Mold grows in environments that are moisture laden and that have temperatures between 32 and 120. This means that HVAC systems are a place where mold can grow. Below are some tips to prevent mold growth in your HVAC system:
Drain Pan Maintenance:
Drain pans should be slopped and should be cleaned regularly. This prevents standing water from occurring. If standing water occurs in the drain pan then microbes in the water can grow and create mold.
Air Filter Replacement:
If an air filter is wet and/or dirty it is not doing its job of trapping mold spores and other contaminants. The particles that are not caught will then contaminate the HVAC system and mold will grow.
HVAC Mold Inhibitor:
EPA registered, HVAC approved mold inhibitors can be bought and applied to HVAC systems. These inhibitors prevent mold and mildew growth in HVAC systems. The inhibitor should be applied to all components of the HVAC system for it to be effective.
Use of Disinfectants:
Homeowners should keep in mind that before they apply the inhibitor that they should also disinfect the HVAC system using an EPA approved disinfectant designed for HVAC systems. This will make sure that they HVAC system is clean and not contaminated before potentially trapping it in the system with the inhibitor.
Keeping Ducts Dry:
HVAC ducts are susceptible to moisture. Thus, they may grow mold. It is important to make sure that HVAC ducts are dry. Homeowners should keep an eye on moisture in the ducts and take care of ducts that seems to be most affected.
Check Air Intakes:
Air intakes near organic material will transport microbes and other non-desirable particles into the HVAC system and throughout the home. Homeowners should make sure that areas near air intakes are clean and away from dumpsters, standing water, animal waste, etc. By keeping the area around an air intake free from these items the homeowner is reducing the risk of mold growth in the HVAC system.
While these are just some of the ways that homeowners can prevent mold growth in their HVAC system. Homeowners should also be aware of the moisture and humidity levels within the home as well. Keeping these levels under control means less moisture in the home and less moisture in the home means less mold will grow.
If you find mold in your home or suspect Mold in your HVAC system you should call a certified remediation company.
Individuals interested in hiring an established water remediation company in Philadelphia, PA can contact First Choice Restoration by visiting their website or by speaking with a customer service representative by calling 800-370-0770. Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!
About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.
