Toronto is home to millions of people and is a great place to settle down and raise a family. But mold infestation can be a serious problem for Toronto homeowners due to humidity levels year-round. Don’t let mold take root in your home, as it can cause a lot of damage and may even create health problems.
What Causes Mold to Grow?
Mold grows easily in dark, damp environments. So mold often begins to grow when spores in the air come into contact with moisture that gets trapped in your HVAC system. Spores can also already be present in a dry environment, lying dormant until they are activated by moisture.
6 Ways to Prevent Mold in Your HVAC System
Here are some things you can do to reduce the chances of mold growing in your home, specifically inside your heating and cooling system.
1. Maintain Air Filters Regularly
Your first line of defense against mold and other contaminants is to simply clean or replace your HVAC air filters regularly. Most manufacturers recommend doing this every 90 days, but your home might benefit from more frequent maintenance, depending on levels of air contaminants and humidity.
2. Ensure Proper Drainage
Drain pans and drain lines should also be inspected regularly for proper drainage. If those drain pans and lines have water sitting in them for too long, this can create a welcoming environment for mold growth.
3. Clean Air Vents and Intake Vents
Air vents for the air intake on your ceiling and the walls in each room of your home can also be subject to a build-up of mold spores, dust, and other contaminants. Quick cleaning of the vents on a regular basis should do the trick.
4. Use a Dehumidifier
Homes in Toronto can be subject to humid weather. If the air in your home is often humid and moist, consider using a dehumidifier to remove some of the moisture in the air.
5. Keep Ductwork Dry and Sealed
To keep mold out of your ductwork, be sure to address cracks and leaks around the duct joints by having them professionally sealed and maintained.
6. Disinfect Ducts and Apply Mold Inhibitor
The ducts will also benefit from being thoroughly cleaned and disinfected at least annually. A mold inhibitor can also be applied to the surface areas and HVAC components to reduce mold buildup.
If your heating and air conditioning system already have mold in it, then you will want to get it professionally cleaned and disinfected. The best place to start is with professional HVAC maintenance and protection plans. Regular inspections are key to the early detection and prevention of mold in your home. Contact Aire One Heating and Cooling in Toronto to schedule an inspection of HVAC today.