Written on: March 15, 2018

You’re probably pretty vigilant about using a filter for your water. But what about the air you breathe?

In truth, you “drink” far more air than water in a day – about 10,000 quarts of it, according to the EPA. The problem is, most of those quarts of air are coming from indoor HVAC systems that provide moisture and cool air – which makes them a perfect breeding ground for mold growth.

Without treatment mold can spread through the air in your home and cause health issues ranging from watery eyes and allergies to asthma and more serious problems.

Mold warning signs

To stay on top of a mold problem, you need to keep an eye (and a nose) out for mold warning signs. Here are two key tips:

• Inspect your ductwork, evaporator coils, and HVAC drip pans for mold, along with anywhere else water or condensation accumulates. A good way to do that? Sign up for annual maintenance for your home heating and cooling systems.
• If you smell mildew coming from your ductwork – especially when you turn your system on for the first time of the season – wait 15 minutes, and turn it back on. If the smell disappears or weakens when your system is off and comes back when you turn it back on, you may have a mold problem.

Other things you can do:

• If you don’t see or smell mold, you probably don’t have a mold problem. But if you want to be certain, have your system professionally tested.
• Never try to clean up a mold problem yourself!
• If budget allows, consider installing a whole house air cleaner like the Aprilaire 5000, which traps 99 percent of airborne pollen, mold and spore-sized particles. Contact Walton today for a FREE estimate on an air cleaning system for your home.

Breathe easier with indoor air quality equipment – professionally installed and maintained by the Clyde S. Walton team of experts! Contact us today for a FREE, no obligation estimate and consultation for your Montgomery or Bucks County home.