Although Salem, OR isn’t as humid as some other areas, it’s still vitally important to protect your HVAC system from mold. Whenever a more humid day does occur, it can easily cause your HVAC system to experience issues. To protect against this, you’ll need to regularly inspect and clean drip pans, along with changing your air filter regularly.
Fortunately, if you run into an issue with your HVAC system in Salem, Woodward Heating Air Plumbing can help. We have the necessary skills to help prevent mold from happening in the first place, which makes it imperative to get tune-ups regularly.
Warning Signs of Mold
Determining if mold has gotten into your HVAC system requires you to pay close attention when the unit is working. You can also look for any visible mold growth on your air filter or air vents. By not taking care of mold problems, you could face increased allergy symptoms, skin irritation or respiratory problems.
Other indicators of mold in your HVAC include:
- HVAC discoloration
- Excessive condensation
- Black dust
- Higher energy bills
- Poor HVAC Performance
Since mold can infiltrate all HVAC parts, it is important to check these components too.
- Air filters
- Air vents
- Ductwork
Any appearance of mold must be remedied immediately. For this reason, it’s always best to rely on an HVAC professional. A professional is better equipped to check out the entire HVAC unit for mold than you can do yourself.
Cleaning an HVAC System
There are certain things you can put in place to avoid dealing with mold. Keep in mind that getting regular HVAC preventative maintenance is the best way to secure your unit.
1. Control Your Humidity Levels
Your humidity levels always need to be kept at the proper levels. Otherwise, you’re likely to fall outside the 30-50% range that works best for most homeowners. The good news is that there are at least three ways to control your humidity levels.
Address Any Condensation or Leaks
If you find any condensation issues or leaks, it’s wise to seal them up immediately. Failure to do so can lead to moisture buildup, which is a quick way to develop mold.
Use a Dehumidifier
Optimal humidity levels must be preserved in your home. If your humidity level isn’t sitting between 30% and 50%, then it’s up to you to act. A dehumidifier will help, although installing a whole-house dehumidifier will work much better.
Vent Your Moisture-Causing Appliances
Your clothing dryer can increase the moisture levels in your home. To protect yourself and your HVAC unit, it’s best to vent any moisture-causing appliances outside your house.
2. Maintain Your HVAC Components
Your HVAC system must have properly working components to give you the best living environment. For example, it’s wise to change your air filter every 30-90 days to avoid debris and dust buildup, which offers mold the perfect feeding ground. Other things to watch out for include:
Clean and Inspect Your Ducts
Any dander, dust or other pollutants that become stuck in your HVAC unit will support mold growth. Therefore, ensure you regularly clean the outside of your ducts. For the inside area, contact a professional HVAC company such as Woodward Heating Air Plumbing in Salem.
Clean Your Drip Pans
Keeping an eye on your drip pan is a good way to notice if it stops draining properly. If the drip pan isn’t drained quickly, you run the risk of encouraging mold growth through standing water.
Use Mold Inhibitors
Purchasing and applying a mold inhibitor can help protect your HVAC’s components. Remember to spray several areas, including pans, coils and ducts, to help prevent mold growth.
3. Three Important Considerations
In addition to the tips listed above, it’s also critical to do three additional things. Each of the items on this list has a proven history of preventing mold from taking hold:
Increase Your Airflow
Your home needs proper airflow and ventilation to avoid moisture buildup. If your home is too humid, try increasing your airflow.
Keep Your AC On
To avoid mold, it helps to keep your home a cool environment. Your HVAC system plays a role in regulating the humidity in your home; when it transfers heat away from the air it takes in, it forms condensation. The system uses a drain to route that condensation away from your home, balancing out your home’s overall humidity levels.
Bring in a Professional
If you want to avoid developing mold in your HVAC system, then it’s a very good idea to consult with a professional. Let them know about the typical conditions in your house so they can suggest mold prevention-related changes.
What Causes HVAC Mold?
Have you been dealing with mold in your HVAC system? It has probably been caused by one of two different things:
- Poor ventilation
- Excess moisture
Condensation and humidity will occur if you’ve got an HVAC system, mini-split system or central AC that is the wrong size. Once poor ventilation and excess moisture are combined with clogged air filters and stagnant air, you’ve got the perfect conditions for mold.
Dealing With HVAC Mold
Whenever you think you might have mold in your HVAC system, it’s imperative to immediately inspect your central AC system and air filters. Even if you don’t spot mold, it’s smart to call in the experts. After all, only professionals have specialized techniques and tools to thoroughly inspect your whole system.
Mold Odors
Another major sign that you’ve got mold in your HVAC unit is the presence of odors. If mold is present, whenever your HVAC clicks on, it may produce a smell that’s like a damp basement. Not only will this odor diminish the comfort of your home, but it can also lead to significant health problems.
Visible Mold
As previously mentioned, the presence of visible mold is an easy way to tell that your HVAC system needs immediate cleaning. However, be sure that you know what mold looks like, as it can take many forms:
- Black streaks on air filters
- Black clusters on air filters
- Black dust on air filters
Be sure to check for mold wherever moisture accumulation is common. Regularly check central air conditioners, window air conditioners and any other AC units for any signs of mold growth.
Professional HVAC Team in Salem
Woodward Heating Air Plumbing in Salem offers a comprehensive team that fully understands HVAC units, along with indoor air quality. Each of our staff members is NATE-certified and EPA-certified. To prevent your HVAC unit from developing mold, we recommend installing a whole-house dehumidifier, along with regular preventative maintenance.
Our family-owned and operated business has been serving the Salem area since 1989, and we’re also a member of the Home Builders Association of Marion and Polk Counties. Plus, we offer our quarterly Woody’s Project CozyHome, which provides a free, installed HVAC system to a needy family. Turn to us for all your HVAC needs, and we’ll surpass industry standards and install a world-class unit.
Are you worried that there might be mold inside your HVAC system in Salem? Contact Woodward Heating Air Plumbing right away to schedule your appointment for maintenance.
