The dangers of mold in your air conditioner If mold is growing in your house, it can release spores that can be easily inhaled. We deal in all kinds of HVAC repair and installation services. Instead, they often run in the background in a low-power mode. Uncontrolled mold can lead to serious respiratory illness, eye irritation, and skin reactions. Mold is a fungus that has the smell of moisture or humidity. Whether it’s job loss, It’s hard to believe summer is in full swing. Today, you probably realize that things are a bit more complicated than what you imagined in grade school. If the fungus has spread on a carpet or some wood, it is best to replace it, as it won’t be possible to get rid of the mold’s totality. Unfortunately, AC can generate moisture. The appearance of mold in your window air conditioner usually means you have a problem somewhere, either in the unit itself, or the house. That’s why being proactive is crucial. Donnie and helper promptly arrived and were extremely courteous, professional and thorough. To use it wisely and safely, it is better to be well informed. Most people will have some reaction to prolonged exposure to black mold, but it’s much worse for vulnerable populations such as very young children, the elderly, and those with weakened or compromised immune function. Here are a few things to do to control the moisture levels in your AC. Mold can grow virtually anywhere in your home, and regardless of location, exposure can lead to health problems. Some individuals may develop asthma after prolonged exposure to mold. You may have black mold in your air ducts if you notice any of the following signs. Mon - Fri: 8:00am - 5:00pm. Work was done in a professional and clean manner. You can definitely try to remove the growth of black mold from your home, but the Environmental Protection Agency recommends relying on the services of a professional. Here are a few symptoms that most people have because of mold: Children, elders, and people who suffer from underlying health issues, especially breathing-related problems, are the most likely to suffer a lot due to mold. Runny nose that doesn’t go away with medicine. As the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) advise, “All molds should be treated the same with respect to potential health risks and removal.”. If you notice a little bit of mouldiness, wear a goggles face mask, and gloves. another hvac company, you should give Speeks a call. Mold, for example, can be worse in a window unit … Most people are aware that exposure to household mold can cause illness. Wipe any visible mold growth. In most cases, when the water problem is taken care of, the mouldiness disappears. If you have mold in your AC, you may want to check for a water infiltration nearby. We are available 24/7 and ensure an honest and reliable service on the same day! A well-maintained air conditioner will work better and longer. Inhaling fungus spores is dangerous for health and can cause multiple problems. We care for your comfort and so we care about your investment on your HVAC appliances.Reach us for a genuine quote and expert advice. Moisture and mold … No, as the EPA states: “an ozone generator has non tot little effect on mold growth and contamination in air ducts and ac units if public health standards are met.” Even with a 5-10 times higher concentration – which is dangerous if people are present – would not fully remove mold. Mold and mildew, found everywhere in the environment, are both fungi that need to be in moist areas to grow. Prefer the use of an air conditioner equipped with an air purification system. Before you install a window air conditioner in a room, consider some of the harmful effects it can have. First, make sure that your window units fit your windows tightly so that no air, humidity, or rain can enter from the outdoors. Mold in your car’s AC is typically hidden deep inside the dashboard, which makes it difficult to spot during the pre-purchase inspection of the vehicle. Here are some additional tips on how to prevent mold in a window air conditioner. A maximum deviation of 8 ° C is desirable. Here’s the checklist for smart homeowners to counter mold in air conditioning ducts: Conduct mold testing to confirm an infestation. Mold is a fungus that has the smell of moisture or humidity. Actually, it’s ideal for mold growing up, … ), there are more things to manage than you might have realized when you signed on the dotted line, including overseeing whether your HVAC unit is running optimally. Mold in the air outside can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, and pets can and be carried indoors. According to the CDC, “molds can cause nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation, or, in some cases, skin irritation. W.G. Read the instructions for the use of the air conditioning units used and follow the instructions therein. She even let me know some questions to ask regarding my recent new system installation. People with mold allergies may have more severe reactions. Make sure you apply the above tips, and if required, don’t hesitate to