What is Toxic Mold?

2/9/2010

Bay Shore, NY   Mold contamination in HVAC systems is not an uncommon occurrence. The areas where relative humidity is higher are likely to have greater occurrences of mold growth than those with low relative humidity. The growth can occur for a variety of reasons including bad condensate pans and drains, insufficient control of the humidity, or holes in the coils. Once the relative humidity reaches around 70%, most species of mold will be able to grow. With some mold species, it takes even less humidity to cause growth. One of the biggest culprits in mold growth is fluctuation in temperature which often acts as a catalyst.

While the amount of mold growth has to be significant to be harmful to a person’s health, people who suffer from allergies are likely to feel the effects of mold more so than people with no allergies. For those with allergies, even a small outbreak could have an impact on their health and well-being. Places like hospitals, where a person’s immune system is already weakened, are naturally more susceptible to those things. Extreme cases of a reaction can result in death. Another side effect of mold exposure is the onset of allergic systems, though these generally subside after leaving the immediate vicinity of the mold.

In some cases, prolonged exposure to toxic mold can lead to more severe reactions and even to long term neurological effects. Significant exposure to other types of mold can lead to respiratory infections.

Because of these dangers, it is essential that HVAC contractors wear respiratory protection when working with HVAC systems where there is visible mold. However, to a person with little or no experience with mold growth, the mold could appear no different than ordinary dust or debris. Mold can also grow on all types of surfaces including, plastic, aluminum and stainless steel, painted surfaces, insulation, and filters.

When working to get rid of mold there is actually an increased likelihood of turning the microbes loose into the air, which poses a great risk for all involved. This is why a only professional with the proper equipment and knowledge should be used to remediate mold and other harmful contaminants. Contact Cunningham Duct Cleaning Company if you live on Long Island or in New York and need duct cleaning services.