Mold in air ducts can seriously threaten your health and home. Not only can it bring bad odors, but it also causes structural damage to your home and health problems such as respiratory infections and allergic reactions.
This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, cleaning, and prevention of mold and all you need to know about it. By understanding the causes and symptoms of mold in air ducts, you can take the necessary steps to protect your home and your health. Read on to know more about air duct cleaning in Birmingham, AL.
Signs of Mold In Air Ducts
The only way to determine whether mold is present in air ducts is to send a sample to a lab for analysis or use a mold testing kit. Regarding early indications of mold in air ducts growth in AC ducts, there are a few things to look out for if you’re wondering how to identify mold on your own. Let’s examine this:
1. Musty Smell
A musty odor is the first indication that mold can be present in air ducts. The first indication of mold development is typically a strong odor because it is first unable to see the area inside the vents. You should be concerned if the musty, mildew-like smell is there while your air conditioner is running. As air circulates through the ductwork in your home, the odor could spread to every room.
Although mold growth isn’t necessarily the cause of a musty odor, it helps to rule out other potential offenders. You can also hire dryer vent cleaning in Birmingham, AL today.
2. Visible Mold
Drop pans, ducts, and intake vents should all undergo routine inspections since they are ideal environments for mold growth. Mold spreads through the air by spores, tiny particles invisible to the human eye. Hence, there is a severe infestation, and prompt action is needed if there is any overt evidence of mold. Contacting a specialist who can handle the situation and ensure it doesn’t happen again is the best plan of action at this time.
3. Black Dust
Black dust surrounding the air conditioner vents is a sign of mold in the ductwork. This dust is dangerous and difficult to remove. Also, it may allow the conditioned air in your rooms to circulate and spread mold spores. Stop the issue by turning off your HVAC system and making an immediate service contact.
4. Allergies
If someone is exposed to mold spores, their health may suffer. If mold is present in your air, you could have headaches, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, coughing, sneezing, and skin irritation. If you get allergy-like symptoms when your air conditioner is on but not when it is off, go inside your ductwork. Your symptoms will worsen the longer you neglect the issue.
Forms of Mold in Air Ducts
Mold in air ducts can take on a wide range of forms and colors. You might be interested to learn what sorts can develop in your air ducts if you want to evaluate your mold problem fully. Many of the typical mold species discovered in AC ducts are the ones listed below:
a. Acremonium
Acremonium mold in air ducts resembles white powder and is a type of mold. Acremonium is typically next to your air vents in a damp, humid environment. It might not begin to grow for several weeks, months, or even years.
A typical mold in air ducts variety with a velvety feel is called Alternaria. It typically has a brown or green color. A lot of water must flow through the air ducts for this mold to flourish.
b. Aspergillus
It is one of the most challenging molds due to the variety of forms it can take. Although Aspergillus can be found in various hues, the most common are green, white, and yellow.
c. Fusarium
Fusarium frequently grows on the surfaces of walls exposed to dampness. Water may seep into the air ducts if the walls also have water damage.
d. Stachybotrys
If you discover black mold in the air ducts, it is Stachybotrys. Although it has a characteristic black appearance that makes it simple to notice, it may be undetectable since it develops deep into air ducts. It needs a lot of moisture to survive and is exceedingly deadly.
e. Trichoderma
Trichoderma lives in air ducts because it requires a constant water flow. It produces spores and proliferates.
Conclusion
Mold in air ducts can lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems, allergies, and asthma. If you suspect mold in your air ducts, it is important to have a professional inspect your system and take the necessary steps to remove the mold. Duct cleaning and prevention methods such as regular maintenance, sealing gaps or cracks in the ducts, and keeping moisture levels down can help reduce the chances of mold growth.
Duct Doctor Birmingham specializes in air duct cleaning in Birmingham, AL. We are a locally-owned franchise priding ourselves on honesty and integrity.