It’s something no homeowner wants to think about, but mold growth in the air vents is a worthwhile concern. The frequently changing temperature in your air vents allows for condensation, and when you kick on the heat, you create the ideal environment for mold growth. Let’s explore three signs that mold is growing in your air vents so that you know when it’s time to act.
You Smell Something Musty
A strange, earthy scent arising each time the air kicks on might indicate mold growth in your HVAC system. This smell is distinct from the warm, dusty smell of the heat turning on. When your air vents are moldy, you’ll smell decay, must, or something like wet wood. Sometimes, newer mold growth won’t smell until you get close to the air vent or open it up.
You Spy Splotches in Your Vents
The best time to look into your vents for signs of mold is when you’re replacing the air filters. Mold can even grow on the air filter itself, appearing in round splotches. Dust can disguise mold somewhat, but unlike the dark gray or even black of the dust or soot the air filter catches, mold comes in various colors. It’s important to look into the vents with a flashlight and seek out similar growth splotches.
Your Family Is Suffering From Indoor Allergies
A subtle sign that your home’s air has a high mold spore concentration is that it seems like your family is suffering from allergy symptoms indoors. Runny noses, sneezing, itchy skin, and itchy eyes are all signs that something in the air is irritating your family. These signs of discomfort should signal to parents that it’s time to start looking for mold. Symptoms could also come from dander allergies in households with pets, so remember to factor pets into the family itch factor.
If you notice any of these three signs that mold is growing in your air vents, don’t panic! Mold does pose a potential danger to family members with asthma or other respiratory issues, but it isn’t exactly toxic enough to rush you out of your home. Instead, once you spot mold, it’s time to call in a company and get some help protecting the air your family breathes. With the arrangements made, all you need to do is prep your home for mold remediation and find something for your family to do while your air vent cleaning is underway.
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