Mold is one of the most serious home problems to deal with – and it does not help that it can sneak up on you until the damage is already done. Mold often gets its start in your HVAC system, so here’s what you need to know to stop mold problems in their tracks and improve air quality in Victorville and Hesperia today.
Signs of Mold Issues
Mold can be dangerous because it may not give any sign of growth until it is too late – it could grow through your ducts, crawlspace, or walls without you knowing. However, there is one thing that mold absolutely needs to grow, and that is moisture. The high desert is not known for its rainfall, but any leaks or condensation that create pockets of moisture are a sign that you may have mold problems. Look around your heating and cooling units and in your ductwork for signs of moisture when your thermostat is turned off. If you find any, it is time for a closer look to see if mold has already developed. You also need to get those moisture issues solved pronto, so call up a professional from Elite Climate Control.
Mold Dangers
Mold can create two particularly serious problems in the Victorville and Hesperia area. First, it tends to infest porous surfaces and ruin them, so wood and fabric in particular that has mold on it usually needs to be destroyed to fully remove the mold. Second, some molds can be particularly dangerous to humans, and many can cause a variety of allergic reactions, presenting several different health issues.
Mold Costs
Another problem with mold – and another reason to get mold issues fixed as soon as you can – is that mold issues are often very, very expensive to treat. The process is called mold remediation and goes through several steps that must be performed by qualified commercial professionals. Because insurance companies in the high desert and other climates are backing away from covering mold damage, you will have to pay the costs out of pocket, which can easily exceed several thousand dollars depending on the damage.
Preventing Mold
Clearly it is in your best interest to prevent mold in the first place. Take care of your HVAC system and thermostat with regular maintenance, and remember to wipe off any surfaces with cleaner and soft cloth. For dusty ductwork, hire a professional duct cleaning company like Elite Climate Control. Try to choose cleaners and services that include coatings that will discourage further mold growth in the future. A UV air filter may also be able to kill mold spores as they pass through your system.
