How to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Mold can grow in HVAC systems due to a combination of factors that create an ideal environment for its growth.

1. Moisture: Mold thrives in damp environments. The condensation that occurs as part of the HVAC system's cooling process can create pockets of moisture, especially if the system isn't draining properly.‍
2. Darkness: Mold also prefers dark places, and an HVAC system provides plenty of hidden, shaded areas.‍
3. Dust and Debris: HVAC systems pull in air from outside, which can contain mold spores, dust, and other debris. These particles can accumulate in the ducts, filters, and other parts of the system, providing food for mold to grow.‍
4. Temperature Fluctuations: Molds can grow in various temperatures, but they particularly like temperatures between 77 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit (25-30 degrees Celsius), which are common indoor temperatures.
   

To prevent mold growth, it's important to keep HVAC systems clean, ensure they're draining properly, and consider using a dehumidifier if you live in a particularly humid climate. Regular maintenance and inspections are also key to catching any potential mold problems early.

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Before you can take care of the problem of mold in your air ducts, it is essential to know the most common types of mold and what they look like. Below you will find five examples of the most commonly found mold types that are found in air ducts, air conditioners, and vents.

Aspergillus

Aspergillus is one of the more complicated kinds of mold to identify because there are so many forms that it can take on. There are several colors that this type takes on, most commonly green, yellow or white.

Chaetomium

Chaetomium most commonly grows on walls, but it can appear in ducts and vents. It most often looks like a brown cotton-like substance. The problem with Chaetomium is that the color changes over time, making it harder to distinguish.

Alternaria

Alternaria is arguably the most commonly found type of mold. It is green or brown and has a velvet texture. This kind of mold grows in areas that are moist for a significant amount of time, namely air ducts and vents.

Fusarium

Fusarium is a type of mold that tends to grow in spots where there has been water damage, usually on walls. However, it is also prevalent in places where water is continuously running through a space such as air vents if there has been any water damage to them.

Acremonium

Acremonium is a common type of mold that grows in areas that are damp and wet. This particular type of mold is highly toxic and grows over time, taking on the appearance of a white powdery substance.

Exposure to mold is hazardous. This is why it becomes incredibly important to make sure you have your ducts cleaned regularly. At Willard Duct Cleaning our expertise lies in ensuring that your ducts are cleaned properly and efficiently. All of our staff are equipped with special tools to identify and deal with mold efficiently and safely without exposing you and your family to the toxic spores.

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Schedule a free air quality inspection.

There are several ways to address mold in your HVAC system:

1. Regular Maintenance: Regularly changing the filter and consistently running the system can help prevent mold growth. This ensures that the environment within the system remains unfavorable for mold proliferation.‍
2. Use of EPA-Registered Disinfectant: An EPA-registered disinfectant labeled for HVAC use can be used to clean non-porous surfaces such as ductwork, coils, plenums, pans etc. of mold, mildew, and other dirt.‍
3. Duct Cleaning Services: Professional duct cleaning services can help stop mold growth before a serious infestation occurs.
4. ‍Application of Mold Inhibitor: To kill present mold and disinfect the area, technicians can apply an HVAC mold inhibitor kight(often called a biocide or antimicrobial solution) to the air ducts.
   

It's important to note that if mold growth is extensive, it may be necessary to hire a professional to thoroughly clean your system. Also, any underlying issues causing excess moisture in your HVAC system should be addressed to prevent future mold growth.

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The type of AC filter you use depends on a few factors, including the size of your home, the climate you live in, and your personal preferences. Here are some of the most common types of AC filters and their benefits:

• Fiberglass filters: These are the most common type of AC filter and are relatively inexpensive. They do a good job of trapping large particles, such as dust and pollen. However, they do not trap smaller particles, such as allergens and pollutants.
• Pleated filters: These filters are made of pleated paper or fabric and have a larger surface area than fiberglass filters. This allows them to trap more particles, including smaller particles, such as allergens and pollutants. Pleated filters are more expensive than fiberglass filters, but they can provide better air quality.
• HEPA filters: These filters are the most effective at trapping particles, including allergens, pollutants, and bacteria. However, they can be expensive and can restrict airflow, which can reduce the efficiency of your AC unit.
• Activated carbon filters: These filters contain activated carbon, which helps to absorb odors and pollutants. They are not as effective at trapping particles as HEPA filters, but they can be a good option if you are concerned about odors.

If you have allergies or asthma, you may want to consider using a HEPA filter or an activated carbon filter. These filters can help to improve your indoor air quality and reduce your exposure to allergens and pollutants.

If you live in a dusty or dirty climate, you may want to consider using a pleated filter. These filters have a larger surface area than fiberglass filters, so they can trap more particles.

If you are concerned about the cost of filters, you may want to consider using a fiberglass filter. These filters are the most affordable option, but they do not trap as many particles as other types of filters.

Ultimately, the best type of AC filter for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the factors listed above and choose the filter that is right for you.

Here are some additional tips for choosing the right AC filter:

• Check the size of your AC unit. Make sure to choose a filter that is the right size for your AC unit.
• Consider the climate you live in. If you live in a dusty or dirty climate, you may want to choose a filter with a higher MERV rating.
• Read the manufacturer's instructions. The manufacturer's instructions will typically recommend a specific type of filter for your AC unit.
• Change your filter regularly. The frequency with which you need to change your filter depends on the type of filter you use and the climate you live in.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you choose the right AC filter for your home and keep your air quality at its best.

Your air filters should be changed or cleaned at least once every three months. This is important for keeping the air quality in your home clean and healthy, as well as reducing strain on your HVAC system. Additionally, you may need to change them more often if you have pets or if anyone in your home suffers from allergies.

We use Bio-Fresh cd which is design to control of bacteria, mold, mildew, fungi and yeast.

Bacteria and mold are everywhere in our environment. For many allergy sufferers, their presence and growth in the air handling system can significantly aggravate or even initiate an allergic response. Bio-Fresh cd can address this by preventing the growth of bacteria, mold, etc. It specifically reacts with the microbial’s cell wall, interfering with and preventing their growth.

An enhanced benefit of Bio-Fresh cd is its low toxicity and safety rating from the EPA. Bio-Fresh cd does not use any environmentally damaging propellants or flammable ingredients, and may be applied to occupied spaces.

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We install the HALO-LED™ Whole Home In-Duct Air Purifier to provide you with a longterm air quality solution.

As the leader in innovative solutions to indoor air quality problems, it’s no surprise that RGF® has taken air purification to the next level. The HALO-LED™ Whole Home In-Duct Air Purifier uses our new revolutionary REME-LED^® technology to help protect the air for you and your family. REME-LED^® provides a longer product life with improved energy efficiency, zero ozone creation and no mercury (sometimes found in traditional UV lamps).

You get proactive air treatment in your home combining low levels of airborne hydrogen peroxide with ionization to reduce viruses, bacteria, mold spores, dust, dander and pollen. The difference is we now use a revolutionary, energy efficient UV-C LED that turns on and off with your blower and a new washable hybrid ceramic catalyst.

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