Do you know the signs you have mold in your ductwork? As the premier provider of ductwork services in San Antonio, TX, Apollo Air Heating & Cooling can help you understand when to call for help. From Leon Springs to South Side, every homeowner can rely on our expertise and prompt response to keep mold at bay.

How Mold Forms in an HVAC System

Mold can form whenever humidity or moisture levels rise. For example, if your air conditioner’s drain line clogs, the spores might proliferate and spread to your ductwork.

This can also happen if you have a leak in your plumbing. Water may drip into the ducts, leaving them vulnerable to microbial growth. No matter the source of moisture, mold can start forming in 24 to 48 hours.

Eight Signs You Should Have Your San Antonio HVAC System Checked for Mold

How do homeowners know when they should call a technician to deal with mold in their air ducts? They should look for the following signs.

1. The HVAC System Has a Musty Smell When You Activate It

Does your San Antonio home smell like a basement or forest whenever you start heating or cooling it? Mold produces this smell, and you shouldn’t ignore it or consider it benign. With prompt attention, you can resolve the issue and mitigate its long-term consequences.

2. The Family Has More Frequent Allergic Reactions

You may have mold in your ductwork if you notice a significant decline in indoor air quality, which can lead to an increase in allergic reactions. A mold allergy often manifests with the following symptoms:

• Itching in the eyes, nose, or throat
• Sneezing and coughing
• Mucus buildup in the nose and throat
• Irritation of the skin, including dryness
• Trouble breathing or tightness in your chest

3. You See the Mold Growing

You can know for certain you have mold growth in your HVAC system if you see it growing. While the fungus often develops in unseen places, you may notice it in and around your vents. It can present with a range of colors, but usually has a fuzzy and raised appearance and grows in uneven blobs.

4. Energy Bills Spike Without Explanation

When you have mold in the air conditioner or other parts of your HVAC system, it inhibits the function of your devices. For example, it can clog your ductwork, forcing your air conditioner to work hard to cool the home. It will use more energy, and you’ll notice a rise in your electrical or gas bills.

5. The Family Has an Increase in Respiratory Problems

Have people in your home experienced more trouble breathing? Long-term mold exposure can have significant effects on your respiratory system. Some conditions that can arise include:

• Asthma
• Lung cancer
• Cystic fibrosis
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder

Deal with mold quickly to avoid these complications.

6. You’ve Recently Had a Leak or Condensation Buildup

Any form of moisture buildup in your home can lead to mold in your ductwork. If you recently had a leak in your plumbing or your air conditioner couldn’t drain condensation, pay extra attention to the signs of growing mold.

When you experience a period of high moisture, increase the airflow in your home to dry everything out faster. You can run your HVAC fan even when you’re not cooling or heating to help.

7. The HVAC System Doesn’t Perform Well

Mold can damage components in your devices or restrict airflow through your ducts. You may notice air that feels lukewarm, or the breeze coming from your vents may seem much weaker.

Another sign of poor indoor air quality is the presence of hot and cold pockets in various rooms. Also, consider calling for service if the system takes longer than usual to heat or cool your home.

8. You’re Experiencing Excessive Humidity in the Home

San Antonio is known for its humid summers, and in general, your air conditioner should control the moisture in your home. However, when it doesn’t perform well, the levels may rise beyond 60%. This saturation provides the perfect breeding ground for mold.