Five Essential Steps To Keep Your HVAC System Mold-Free
As homeowners in Pearland, TX, we all want to ensure our heating and cooling systems are running efficiently and keeping our families comfortable year-round. However, one hidden threat that can wreak havoc on HVAC performance is the potential for mold growth within the system. Left unchecked, mold can not only impair your system’s functionality, but also pose serious health risks for anyone breathing in the contaminated air. That’s why at Clear The Air Cooling & Heating, we believe proactively preventing mold growth is essential for any Pearland homeowner. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to prevent mold in your HVAC system so it runs smooth and clear as it should.
Are you concerned about your home’s indoor air quality? The experts at Clear The Air can help! Just drop us a message online or call 281-612-1031 today!
Monitor Humidity Level
Mold thrives in damp, humid environments – and your HVAC system can unwittingly provide the perfect breeding ground if moisture levels get out of hand. That’s why the first line of defense against mold is maintaining appropriate humidity levels in your home. Invest in a high-quality hygrometer to regularly monitor indoor humidity, and aim to keep it between 30-50%. If the air starts to feel stagnant and clammy, it may be time to consider a whole-home dehumidifier to remove excess moisture.
Change Air Filters Regularly
Your HVAC system’s air filters play a critical role in trapping airborne contaminants, including mold spores, before they can circulate through your ductwork. However, over time those filters can become clogged with dust, pet hair, and other debris – allowing mold to proliferate. To stay ahead of this issue, we recommend replacing your HVAC air filters every 1-3 months, depending on factors like home size, occupancy, and whether you have pets. Set a calendar reminder so you don’t forget!
Inspect Your System For Leaks
Moisture intrusion is one of the most common culprits behind mold growth in HVAC systems. Take some time to thoroughly inspect your indoor and outdoor unit, ductwork, and any associated plumbing for signs of leaks or condensation buildup. Pay close attention to areas like evaporator coils, drain pans, and supply registers. If you spot any problem areas, address them promptly to prevent mold from taking hold.
Keep The System Clean
Even with regular filter changes, dust, dirt, and organic matter can accumulate within your HVAC system over time – providing a ready food source for mold growth. To combat this, we suggest scheduling professional HVAC cleaning and maintenance at least once per year. A thorough cleaning of the indoor coil, blower, and ductwork will remove any lurking mold-friendly debris and help keep your system running at peak efficiency.
Improve The Airflow
Proper airflow is essential for maintaining the right temperature and humidity levels to discourage mold. But if your ductwork is obstructed or your HVAC system is undersized for your home, stagnant air pockets can form – allowing mold to proliferate. Ensure all vents and registers are unobstructed, and consider upgrading to a properly sized system if your current one is struggling to maintain comfort. You may also want to look into duct sealing or zone control to optimize airflow throughout your living space.
Clear The Air Can Help You ‘Clear The Air’
By taking these proactive steps to prevent mold growth in your HVAC system, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying clean, healthy indoor air all year round. And if you do spot any signs of mold or need help getting your system back on track, the team at Clear The Air Cooling & Heating is always here to help. Contact us today at 281-612-1031 to schedule a consultation and keep your home comfort under control!