September is National Mold Awareness Month. And while It may not be the most exciting event on your calendar, it is a good reminder to check for a particularly nasty houseguest that could be hiding in your home: mold.
Mold loves moisture. Give it a damp place to settle, and it can move in like an unwelcome houseguest. Unfortunately, your HVAC system and ductwork can sometimes provide the perfect home. Excess moisture, condensation and leaks can all create conditions where this nasty fungus thrives.
So, how do you know if mold might be lurking in your ductwork, and what should you do about it?
Is That Mold or Dust?
One possible warning sign is visible growth around vents, registers or accessible HVAC components. Another is a persistent musty or earthy odor, especially when your heating or cooling system is running.
Before declaring the mysterious dark stuff around a vent to be mold, though, remember that appearances can be deceiving. Dust, dirt and other debris can look a lot like mold. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that determining whether a substance is actually mold may require an expert and, in some situations, laboratory analysis.
If you suspect mold inside your HVAC system, contact a professional HVAC company to inspect and properly clean it.
Moisture is Mold’s Best Friend
Finding mold is only half the story. The bigger question is, why is it growing?
The EPA says the key to controlling mold is controlling moisture. Leaks, condensation and excessive indoor humidity can create conditions where mold thrives. Fixing the moisture source is essential because simply removing mold without addressing the underlying problem can allow it to return.
Homeowners can help by keeping an eye out for water leaks, controlling indoor humidity and making sure the HVAC system is operating properly. The EPA recommends keeping indoor relative humidity between 30% and 60% to help reduce mold growth.
Think of moisture control as taking away mold’s apartment keys.
Duct Cleaning Is the Answer
Resist the urge to grab a random household cleaner and start spraying it into your vents. Mold involving an HVAC system can be more complicated than a small patch on a hard, accessible household surface.
Homeowners should consider duct cleaning when there is substantial visible mold growth inside hard-surface ducts or on other HVAC components. If insulated ductwork becomes wet and moldy, the insulation may need to be removed and replaced because it cannot be effectively cleaned.
Most importantly, the source of the moisture needs to be identified and corrected. Otherwise, you may get rid of the mold today only to have it stage an unwanted comeback tour later.
If you need help keeping your heating and cooling system working properly or want an estimate on cleaning your ductwork from a reputable local company, contact C & C Heating & Air Conditioning at (586) 439-3319 or contact us online today.
