Hot and damp environments are breeding grounds for mould – a fungus that can accumulate in and spread through your air ducts. Mould inside air ducts can cause a range of problems, including:
- Poor indoor air quality.
- Reduced HVAC efficiency.
- Increased allergy and respiratory issues.
- Damage to ductwork and nearby areas.
- Persistent musty odours.
It’s very important to organise a duct cleaning service to remove mould if and when it begins to circulate. At Mr Duct Cleaning, we have over 35 years of experience with duct cleaning in Melbourne. Mould is one of the most common issues we find inside ducted heating and cooling systems.
This blog post takes a closer look at facts regarding mould, including the various types, causes and signs. It also explains how professional duct cleaners can help you deal with mould and prevent it from growing in the future.
Causes of Mould
Moisture, warm temperatures and poor ventilation create ideal environments for mould to grow. One of the most common causes of mould is having an oversized air conditioning unit that cools a space too quickly. This is because they turn off before dehumidifying the air, which leads to excess moisture that builds up and allows mould to grow. Setting AC units on very low temperatures can also cause mould growth as the cool air from the vents comes into contact with warm air in the room. Moisture in the air condenses on surfaces in and around the ducts, turning them into the perfect habitat for mould. Leaking ducts can also cause the same problem.
Concerned About Mould in Your Air Ducts?
Types of Mould Located During Duct Cleaning in Melbourne
Any effective plan to deal with mould during duct cleaning starts with understanding the type and severity of the mould present. Mould can appear in various forms and colours, including:
- Acremonium – Grows around air vents over months or years as a result of cooling coils and humidifiers, appearing as a powdery substance in various colours such as white and orange
- Alternaria – A common form of mould with a velvet-like texture that shows up in dark green or brown colours, thriving in damp areas and spreading quickly.
- Chaetomium – A brown cotton-like substance that grows in water damaged areas and tends to change colour over time, making it difficult to distinguish from other types of mould.
- Mucor – A highly toxic type of mould commonly found in air conditioning units that can spread to air ducts, necessitating immediate remediation.
- Stachybotrys – A black toxic mould that can cause various health issues and is easy to spot but often goes unnoticed as it forms deep inside air ducts with a good amount of moisture.
Signs of Mould
There are multiple signs and symptoms of mould in and around your air ducts, including:
- A musty and unpleasant odour when your HVAC system is running
- Visible mould in the vicinity of air vents, grilles and drip pans
- Allergy-like symptoms such as congestion, itchy eyes and sneezing
Other health issues that signify the presence of mould can include fever, insomnia, nausea, dizziness and headaches. It’s worth arranging duct cleaning in Melbourne if any of these signs are apparent.
Stop Mould From Circulating Through Your Home
Why Duct Cleaning in Melbourne Is Ideal to Fix Mould Issues?
It’s important to deal with mouldy air ducts as soon as possible to minimise damage, health issues and expenses. If you suspect your air ducts contain mould, avoid running the HVAC unit and get an inspection with experienced duct cleaners in Melbourne. DIY methods are available but generally not recommended, as there are risks involved and they don’t always get the job done fully. Professional duct cleaning services use specialised equipment and proven methods to eliminate mould thoroughly. Some preventative measures can help ensure mould doesn’t grow again, such as maintaining dry environments, repairing water leaks promptly, cleaning ducts regularly and using quality filters.
Book Our Professional Duct Cleaning Services Today
If you need duct cleaning in Melbourne to remove mould from your air ducts, look no further than Mr Duct Cleaning Melbourne for a reliable, efficient, cost-effective and comprehensive service. Our team is equipped with fully insured duct cleaners, and we have served over hundreds of local customers. Get in touch with our experts to book our services or learn more useful facts about mould in air ducts, including the signs and how to deal with it. You can reach us by calling 1300-673-828 or enquiring online to learn more and get a free quote.
FAQs
How often should I book duct cleaning in Melbourne homes?
Most homes benefit from duct cleaning every three to five years. However, Melbourne homes with pets, allergies, recent renovations, or signs of mould may need duct cleaning more often to maintain healthy indoor air quality.
Can mould come back after duct cleaning?
Yes, mould can return if moisture issues are not addressed. Professional duct cleaning services remove existing mould, but controlling humidity, fixing leaks, and using quality filters helps prevent mould from growing again.
Is duct cleaning safe for children and pets?
Professional duct cleaners in Melbourne use specialised equipment and safe cleaning methods designed to protect your household. When done correctly, duct cleaning is safe and can even reduce airborne allergens that affect children and pets.
How long do duct cleaning services usually take?
Most duct cleaning services in Melbourne take between two and four hours, depending on the size of the property, the number of vents, and the condition of the duct system.
Does duct cleaning help with allergies and breathing issues?
Yes, duct cleaning can help reduce dust, mould spores, and allergens that circulate through your home. Many homeowners notice improved air quality and fewer allergy symptoms after professional duct cleaning in Melbourne when they Mr Duct Cleaning.
