What Causes HVAC Mold ?

It has been said that more than 50% of mold issues have been caused by HVAC systems. But why is this HVAC mold so common? First of all, it wants to have a party every time it encounters an area with high humidity levels and warm temperatures. These conditions are created during the heating and cooling of HVAC systems. That makes both over-sized and under-sized systems the perfect atmosphere for active growth. Improperly sized unit has to work harder than it should. This creates more condensation than usual and can easily cause a moisture issue. Condensation lines with standing water is a big problem. Not only will mold grow here, but an excessive amount of spores will be blown throughout your home every time your HVAC system turns on. Rain, snow and other precipitating substances can also create a mold-friendly environment in HVAC systems.

HVAC Mold Symptons

Health Symptoms – Health symptoms of HVAC mold could be the same health symptoms that you would experience if the mold grows anywhere else in your home. The most common of these health symptoms includes coughing, wheezing, allergies, asthma, sneezing, pneumonia, sinus infections and respiratory illness. While these symptoms do not require a specified location of growth in order to appear, if the mold problem is in your HVAC system, symptoms such as coughing and wheezing may appear more prevelently while the system is in use.

Sensory Symptoms – The two senses can help identify HVAC mold is sight and smell. If you can see a mold-like substance growing around your air ducts, drip pan or intake vents, there is likely a mold problem there. Also, if the smell of mold is most prevalent when the system is in use, there is likely a mold problem.