Can Mold Grow in Your Home’s Ductwork? Let’s Find Out

While Alabama homeowners might be prepared to tackle mold growth in their kitchen or bathroom, this nuisance can appear in other, less familiar areas of their home. One of the most overlooked places? Your ductwork. Yes, mold can grow within your home’s ductwork. However, this only tends to happen under the right conditions. Let’s take a closer look at what those conditions are and how homeowners can prevent mold from infiltrating their ductwork.

Leaky or Poorly Maintained Ducts

If your ductwork isn’t working properly, issues with mold can arise, particularly when it comes to leaky ducts. When ducts have leaks, the cool air released from the AC unit is allowed to escape from your home’s ductwork before it reaches the vents. This not only reduces efficiency, but it also allows for warmer air to enter your home’s ductwork, which causes condensation to occur. 

When condensation builds up inside your ductwork, it attracts mold spores that are looking for a dark, damp place to live. The spores are more likely to stay if your ducts aren’t being regularly cleaned. Over time, ductwork can accumulate dander and dust, which serve as food sources for mold. 

What Happens if Mold Gets in My Ductwork?

If mold takes up inside your ductwork, it can quickly spread throughout your system. Once it’s inside your AC unit and ductwork, it can be difficult to remove from all the nooks and crannies in your system. 

Mold removal is especially challenging if it gets inside fiberglass and insulated ducts, which are commonly found in Alabama homes. In some instances, these components may have to be replaced altogether to successfully rid your home of mold. This not only takes time but requires specialized tools and knowledge, which can be costly if the infestation is extensive. 

How Do I Prevent Mold From Getting Into My Home’s Ducts?

Maintaining your home’s ductwork can significantly reduce the likelihood that mold will develop. If you have leaky or damaged ducts, it’s important to get them fixed immediately. This will not only prevent condensation from occurring, but it will also improve your system’s efficiency, which will save on energy and possibly your utility bills. 

It’s also recommended that you get your ducts professionally cleaned every two to three years. Having your ductwork thoroughly cleaned will remove the buildup of dander and dust, making it less attractive to mold spores. Plus, regular cleanings improve the quality of your air, which can be especially beneficial for those living with allergies or asthma.

Routine Maintenance Is a Must

In addition to routine duct cleanings, getting your HVAC system regularly serviced will help prevent mold growth from developing within your ductwork. Unfortunately, mold can grow in other parts of the system, including the AC unit. Evaporator coils, drain lines and blower fans are also susceptible to mold infestation, particularly in Alabama, where the humid climate causes condensation to occur near the unit’s components. 

Having these components regularly inspected and maintained lowers the chance of mold growth. Plus, routine maintenance allows for HVAC technicians to inspect your entire system for damage or premature wear. Fixing these issues early on can prevent them from turning into bigger repairs down the road, which saves time and money for homeowners. 

Additional Tips for Homeowners

• Consider getting a dehumidifier – Getting a dehumidifier can reduce the amount of moisture in your air, making conditions less favorable for mold 
• Replace your filters regularly – Replacing your filters can help keep your system clean and remove possible food sources for spores
• Avoid blocking your air vents – Blocked air vents can increase condensation
• Use fans in your home – Fans can improve circulation and lower humidity levels

Need Professional HVAC Services? C&G Has Got You Covered!

If your home’s HVAC system needs servicing, our expert technicians are eager to help! Located in Smiths Station, C&G Heating & Air Conditioning serves several communities along the Alabama-Georgia border, including Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika and Columbus.

Our licensed technicians are able to provide top-of-the-line service and answer any questions you may have. For a free estimate, give our team a call today at 334-489-3329. To learn more about other services, including repairs and replacements, visit our website by clicking the link here.