contact an HVAC company to perform regular cleaning of your air conditioning unit. After more than 75 years of helping residents of the Greater Richmond Region, W.G. Make sure to clean all porous surfaces, especially if they are near your AC. It is vital to make sure your family’s health isn’t being compromised by a moldy AC. Don’t wait for black mold in your HVAC system to become a dangerous problem. One of the first signs that black mold is growing in your air vents is a distinct musty, mildew-like smell in specific rooms or even throughout your entire home. Having too many porous surfaces like wood is also a common reason why mold can be present. Mold can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems. Mold found anywhere in the home can result in health problems, but when mold is in the air conditioning system, it can be particularly problematic. Remember when we were kids and couldn’t wait to grow up? If your air-conditioning system contains mold, act as soon as possible to reduce the risk of negative health outcomes. If you suspect … It’s common to find mold in your air conditioner or furnace. We are here to help! One of the easiest ways to prevent mold from building up in your ductless air handlers is by not immediately turning off the system when you don’t need it. Discovering mold in the home sends many homeowners into a panic. Most people will have some reaction to prolonged exposure to black mold, but it’s much worse for vulnerable populations such as very young children, the elderly, and those with weakened or compromised immune function. It probably does not surprise you to hear that mold in air conditioner systems can make you sick. The air conditioning unit as a place for mold to grow is even more dangerous because it is constantly blowing cold air out of it and spreading those spores all over. Call W.G. Black Dust Around Air Vents. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as allergies or asthma, can further complicate things. She went over my filter selections, made some adjustments to my thermostats, etc. How to Fix It? Always on time, call when they are on the way. I feel like they went the extra mile. Areas that are dark and have poor air quality can also contain mold and mildew. His cheerful attitude, his good. The good news is that there are some things you can do to maintain it properly and prevent mold to grow. He was respectful of my home and to us. They answer any questions you have. In general, mold inhaled in small quantities is not dangerous for health. It is best to have them lead to a drain tile in your basement or a utility sink. Use a cloth, brush, or sponge to soak up the solution. Three ingredients are all you need to create a spray that’ll take out white mold growing in and around air conditioner units, air vents, windows, and so on. Refrigerator Drip Pans. Mold in your air conditioner is very prevalent in homes, but diagnosing it and determining if its harmful can only be done by experts. There are numerous safety hazards related to mold. NL. When your home is warm, water vapors can form and collect in air ducts as cold air makes its way through them. Mold In Window Air Conditioner Mold in window air conditioner units is a serious problem because every time you turn on your air conditioner, it will blow tiny, invisible mold spores into the room. Yes, it’s a very unusual place. There are many reasons that cause mold to appear in your house. The fastest spreading mold is air conditioner mold as they reside deep in the ducts of your air condition and gets dispersed in the air whenever you switch on your AC. He seemed knowledgeable and thorough. If they persist for more than a few days, however, it’s worth making an appointment with your healthcare professional — and then follow-up by having your HVAC unit inspected. Having mold in the air conditioner is a problem because it can quickly multiply there and spread in your house. Judy was amazing. Air conditioning mold needs to be removed as soon as possible, to protect your health and the health of your loved ones. As mentioned, mold forms when humidity levels are out of control and excess moisture is present. The bacteria and mold can cause damage to both your air conditioner and your health. Clean your window units and drains regularly to prevent the formation of a food source for mold and its spread in your living space. Mold and other indoor air pollutants that hide in air conditioners can cause allergic reactions and even respiratory disorders. It is also important not to introduce any moisture to the AC ducts. To prevent mold from forming in your AC, make sure your air conditioner has drainage systems. Speeks at 804-276-2800. Most people will have some reaction to prolonged exposure to black mold, but it’s much worse for vulnerable populations such as very young children, the elderly, and those with weakened or compromised immune function. 