Have you ever noticed that there is some black stuff around air vents? This strange stuff can be black mold. Mold is common in homes, but black mold is very toxic and can be dangerous. Black mold mainly grows where there is cellulose present. It can cause harm if you inhale it or because of constant exposure.
One of the main reasons why mold grows inside air ducts is moisture. Mold has consequences beyond the air ducts, as it spreads through the air. It can affect the air quality inside your home and even make you sick or cause some allergic reaction. This article will guide you on how to prevent black mold by telling you the signs of black mold in air vents. Air Duct Sanitizing in Buford, GA can help you remove the black mold from your air ducts. It is essential to distinguish between regular mold and black mold before getting into the signs of black mold.
Difference between Black Mold and Regular Mold
You can not identify a type of mold by just looking at it. All the types look almost the same. Black mold is black, as the name suggests. It can also have some shades of green in it. All black molds are not toxic, but they can be allergic. Stachybotrys chartarum is an example of toxic black mold. It contains mycotoxins that are toxic chemicals. These toxic chemicals can spread through the air and then be inhaled by homeowners.
The regular mold is not toxic. It can have harmful consequences but not as bad as the black mold.
Signs of Black Mold in Air Vents
Black Stuff around Air Vents
There will be some black stuff around your air vents. It is like dust and will not be so easy to wipe off. It can be an indication of black mold present in your air ducts.
Musty Smell
Black Mold spreads a strong, musty smell around your home. The smell increases when you turn on your HVAC unit. If you do not remove it, it will spread around the ductwork and will make things worse.
Check for Visible Mold
You can have your air ducts inspected by Air Duct Cleaning in Buford, GA or inspect them yourself. Take a flashlight and open the air vents to check inside.
Coughing and Sneezing
As mentioned above, black mold contains mycotoxins that spread through the air. It causes coughing and sneezing when you inhale it.
Irritation in Eyes, Nose and Throat
Black mold can irritate your eyes, nose and throat. If this happens to you, your air quality has been compromised, and you need to inspect your house.
Allergic Reactions
If you are having allergic reactions such as runny nose, itchy eyes or even rashes, it could be black mold causing it. Another sign is, your allergies only act up when you are inside the house. Once you leave, the allergies also vanish slowly.
Nausea and Fatigue
Nausea, Fatigue and dizziness are some indications of black mold. These problems arise whenever you are inside the home.
Other Serious Reactions
Black mold is toxic and can cause severe reactions. Vomiting, Nose Bleeding and Internal Bleeding are some examples. If your problems are getting worse, consult a doctor.
Steps to Prevent Black Mold
Inspect your Home
The first step is to do a complete inspection of your home. Try to identify the problem of why the mold is growing. It could be a leak in the air ducts or any other problem. If you see the presence of mold, fix it before it spreads. It becomes more toxic after spreading and will cost you more money.
Moisture Prevention
Mold can’t grow without moisture. Make sure the drainage system is working correctly. Dry anything that gets wet, like walls or ceilings. Do not leave wet clothes in the washing machine.
Use Mold Resistant Products
If you are building a new house, you can use mold-resistant products like mold-resistant drywall. The mold-resistant drywall is water-resistant and does not absorb the water.
Indoor Humidity
Indoor humidity is also a significant factor in mold growth. It should be between 30% and 60%. You can measure the humidity by using a moisture meter. Check it more than once a day, as the humidity levels can change at different times. They can also help you find out the problem areas in your home.
Improve Ventilation Indoors
When there is no air circulation inside your home, moisture will start to appear on the walls and windows. Open the windows and doors between the rooms to improve the airflow in your home. Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and the bathroom. Make sure your dryer vent is outside your home.
Plumbing Leaks
If there are any leaks in your home from plumbing or roof, repair them quickly before mold starts to grow.
Mold Inhibitors
Mold inhibitors help in controlling the mold growth. It can be used as a preventative measure by adding it to paints before painting. The paints with inhibitors will prevent mold from growing on the walls.
Also Read: What is the Financial Status of the USA?
