Mold in Flex Ducting and HVAC Airhandlers
More often we are finding ducting materials known as “Flex Ducting” to indicate for mold growth colonizing on the inner walls of this modern duct material.
Flex ducts are constructed of a plastic or mylar tube reinforced with a wire (much like a slinky toy) and are insulated with a fiberglass outer liner which makes a tube easily connected and extended to supply ducting to vents and return air through manifolds of HVAC systems (Heating, ventilating, air conditioning).
Often these air handler units are situated in attic spaces and are subject to increased dust accumulations
and very humid summer air ambient to the attic. The cold surfaces of the ducts and air handler in contact with the humid air provides a condensation effect which allows for mold spores to colonize in the dusts of these materials.
Flex ducts were first used approximately 30 years ago. As these duct materials have aged, the dust inside becomes a medium for mold. This scenario is now being seen much more often with aging housing and with climate change humidity entering homes. In addition, HVAC air handlers situated inside attics which are not properly insulated are also causing this problem.
Become aware of the types of ducts you have in your household. Attic situated HVAC systems are especially prone.
RTS Enviro can help. We inspect these systems and provide an objective understanding to the condition and best practices regarding mold in flex ducts and HVAC systems. We also provide expert services to repair, replace, and improve the insulation and filtration systems of your HVAC.