8540 Keele St., Unit 41, Vaughan, ON, L4K 2N2, Copyright © 2020 | Smile HVAC Service and Installation, 31-32, 8600 Keele st, Vaughan, ON L4K 4H8, Ensure proper maintenance of any air conditioning system, healthier air, with bacteria elimination and fungus prevention. The main reason is the presence of water and dust. It contributes to: In this article, we will go through everything you need to know about mold in AC units, prevent it, and deal with it. However, mold located in air conditioning units spreads spores out into the air throughout the house, which makes it especially dangerous and especially likely to cause sickness. Primarily because there’s consistent moisture. We had Speaks do our HVAC in our home and pool house. Once mold has started growing inside your car, it can quickly spread onto upholstery, carpeting, and seats–ultimately destroying your vehicle. If an AC isn’t maintained well, mold can spread inside it and, as a result, spread everywhere in your living space. Even if you are skeptical as to whether or not mold is truly bad, there is no doubt that it can potentially cause harmful health effects. Check out and follow these tips … It is always best to prevent it from spreading too much. Give Smile HVAC a call and our experts will be at your place quickly to get the job done perfectly. Preventive maintenance is essential. If the wood, for example, gets moisture on it, it will generate mold for sure. Whether it’s black mold or something else, it’s worth giving your attention. The moisture comes from the condensation present in air ducts. Mold tends to grow in AC … Install an air conditioner with a high efficiency particulate air filter — better known as a HEPA filter — to remove mold spores from the air. Symptoms of potential black mold exposure include: These symptoms could be associated with any number of things, from the common cold to food poisoning. This is one problem you definitely don’t want to ignore! They show up when they say they will, or contact you and let you know they are behind.2. Prevent mold in your ductless air handlers. You’ve probably heard the term “black mold,” but many probably don’t fully understand what it is. Plus, humid areas like here in Florida have yet another common but potentially dangerous, indoor air toxin to be aware of: mold. Microscopic mold spores become airborne when air blows through the ducts and then are dispersed throughout the home, where they can be easily inhaled or develop into new mold colonies. Mold appears as a result of a damp environment, so any place that’s subjected to excessive moisture is at risk. If you … Select duct cleaning methods and costs depending on the duct material type. Mini splits don’t cycle on and off like conventional air conditioners. That’s why it’s, Saving money every day is important, but it feels even more important in 20, It’s hard to believe summer is in full swing. Mold in Air Conditioners. Inhaling fungus spores is dangerous for health and can cause multiple problems. Everything was great. Saving money every day is important, but it feels even more important in 2020. Mold and mildew develop in HVAC systems for two primary reasons: the presence of moisture, and the presence of nourishment that enables the mold to grow. Service technician was really really, good can’t speak highly enough of her. Air conditioning has many health and wellness benefits, but it is not without risks. The tech was very professional, and we have received excellent service from Speeks. All technicians are polite, friendly and take the time to answer questions. Mold Growth in … However, when black mold starts growing in your air vents, things get a little trickier. You may also be able to see the presence of mold around drip pans, air ducts, and within intake vents. Your furnace and evaporator coil have all the components necessary for things like mold to develop. One unpleasant issue that regular maintenance might reveal is the appearance of black mold in your ventilation system. After Hours service is available. How Can You Tell If Your Air Condition Has Mold In It? While you may be able to clean away any visible, outward signs of mold growth, this probably won’t eliminate the problem. Prevent mold -- and the health problems it causes -- with these basic tips from the experts at WebMD. Check that there is no standing water in the. She was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to explain the issues I was having. It likes to hide in your kitchen, bathroom, A/C ductwork, shoes and other dark and damp places. Controlling moisture can be the solution to prevent mold. However, even small amounts of mold should be taken seriously because they can quickly multiply and cause serious health problems. Your air conditioner blows air into every room in your home – air that has passed over a dirty coil! These fungi will eventually damage the surfaces they grow on by spreading seeds or spores. The experience was quick and easy. Black mold, or Stachybotrys chartarum, is a greenish-black mold that grows on materials such as fiberboard, gypsum board, paper, lint, and dust “when there is moisture from water damage, excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation, water infiltration, or flooding.”, When dirt and dust build up in air vents, black mold