Have you noticed a musty smell coming from your ventilation system? Chances are, it’s the result of fungus or mold growing in your HVAC system. This is not only an unpleasant odor but can also be hazardous to your health. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what causes fungus and mold to grow in your HVAC system and how to prevent it.
What Causes Fungus and Mold Growth?
Fungus and mold can grow on surfaces that retain moisture such as air conditioning coils, drain pans, filters, fan blades and ductwork. The most common cause of growth is high humidity levels combined with inadequate airflow through the HVAC system. High humidity allows the spores of fungi and molds to become airborne and enter the ducts where they can settle down on moist surfaces. Without adequate airflow these spores will take root leading to rapid growth if nothing is done about it.
Another factor that contributes to fungal growth is inadequate maintenance of the HVAC system itself, such as failing to change filters regularly or cleaning coils when necessary. Poor maintenance practices can create an ideal environment for the growth of fungi or molds because dirt particles accumulate on surfaces which provide food for fungal growth. Furthermore, old filters are more likely to contain colonies of mold spores which can spread throughout the system once installed in the unit.
Preventing Fungal Growth
The best way to prevent fungal growth in your HVAC system is proper maintenance by an experienced technician like those at Suttle Air in Gilbert Arizona. They suggest regular filter changes at least every three months as well as coil cleaning when necessary. To reduce indoor humidity levels they recommend using a dehumidifier or increasing ventilation with an exhaust fan during humid months such as summer or springtime when temperatures rise outside resulting in higher indoor humidity levels than normal. Additionally, they suggest keeping air conditioners running even during cool days because this helps keep air circulating throughout the home reducing opportunities for fungal spores to settle and grow unchecked on moist surfaces inside vents or other areas of the unit where water may collect due to condensation from cooling cycles.
Fungal growth inside your HVAC systems can create a musty odor that affects both health and comfort levels inside bars, clubs, restaurants, or any other type of business that relies on comfortable temperatures indoors all year round! To prevent this from happening make sure you regularly change filters and clean coils while also keeping air conditioners running even during cooler days so that moisture does not build up inside vents where fungus or mold could take root undetected until it’s too late! If you’re worried about potential issues contact Suttle Air today for more information about preventive measures you can take for your business’ HVAC systems!