How to Avoid Mould Growth in HVAC Systems

For mould to grow fast, it needs an environment rich in moisture and organic material, and temperatures between 0 and 50 degrees Celsius. The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can provide such conditions unless moisture and “mould food” is prevented from accumulating in the system. Here are essential tips to prevent mould in HVAC systems:

• The drain pans should be maintained. If the drain pans are not sloped and cleaned regularly, standing water won’t be able to drain through the deep seal trap and will accumulate in the drain pans. The water and microbes in the drain pans will result in mould growth.
• Air filters should be replaced regularly. Wet and dirty air filters are inefficient at trapping mould spores and other contaminants. These particles will contaminate the HVAC system if the filters aren’t chanced on a regular basis, usually once a month.
• An HVAC mould inhibitor should be used. HVAC mould inhibitors can prevent mould and mildew growth in HVAC systems. The inhibitor should be applied to all the components of the heating and cooling unit following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• A disinfectant should be used. Before applying the mould inhibitor to a HVAC system, it must first be treated with a disinfectant that is labeled for use in HVAC systems.
• Ducts should be kept dry. Some ducts in the HVAC system may harbor large amounts of moisture and mould. The HVAC system must be checked to find which ducts are the most affected. Ducts must be cleaned or replaced and water-damaged components should be replaced.
• The air intakes must be checked. Air intakes that are near areas where organic materials accumulate will transport microbes and contaminants into the HVAC system. The areas below air intakes should be cleaned by moving dumpsters, and removing standing water, bird droppings and other debris.

To prevent mould in HVAC systems, the moisture and humidity levels in the home must be kept under control. The less moisture there is in the home, the less mould will be able to grow. Here are tips to control the humidity in homes. The PuroClean team stands ready to provide professional restoration services to any property affected by fire, water or mould damage.

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