can thrive, which is why it’s important to commit to a regular maintenance schedule. Mold is a type of fungus that can grow practically anywhere, including in your vehicle’s air conditioning unit. The guys did not have on masks. Our house air conditioner wasn’t working and with the weather turning very hot and humid, we needed help quickly. The dispatcher called this morning to notify me that a technician was on his way. Mold can be one of the negative effects of floods or can indicate a problem with your air conditioning system. Our services include AC Repair, Water Heater Repair, HRV Repair, Air Filtration Repair, Ductless Repair, Furnace Repair, Humidifier Repair, AC Installation services and more. 1. The vents that run through your entire home will likely need cleaning to get things under control, as getting rid of black mold isn’t as simple as just removing the mold itself. Because the vent itself is non-porous, the mold will be on the surface of the register grill only and not present danger. Now you know everything you need about mold in AC and how to deal with it. Is it Dangerous? WG Speeks was able to help us the same day we called. Also Read – 10 Common Air Conditioning Problems You Should Know About Checklist for a Mold Free Home. These microorganisms grow due to moisture that is caused by condensation, humidity, or any water leakage inside the car, and also from a lack of airflow. I’ll ask for her next time. Their prices are reasonable, but heating and air isn’t cheap anywhere. It is more dangerous because the role of air conditioning is to distribute air through your house and rooms. Whether the mold is in your air conditioner unit or in your home heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) ducts, it is a health hazard. If you don’t already have a good relationship with. I would recommend your business to all of my friends. Avoid Moisture Like The Plague. Certain strains of mold can actually release mycotoxins that can lead to bleeding in the lungs and pneumonia. Mold In Central AC Systems. Take off the plastic front grille and inspect the styrofoam ducts for specks and spots of black mold, which can cause breathing problems and sickness. Dustin was on time! As a homeowner (or tenant! Call ahead for scheduling. How To Prevent Mold In A Window Air Conditioner. For this reason, it’s best to establish a routine maintenance plan so that any potential problems can be identified and addressed as soon as possible. When black mold grows on walls, floors, carpets and so on, it’s relatively easy to spot. Dustin, W G Speaks Technician, was on time, very courteous, knowledgeable, keeping me informed as to what he was doing as well as his findings. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as allergies or asthma, can further complicate things. Mold (also called mildew) is sneaky and is often difficult to spot. Mold tends to grow in AC if it is not well-maintained. If it is contaminated, then fungus will be effectively spread out through your place, and you will inhale it even when you sleep. Avoid large differences between the outside and inside temperatures. Phone contacts with W G Speeks are always pleasant, effective, and efficient.The Field Service Technicians are equally proficient and pleasant.Field Service HVAC Technician Vernon Black, the most recent Staff Member in my home, was an excellent Professional and an equally pleasant person, as well.My wife and I are very pleased with W G Speeks. Watch any episode of Property Brothers and you’ll know that cleaning up a mold infestation is a timely and costly endeavour. As an adult, you likely enjoy many aspects of your life, but you also recognize that there’s a lot more involved than just being able to set your own bedtime! … She pays attention to the small details. Their work is thorough and performed efficiently. You can use a strong household cleaner and a sponge. Mold is a fungus that will be surrounded by a mass of bacteria that will contribute to the odor. Removing White Mold from an Air Conditioner, Air Vents, and Windows. This can create many health problems, especially for kids, elders, or people who suffer from breathing and respiratory problems. It is easy to avoid these problems by having your air conditioning unit serviced on a regular basis by a company specializing in air conditioners repair. Ensure your drains are always unclogged and working correctly, if they aren’t, immense flooding might occur. Also they greet you with a smile and are respectful of your surroundings . Cleaning Black Mold From Air Conditioning Vents When things go wrong, it can have an impact on your family’s level of comfort, health, and finances. A mold inhibitor will go a long way towards helping you avoid mold buildup. On hot summer days, it may be tempting to set the air conditioner to a temperature below the 20 °C mark. Have you found mold but aren’t sure what kind it is? Call us today. I have been a customer for several years and WG Speeks is always courteous and responsive. It can be tough to get rid of mold from AC. 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