An outdated air filter will do a poor job of purifying the air that flows through your HVAC system. This is a recipe for mold spores to infiltrate your air ducts.
The general rule is to replace your air filters every three months. But it may be necessary to replace them more frequently in the following scenarios:
- You have high-shedding pets
- Your home is older
- You’re using your HVAC system more often because of extreme weather
Clean your furnace
Your furnace is an integral part of your home’s HVAC system, and requires regular cleaning in order to function normally. Mold in this device can easily transfer to the air ducts, spreading contaminated air throughout your home.
You may be able to clean your furnace yourself, but it’s a good idea to periodically have a professional come in to make sure that all parts of the furnace have been cleaned and checked for mold.
Get your air ducts cleaned
Your home’s sheet metal ducts are not the ideal location for mold growth, as the spores need natural materials to feed. But, that film of dust and debris that may have accumulated on the walls of your air ducts? Well, that is where the problems can start.
Having your air ducts professionally cleaned will lower your risk of mold by making the conditions in your HVAC system inhospitable to mold colonies.
Have your home sanitized and deodorized
One important step in mold prevention is removing the dust and dirt in your air ducts that can encourage the growth of a colony. But, it’s also a good idea to sanitize the air that flows through your ducts to eliminate mold spores.
Bee Clean uses a professional-grade botanical sanitizer that eradicates mold, bacteria, and even viruses like SARS-CoV-2.
Know the signs of mold
Learning how to identify the early signs of mold in your air ducts can prevent you from having to deal with a more costly and difficult to eradicate problem in the future. Here are some of the signs to look out for:
- Smell of mildew when you turn on your heating or cooling
- Yellow, brown or green discoloration on the air vent grating
- Allergies that don’t seem to be aligned with seasonal pollens or pet hair
Consider using a dehumidifier
During the more humid months here in Cleveland, it’s not a bad idea to use a dehumidifier to control the moisture level in your home.
Make sure vents are not obstructed
Proper ventilation will ensure that moisture isn’t trapped in the air ducts. So, it’s a good idea to make sure that your floor and ceiling vents are always calibrated to the open position for better airflow. You’ll also want to move any furniture pieces or floor rugs that may be covering your floor vents.
Check for pests
Pests can also cause obstructions in your air ducts that can lead to trapped humidity in your HVAC system. Make sure to know the signs of a pest problem and work fast to clear out your vents to prevent a mold problem.
Get your air ducts sealed
A well-sealed HVAC system will work more efficiently. And, with stronger airflow, mold spores will have less of a chance to settle and put down roots.
Assess your insulation
Mold in your insulation can easily migrate to your HVAC system as well. If your insulation is old, it’s a good idea to remove and replace it. This will not only lower the risk for mold exposure but will also make your HVAC system more energy-efficient.