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Mold in HVAC System? Warning Signs

 

We here at Branch Services know that it can be easy to forget about your home’s HVAC system. Many people don’t even consider looking at their air ducts until there is a problem. As is the case with most things in life, if you wait for it to break it will end up costing you much more in the long run. Preventative air duct maintenance can not only keep your system running efficiently, without interruption, but it can also make the air you breathe cleaner too! Air duct cleaning and maintenance can help remove bacteria, pet dander, and even pathogens like black mold that can cause life-threatening infections to people with weaker immune systems—according to the University of Florida’s Emerging Pathogens Institute. It is recommended that they are checked at least once a year. If a professional service hasn’t checked your air duct system recently, now is the time. Hopefully, your air isn’t already contaminated and there is no mold in your HVAC system but if it is we recommend calling as soon as possible!

Warning Signs Your HVAC System and Ducts Need a Cleaning

Inexplicable spikes in your energy bill

If you begin to find that your bills are rising without a clear explanation, then you may need maintenance. Clogs or leaks in the duct system can reduce the system’s efficiency dramatically, costing you money.

Respiratory problems

Allergies, sinus infections, asthma, or other respiratory problems may be the result of dirt and debris caught in your ductwork.

Signs of an infestation: rodent, insect, or bird

Detecting an infestation in your ductwork can be difficult. Without the use of cameras or technology that can span the entirety of your ductwork, you can’t be sure.  While not scientific, without the use of a professional service you need to rely on your senses. Unusual smells or hearing something within the ducts are your clues. If you are unsure if you have an infestation in your ductwork we recommend you call us immediately.

Visible mold in HVAC system

This is, clearly, the most obvious sign of mold growth within your home. While again, you would be unable to check the entirety of your system, you can check near the vents for a black growth. If you do see unwelcome mold growth please call us immediately. The CDC reports that recent studies suggest a potential link between early mold exposure and asthma in children.

If you haven’t had your ducts or HVAC system checked in over a year, or if you believe your home may be contaminated, call Branch Services at 631.467.6600. We are open 24 hours a day and will do our best to resolve your HVAC issue before the cold weather gets here!