothing.
Start by turning off the heating and cooling vents. Next, remove the vent and scrub it with a rag and your cleaning solution. Do the same inside the vent and repeat the process in any vents you suspect might have mold. For heavy mold growth, we recommend cleaning the same area at least twice.
Dispose of the rags, your gloves, and anything else that comes into direct contact with the mold. Be sure to use a trash bag that’s at least six mil thick, and remove the trash bag from your house right away.
If you can’t reach all the mold on your own, call an HVAC professional. All mold should be removed to prevent future growth.
Quality HVAC Services with Ellis AC
Ellis AC offers top-notch HVAC maintenance, repairs, and replacements at prices you can afford. Our skilled HVAC technicians are dedicated to quality service and client satisfaction, so call or visit our website for a free quote today!