HVAC mold can reduce heating and cooling efficiency. What’s more, it can also be the source of allergic reactions and illness in certain persons with sensitivity to mold spores. Microscopic airborne spores that spread mold contamination easily infiltrates houses and are eventually drawn into the airflow of the home’s HVAC system. Here are some examples of the places HVAC mold can develop in cooling and heating units — and perhaps the problems it can cause for occupants of the house as well.
Ductwork. Airborne spores accumulating inside ductwork are often exposed to condensation due to high indoor humidity. This moisture triggers dormant spores to turn into active HVAC mold growth. Toxic reproductive spores may be spread throughout the house by contaminated ductwork and can be the source of serious allergic reactions in some individuals.
AC coils. As airflow passes through the central air conditioner evaporator coil in the indoor air handler, spores present in the airflow contact condensation inside coil passageways. Resultant HVAC mold growth in the coilinhibits coil heat transfer and degrades cooling efficiency. In time, mold growth may obstruct AC airflow through the coil.
Condensate drain pan. Situated beneath the indoor air handler, the condensate drain pan collects many gallons of condensation daily during summer AC operation, safely diverting the water into a plumbing drain line. Spores from the AC airflow may contaminate the wet pan and trigger active mold. This mold growth frequently clogs the condensate drain line, causing the drip pan to overflow, which can cause indoor water damage.
To Prevent HVAC Mold
Replace the HVAC air filter every month during the summer AC season and at least every other month when the furnace is running in the winter.
Schedule annual preventative maintenance. This in-depth procedure provided by a qualified HVAC contractor includes inspection of the system for signs of HVAC mold in coils, ductwork, and the condensate drain.
Reduce indoor humidity. To thrive, mold prefers humidity levels above 50%. If you live in a humid climate, consider a whole-house dehumidifier to reduce indoor mold contamination.
Ask the professionals at Air Assurance for advice and expert service to prevent or eliminate HVAC mold growth.