Microbes in your HVAC

Microbes are living microscopic organisms like bacteria, fungi and viruses. At any given time, you actually have trillions of living microbes on and in your body. Many are helpful and aid in food digestion and your immune system. But some are not helpful and may cause you to get sick.

• Bacteria are single cell organisms. Most bacteria are helpful to humans, aiding us to stay healthy, but some can cause infections or other illnesses, like Tuberculosis. A doctor can prescribe antibiotics that kill the bacteria. Well-known examples of bacteria include salmonella and staphylococcus bacteria.
• Fungi can be found almost anywhere. Well-known examples of fungi include mold, yeast, and mushrooms. Fungi are typically found in moist environments. Breathing in fungi spores like mold can be harmful, especially if a person is allergic or has a weakened immune system.
• Viruses are comprised of one or more molecules surrounded by a protein shell. The genetic information the virus needs to reproduce is located inside the protein shell. Well-known examples of viruses include Influenza (The Flu), AIDS, and the common cold. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses but medications can be used to help treat symptoms. Your body’s immune system ultimately has to fight off the virus.

How Does Moisture Create Microbe Problems In Your HVAC?

Since the Raleigh area is a humid environment, your HVAC system will be constantly working to dehumidify the air flowing into your home. If your system is not regularly maintained or is older, it may experience difficulties keeping up with the dehumidification process which could lead to excess moisture build up throughout the system. When moisture is present in an HVAC system, the potential for mold, fungi and mildew exists. A mold infested HVAC system may lead to large scale remediation, related cleanup costs and possible health issues.BLUE II INFORMATIONAL FLYER

What Can Improve My Indoor Air Quality?

• Keep your HVAC system regularly maintained with maintenance check-ups
• Replace your air filters at the first sign of inefficiency
• Install an indoor air quality filtration system
• Get your ducts cleaned
• Consider an antimicrobial fogging treatment