Imagine your home in Burlington, in a calm and peaceful neighborhood. Though it may seem like all is good, something can harm the home and its residents: mold. It starts in a small area, but over time, it will grow without you knowing it, spreading through the HVAC systems and contaminating the entirety of the home. Mold thrives on moisture, darkness, and humidity. Especially in these summer months, where humidity is prevalent, the likelihood of mold in HVAC systems is heightened. In knowing how mold affects HVAC systems, call for an inspection or mold removal in Burlington. For your own health and safety, it’s crucial to maintain good indoor air quality. Call Inch by Inch Inspection to perform a home air quality test to see if your home contains mold.
Learn how mold affects your HVAC system by reading below.
Impact of Mold on HVAC Efficiency
Your HVAC system is the backbone of your home's temperature. Home air quality is dependent on the system; therefore, if there are any flaws in the HVAC system, it affects the whole house. When mold is present, it can restrict air flow, forcing the HVAC system to work extra hard to produce adequate air for each room. Mold can also insulate HVAC parts, making heat more difficult and causing inefficient operations. The effects of mold will cause deterioration, demanding maintenance needs, which will add repair costs and decrease the lifespan of your HVAC system. If you are weary of your HVAC system being faulty, mold is likely the issue. Conduct a home air quality test to find the problem.
Health Implications
With mold in your ventilation system comes many health implications. Mold spores actively growing in the vents can release spores into the air, which is then released throughout the home, contaminating the indoor air quality. You may even be able to smell a foul odor, which could indicate mold. Individuals experiencing mold ingestion can experience sneezing, coughing, congestion, skin rashes, and other allergy-like symptoms. Others with severe health conditions can experience more severe symptoms. Consult with a professional to see if mold removal in Burlington is necessary.
Structural Damage
Mold naturally gravitates toward materials such as wood, paper, and drywall. Because most homes are built of wood, it’s not hard for mold to grow in those humid and dark rooms, such as the basement, attic, and bathrooms. With mold growth in HVAC systems, the humidity can lead to corrosion of the metal components like the ductwork. Because mold colonies can accumulate debris, they can clog filters and ducts. Doing so blocks airflow, reducing the system's efficiency and making it work double as hard to produce adequate air. Repairing these damages will cost a pretty penny. Whether it’s a cleaning, a repair, or an entire replacement, it will be a pain to fix. It will also require air quality testing, energy efficiency loss, and corrosion repair. This is why it’s crucial to remediate any mold problems early on to avoid further damage.
Mold Remediation in HVAC Systems
You may wonder: how do you remove mold from an HVAC system? It’s similar to any other mold removal procedure. It will begin with an inspection to evaluate what must be done to effectively remove it. The technician will then conceal the area to avoid further spreading of the mold particles. They will then clean the HVAC components (ductwork, coils, and fins). This is to dislodge any debris and remove mold and buildup. This must be done carefully so as not to damage the parts. The next step is to disinfect the HVAC components to kill the remaining mold particles left behind. Filters will be replaced with brand new ones to avoid reintroducing mold spores, and moisture in the HVAC will be remediated (i.e. leak repairs, improve ventilation, install dehumidifiers). Lastly, a final home air quality test will be conducted to leave you with a proper HVAC system.
Preventative Measures
To prevent mold growth, the number one factor to monitor is your home's humidity. This may require dehumidifiers, proper ventilation, and regular HVAC system maintenance. Another thing to keep an eye on is any leaks, and tend to them as soon as they are noticed. This will remove moisture and allow mold to land and grow. Cleaning around your HVAC is also essential to remove dust and debris so that mold can accumulate. Periodically, conduct professional inspections for mold around your home and HVAC system. Professionals have tools that can quickly detect any sign of mold.
Mold Removal in the GTA
Mold can be a pain for any homeowner, not only for the structural well-being of the home but also for your health. This will lead to financial burdens when conducting repairs and replacements in your home. If you suspect mold in your home, perform a home air quality test ASAP with Inch by Inch Inspections.