According to studies, each time that your HVAC system is in operation, there is the potential for microscopic mold spores to travel through the ducts of the unit and circulate through the air within your home.
Additionally, due to humidity and other environmental factors, mildew may make its way into the unit. Naturally, both mold and mildew pose many detrimental effects to the overall air quality within your home.
As a result, many health complications may occur. Continue reading to learn about mold and mildew, signs that these substances may be in your HVAC system, and the health problems that may stem from breathing in these dangerous substances.
How Does Mold and Mildew Enter a HVAC System?
There are, essentially, two main reasons why mold and mildew may enter into your home’s HVAC system. First, there is moisture. Second, the unit contains some type of nourishment for the growth of these substances.
If water is present, it allows for various types of organic and inorganic products to gather. As this process continues the mold spores and mildew feed on the gathered products.
As these continue to grow, they pass through the ducts of the system. When the unit turns on, the mold and mildew is able to pass through your home and spread, with ease.
The Signs
There are many signs that mold and mildew may be present in your HVAC system. The following outlines the most commonly experienced by homeowners suffering from this issue:
- First, a very strong smell – that is often described as being “musty” – may become evident throughout the home. You may notice that it is stronger when your HVAC system is on.
- Next, you may notice water leaks or puddles developing around the HVAC unit.
- Eventually, you may come to observe the presence of mold and/or mildew around the intake vents of the unit, as well as the air vents.
- Finally, you may notice that you, your loved ones, and any pets that reside within your home start to fall ill. You may notice that you become congested, you may start to sneeze regularly, and/or a mild to moderate cough may develop.
The Health Effects of Mold and Mildew Exposure
Now that you know how mold and mildew can get into your HVAC system and are familiar with the signs that these products have invaded your home, it is time to learn about the health effects associated with the substances. These include – but are not limited to – the following:
- You may develop a wheeze that is accompanied by a cough.
- The congestion that you started to experience becomes more severe.
- You may start to experience moderate to severe headaches.
- If you or someone in the home has asthma, attacks may become more consistent and severe.
- Serious advancements of infections may develop. Examples include the development of bronchitis and pneumonia.
If you suspect that you have mold or mildew in your HVAC system, it is time to have HVAC maintenance in Atlanta performed.
We here at Ronald Smith HVAC are trained to identify the signs of mold and mildew and have the tools, resources, and expertise to remove these dangerous substances from your HVAC unit.
Simply contact us today for immediate assistance: http://ronaldsmithhvac.com/schedule/