We recently had a new A/C unit installed a couple months ago. Now we smell a musty odor coming from our vents, and our HVAC air filters are turning black, not the usual brownish grey color from dust, pet dander, and hair.

Mold can form in your air ducts and HVAC system if water, water vapor gets inside. The mold grows from the collection of dust, pet dander, pollen, water, and other small particles which accumulates in the system over a couple months. Mold prospers in warm locations with high water vapor content.

What are signs of mold in HVAC system and air ducts?

1. Mold growing within the intake vents and around the air ducts and drip pans.

2. A mildew-like or musty odor coming from the air vents, or in the rooms with air conditioning.

3. Check if your HVAC air filters are turning black from the mold build up.

4. Irritation with your nose, throat, and eyes when you enter an air conditioned room.

5. Indoor allergy symptoms: Runny nose, rashes, and watering eyes.

6. You have headaches when at home, but go away when you leave the house.

7. Feelings of nausea, fatigue, and dizziness only when at your house, but feel better away or at work after a couple hours.

Typically mold infestation occurs in warmer climates or in summer time. It’s important that you ask a professional for assistance in dealing with mold, and do it as soon as possible.

Want a mold free home? Here are some tips.

1. Get tested for mold. Professional mold removal companies and some HVAC companies offer laboratory analysis of samples from your air filters and air ducts for mold infiltration. It’s always best to run a decisive test for mold as other particles may look similar.

2. Your HVAC system is a considerable expense for a pleasant home environment, so learn about it. Know the main material of your ductwork, is it fiberglass, metal sheet, or flex duct. The methods you use to clean these areas depend on the material type used.

3. Make sure the HVAC air duct cleaning company follows the guidelines of the National Air Duct Cleaning Association’s standards for the procedure. They should apply cleaning solutions and procedures accepted and registered with the EPA for safe successful mold removal.

4. Mold problems can reoccur. Have a yearly inspection for mold buildup along with your HVAC preventive maintenance.

5. If you plan to tackle the mold problem yourself, then take protective measures. Wear eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing. Turn off your AC before you start. Find the right mold removal solution such as vinegar, bleach, & baking soda. Make sure you remove any moisture when finished cleaning. It’s always better to hire a professional mold removal company though.

To have a healthy living and breathing environment in your home for your family and pets, it’s essential to have clean fresh air circulating in the house. Take the time to make sure you’re not breathing in mold and other harmful particles, and investigate the best course of action for mold removal and preventive measures.