How Your HVAC System Can Help With Mold

As the weather turns warmer and we head into the summer, most folks here in Michigan are preparing for hot, humid weather. In addition to dealing with the heat and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many people will suffer from seasonal allergies during this time. 

Pollen, dust, pet dander, and other common allergens are frequently the culprits of seasonal allergies. One allergen in particular can thrive in this type of environment—mold.

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can actually help you manage this common allergen effectively. Our Great Dane Heating & Air Conditioning professionals want to help you keep mold at a safe level inside your Clinton Township area home this summer and all year round.

What Is Mold?

According to the National Institute for Environmental Health Services (NIEHS), molds are microscopic organisms that play an important role in the breakdown of plant and animal matter. 

Indoor molds can grow on virtually any surface in your home, as long as moisture, oxygen, and organic material are present. When you disturb mold, it releases tiny cells called spores into your home. These spores are what you inhale when exposed to mold.

When Does Mold Become a Problem?

The reality is that mold is so prevalent in our world, it’s usually not a big problem. Most Michigan homes that are reasonably cared for will not have a significant issue with it. However, when conditions change and mold spores find ideal conditions inside your home to reproduce, you may develop a more serious situation.

Remember that mold requires a particular temperature, a source of food, and a specific humidity level to really thrive. When one of these conditions is not met, mold will begin to die naturally.

How Can Mold Affect My Health?

According to the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM), only about one quarter of individuals who suffer from allergies are actually allergic to mold. Of those individuals who are allergic to mold, about half of them may experience an actual illness from exposure. If someone in your family suffers from mold allergies, take special care to control mold growth.

During this unusual time of the coronavirus pandemic, you may be more concerned than ever about your or your family’s respiratory health. As a result, it’s important to take advantage of the things you can easily do to minimize exposure to any allergens such as mold.

How Does an HVAC System Help?

An HVAC system not only keeps your Clinton Township area home at a comfortable temperature, it can also help regulate humidity levels. Ideally, your indoor humidity should fall between 30 and 50 percent year round for maximum comfort and to inhibit mold growth.

When you have an HVAC system that’s functioning efficiently and effectively, it will automatically destroy some of the conditions that mold spores like best. This will naturally inhibit mold reproduction.

What Else Can I Do?

The most important thing you can do to help your HVAC system continue to fight against mold buildup is to change your air filter every three months. Some air filters can actually capture mold spores and remove them from the air. However, even the most inexpensive air filters can improve air circulation, which in turn helps inhibit mold growth.

In addition, you should schedule a professional HVAC inspection, cleaning, and tune-up of your system twice a year with our Great Dane experts. By being sure all components are working well, you will be able to maximize the benefits your HVAC system delivers for mold prevention.

Remember, the same preventative actions that help you control mold growth have other benefits as well. Good maintenance also helps keep your whole system running smoothly and reliably, as well as reduces your energy bills and improves your indoor air quality.

Contact Great Dane Today

If you are interested in learning more about mold control and better maintenance of your HVAC system, turn to Great Dane Heating & Air Conditioning in Clinton Township, MI.  Our team is well versed in HVAC maintenance as well as ways to improve your overall air quality. Call 586.790.2604 or request service online today.