While the presence of mould can often be visible on your walls and ceilings, it is less visible if it's growing in your air ducts. Today, our Power Vac of Ottawa technicians will explain how mould can grow in air vents, how you can spot the signs of mould, and why you should hire a professional duct cleaning company to clean them.
The Negative Effects of Mould in AC Vents
Mould growth can cause severe health issues, including coughing, sneezing, nasal blockage, itchy eyes, skin irritation, breathing difficulties, stuffy nose, runny nose, headaches, and allergy-like symptoms. Exposure to mould for longer periods can increase the risk of developing these conditions.
In addition to these health issues, prolonged exposure to mould can also lead to more serious respiratory problems such as asthma and chronic bronchitis. Furthermore, individuals with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly or those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of mould.
Signs of Mould in Air Ducts
Signs of mould in your air vents include:
- A musty or mildew-like odour through the house
- Sneezing, a runny nose and watery eyes when the air conditioner is on
- Headaches only when inside
- Feeling dizzy, nauseated and tired at home
- Visible mould or black spots on air vents
How Mould Can Grow in Air Vents
Mould can grow in air ducts for two reasons: moisture and warm temperatures. A humid climate, coupled with poor ventilation or anything that traps moisture in your walls to cause condensation, can lead to mould.
Below, we list some factors that can contribute to mould growing in your HVAC system.
Impact of an Oversized AC Unit on Mould Growth
An oversized AC unit can lead to mould due to inadequate dehumidification. When the AC unit is too large for the space it’s cooling, it cools the air quickly but does not run long enough to remove excess moisture. This excess moisture can accumulate and create a damp environment that promotes mould growth.
Influence of Low AC Temperature on Mould
The temperature difference between the cool air from the vents and the warm air in the room can cause moisture in the air to condense on surfaces in and around the vents. Mould growth can occur if moisture accumulates and never has a chance to dry out.
However, if your ducts have leaks that allow warm air in, this temperature difference can cause the same type of issue. The temperature difference between the cold air in the ducts and the warm air in the walls can cause moisture to condense on the ducts, creating an ideal environment for mould to grow.
Advantages of Professional Mould Cleaning in Air Ducts
While hiring a professional may seem like an unnecessary expense, professionals actually have the tools and the knowledge of HVAC systems to not only remove the mould, but also to not damage your HVAC system.
Cleaning Mould with Ordinary Cleaners Won't Make it Go Away
Ordinary cleaners are not designed to effectively kill and remove mould spores. Mould is a persistent and resilient fungus that requires specialized products specifically formulated to eliminate it completely.
You Could Potentially Damage Your HVAC System
Cleaning mould from your HVAC system may seem like a good idea, but it can potentially cause damage if not done correctly. Mold can grow in hard-to-reach areas, such as ductwork and coils, making it challenging to completely eliminate without professional expertise.
Additionally, using improper cleaners or techniques may lead to further contamination or even harm the delicate components of your HVAC system. Professionals know what to look for and how to care for your air conditioner. Professional air duct cleaning for your business or home by ductwork cleaners who have HVAC training, so they will be familiar with your system and will know how to clean it without causing any damage.