The Heating, Ventilating, Air Condition (HVAC) system has become an accessible item in every household. It covers all the necessary needs year-round. At the same time, it’s the perfect environment for mold growth, given the high humidity level and condensation.
Mold is considered a health hazard by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and mold removal and remediation experts. Mold emanates spores that cause severe allergic reactions, putting your life in danger. This is why a professional HVAC mold removal process should be actioned immediately to avoid serious health problems.
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Mold in the HVAC system
EPA suggests that you check for mold in the HVAC unit regularly. Look for any sign of moisture as well, as it can lead to mold growth. You need to check that the condensate pans and the drain are working properly. Otherwise, they will accumulate moisture when you turn on your HVAC system.
The other places you can check for moisture are the air ducts, blowers, plenums, and air handlers. Again, any sign of moisture should be removed immediately to prevent mold growth. If you suspect you have mold in your HVAC unit, do not switch it on until you have it checked. Mold spores travel throughout your home or building, especially if it shares the same HVAC system.
Mold in HVAC ducts
The air ducts are a dark, dusty, and warm environment, which is everything mold needs to thrive. Especially during summer, the cool air going through the vents can create condensation along the sides of ductwork. That moisture condensation is one of the biggest culprits of mold in HVAC ducts.
You’re not sure whether there’s any sign of mold in the ducts? Here are some clear signs, even if you cannot see the mold:
- There is a strong musty smell in your home, especially in the room where the HVAC system is installed
- Your eyes, nose, and throat feel irritated whenever you turn on the HVAC unit
- You feel nausea and dizziness just when you are inside your home
- You notice mold growing in the vents, around the drip pans, and the air ducts.
Can mold in the HVAC unit make you sick?
Mold spores cause a wide array of allergic reactions, especially if you are a sensitive person. People who suffer from asthma are particularly affected as most health issues related to mold exposure are related to the respiratory system.
Some of the most common allergic reactions are red eyes, skin rash, runny nose, and sneezing. Other issues consist of a general feeling of depression, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
HVAC mold removal process
It is important to contact a mold removal service company to perform the HVAC mold removal, as they use specialized equipment to get to the root cause, remove the mold and make sure it does not grow back.
Here are the basic steps the mold removal experts will perform:
Pre-testing
The Pre-test is meant to inspect how much mold there is and which type of mold spores are present in your house. Remember, just because you cannot see the mold with your own eyes, doesn’t mean it’s not present.
HVAC Mold Removal
Mold removal technicians follow strict industry & New York State guidelines to clear up the mold. They use professional equipment and techniques to detect any sign of moisture, dry the property, and, most importantly, to remove the mold.
Post-testing
After that last step is done, it’s time for the Post-test to check the air quality and make sure the mold is gone. In this case, surface sampling is used to determine if the area has been properly cleaned.
Once your home is mold spore free, it’s time for the cleaning and disinfecting.
HVAC mold removal in New York
The EPA highly recommends that you contact a professional mold removal and remediation company to assist you with the HVAC mold removal. There are specific procedures and protocols to be followed, using professional equipment and training.
iFlooded Restoration technicians are New York State licensed mold remediation contractors, License #MR01129.
We are certified to perform mold remediation and make sure you and your family are safe from the dangers of mold.
With more than 30 years of experience in the restoration business, we use professional devices and techniques to get to the roof of the problem and get rid of any sign of mold. We also disinfect the area, remove the mold odor, and offer you the expertise to prevent it from happening again.
Once we ensure your home is safe and mold-free, we bill your insurance company directly, if this is a covered loss. This way, you have one less thing to worry about while you get your life back to normal.
Are you concerned you may have mold in your home or business? Give us a call and we’ll perform a free assessment! We serve all 5 boroughs of New York, Westchester, and Long Island.
