When the appropriate conditions for
growth exist: presence of moisture, nutrients, temperature, etc,
mold begins to reproduce via it’s life cycle.
Hyphal Growth: Hyphae are
the thread-like filamentous cells that release enzymes which degrade
and absorb nutrients from a substrate (ie. organic debris,
cellulose, wood, almost any carbon containing material including
human skin). Upon obtaining it’s nutrition, the hyphae will grow
into a mycelium, the main body of the fungus which is also the
visible portion.
Spore Formation: Spores form
on the ends of some hyphael cells. The formation of spores is
dependent on a variety of environmental factors including light,
oxygen levels, temperature, and nutrient availability.
Spore Dispersal: After the
spores are formed, they are released into the air and carried
elsewhere to begin the process of germination and growth all over
again. Mold spores are highly resistant and durable. They can remain
dormant for years in even hot and dry environments.
Spore Germination: Once the
spore is dispersed to a new area and when the appropriate conditions
exist, moisture and nutrient availability, the spore will begin to
germinate into a new hyphael cell.
All of these
conditions exist inside the HVAC ventilation system in Houston and
the surrounding area. The moisture is obviously provided by the
cooling coils and condensate pans within the air handler units.
But, moisture is also provided by the high levels of humidity that
we have in this area. If the system is not cycling properly and the
cooling coils are dirty, the unit is not removing the humidity and
allowing the moisture to travel down the air distribution system.
Systems that are not running allow the humidity level of the entire
facility to climb, including inside the HVAC system and ductwork.
The source of nutrients is lengthy; construction dust in brand new
systems, dirt and debris entering the system from cheap filters,
improperly sized filters, and dirty filters, and dirt and debris
entering the system from leaks in the system completely bypassing
the filters. DIRTY internally lined air handlers, plenums, risers,
and ductwork provide an ideal environment for this life cycle.
Prevention of
these conditions is the best measure to prevent mold inside the HVAC
system, but proper remediation once it has occurred is recommended
to provide the best indoor air quality. Call Power Vac America
today for a free estimate.
Commercial Air Duct Cleaning
