What To Do If You Find Mold in an HVAC System
For HVAC specialists, spring is a busy season. Pre-summer system cleanings are plentiful, as nobody wants poor indoor air quality – especially during summer months when the air conditioning is running and likely recirculating your air around the clock. Many times, you’ll discover mold in drip or condensation pans, in ductwork, or around vents.
As you know, dust and debris collect in HVAC and heating units over time. When those materials absorb moisture, mold can form quickly.
If you find mold on a job, stop work immediately so that you don’t spread the mold and cross-contaminate other areas of the residence. Then call RTK for a mold assessment. Since RTK only tests and never remediates, you can be assured our results are unbiased and accurate.
How does mold impact the homeowner? During summer months, condensation often occurs in HVAC units and ducts, and this can lead to mold growth. Then, once the heat or A/C is turned on, microscopic mold spores can easily spread and contaminate clean spaces anywhere else in the building.
Signs of HVAC Mold:
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There is a musty smell in the dwelling.
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The homeowner is experiencing allergic symptoms, which may include a runny nose, trouble breathing, rash, or watering eyes.
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When the homeowner turns on the heat or A/C, they complain that their nose, throat, and eyes feel irritated.
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The homeowner suffers from unexplained headaches that go away when they leave the premises.
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They feel nausea, fatigue, and dizziness only when they are home or at the office.
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You see mold growing in the intake vents and around the air ducts and drip pans.
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There is staining around the vents.
If you find mold in an HVAC system, the best course of action is to have the system tested. An independent company, like RTK, can assess whether your client will be spreading mold spores when the heat is turned on.
Mold and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are the most common causes of indoor air pollution and can easily be tested for and treated. Call us at 800.392.6468 to schedule a test or learn more.
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How do you ensure that your property is following these HPD guidelines? Make sure to book a licensed inspector to assess your premises to guarantee that appropriate mold and lead precautions are being taken for your property.
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Open your windows – even for just a few minutes a day – to circulate fresh air.
that’s likely because you’re used to it. Your guests will notice right away, and if they have allergies, sit them as far away from the turkey as possible, get them a box of tissues, and watch out for the sneezing that will ensue! A musty odor means that your home may have a 
You’ve cleaned, touched up the paint, put in new air fresheners, and even replaced that old rug in the living room with brand new carpeting. You may think all these steps make for a healthier home, but each of these ordinary activities can actually cause poor indoor air quality. Dangerous VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are released into the air from many man-made materials, like detergents, furniture, cleaning products, and candles can cause headaches, fatigue, and other health issues. Studies have shown that indoor air can be up to 100 times more polluted than outdoor air. It’s no wonder we tend to be sicker in the wintertime, when we’re sealed up indoors. Mold is also a major cause of poor indoor air quality. An 
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Mold grows on water-damaged materials and can cause allergies. To prevent it:
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Mold
You may consider replacing plumbing fixtures to avoid some molds, but remember to check other damp spaces, like around your HVAC or air conditioning unit, areas near your windows and roofs, along with the attic and basement.
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