Common Signs of Mold in HVAC Systems (and How to Deal with Them)

 In HVAC

Out of the 21.8 million people who were reported to have asthma in 2007, approximately 4.6 million of those cases were likely caused by mold exposure over an extended period of time. This is likely due to mold growth in their home environment. So, how do you know if you need to worry about mold in your home?

Continue reading to learn how to tell if you have mold in HVAC system.

Signs Pointing to Mold in HVAC System

Mold exposure can be hazardous to your health. It can even lead to death in the most extreme cases. It is crucial to have your HVAC system serviced regularly to make sure that it doesn’t get to this point.

Musty Odor

A strange, damp odor is usually the first sign that there is a mold problem within your HVAC system. The smell may linger in your home or might come from the HVAC system. 

Visible Mold Buildup

Another noticeable sign of mold in your HVAC system is none other than mold. When you begin to see a build-up in or around your HVAC system, you already have a problem that needs to be handled immediately.

Physical Symptoms

Mold exposure will eventually manifest into physical symptoms. They appear like allergy symptoms, irritated nose, sore throat, and itchy eyes. Headaches and nausea may be present. The symptoms tend to worsen while you are in the home and lessen once you leave.

Can You Prevent Having a Mold Problem?

You can take preventative measures to avoid having mold in your HVAC system. The key is to keep your air inside your home fresh. So, how do you do that?

  • Change your HVAC filters routinely
  • Keep the HVAC system dry
  • Use a dehumidifier in areas that tend to get damp
  • Check the ducts regularly for a potential mold build-up

Preventing a mold problem in your HVAC system before it happens can save you tons of money, and even your life, in the long run.

What Should You Do If You Find Mold?

Molds are tricky to get rid of and exposure can make you and your family sick. 

Mold spreads via mold spores, and if any mold spores are left behind when getting rid of your mold problem, you may find yourself in a never-ending cycle. As soon as you turn your HVAC system back on, you may be spreading the mold problem back through the entire system.

Mold also thrives in a damp environment. If you have a moisture-ridden area that you missed in the home, you may be inviting the mold to stay for the long haul.

Turn off the HVAC system and call a professional.

Need to Find a Trusted Professional?

Now that you know how to tell if there is mold in HVAC system, you can take these next steps to get rid of it. We can help you! 

Contact J & M Smith Heating & Air today to get started.

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