Concerned About Mold in Air Ducts: Signs, Symptoms, and Prevention
Posted on May 18, 2022 by Angel Clean
Summer is nearly upon us all in the four-state area, and many of us already know the importance of having a properly functioning air conditioning system in a hot, humid climate. But unfortunately, it’s the very climate in this region of the U. S. that creates the perfect atmosphere for mold growth.
Essentially that means where there is moisture, there is going to be mold, and when temperatures rise, mold can thrive even longer. So, therefore, it’s essential to take preventative measures early.
Signs and Symptoms of Moldy Air Ducts
Mold can transport quite easily throughout a home or business through ventilation. That‘s because mold can exist anywhere on earth; testing for its presence in your home or place of business is futile.
The most obvious sign of mold is visual identification. So if you see mold, it might be time to watch for these additional signs.
Allergic Reactions
An allergy flareup may be your first indicator of dealing with moldy air ducts. Although any sign of allergic reactions, you should consult with your doctor before self-diagnosing to rule out any other health-related issues.
Some common symptoms to be on the lookout for include headaches, itchy burning eyes, sneezing, skin irritation, coughing, and nasal congestion. Don’t let your thoughts lead you away from checking your AC ducts; you could continue to suffer more, and your symptoms worsen over time.
Mildew Odor
If you notice a stale odor in the air inside your ventilation, that could result from unseen mold. Since mold needs moisture, heat, and some biologic to feed on and grow in your air ducts, the dark enclosed environment of a ventilation system is a prime breeding ground for mold to grow too.
If you have an air conditioning or AC unit, you know mold can multiple and enter your home or business ducting with increased moisture. Problems arise when the AC fails to dehumidify the air in buildings.
Black Molds
Black dust has long been described as toxic, but in recent years word is spreading that there is simply not enough evidence or research to connect Stachybotrys or black mold to the type of toxicity that some have alluded to in the recent past.
If you suspect you have a mold problem, contact the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services in your state or reach out to your local county public health agency on molds.
Prevent Moldy Air Ducts
After you’ve identified sources of mold in your ventilation, it’s helpful to clean those accessible areas or vents as a preventative measure to keep the mold from spreading further inside the ventilation system.
But before conducting any cleaning, your first step is to contact a certified local air duct cleaning professional. These cleaning pros can identify areas of concern and recommend the proper cleaning approach for your air ducts.
The experts in air duct cleaning can also guide you on maintaining your ventilation system between cleaners best. If you’re looking for a certified air duct cleaner to remove your mold in the four-state region, contact Angel Clean.