Your HVAC system is designed to regulate not only air temperatures in your home but also humidity levels. As such, there is a certain amount of water and condensation that will be present in your system at any given time during operation. When condensation becomes excessive or consistently visible, however, this may be cause for concern. Here are some reasons why your system may be getting over-saturated with condensation.
High Humidity Levels
High indoor humidity levels may contribute to excess furnace condensation through contact with cold surfaces. When humid air comes into contact with a cool surface, the water vapor present in the air condenses into liquid form. As humid air is drawn into your heat exchanger, condensation can lead to water damage to your components.
Presence of Mold
As mold grows in dark, cool places, it releases moisture into the air, allowing condensation to form on various surfaces of your furnace and ductwork. Mold present in the blower chambers of your furnace naturally raises the temperature of that area of your furnace; these higher temperatures will trigger the formation of condensation when they come in contact with cooler air around them. Over time, you’ll see the development of rust and corrosion in your furnace.
Blocked and Restricted Drain Lines
Blocked and restricted drain lines cause furnace condensation by preventing the proper drainage of condensate produced by the furnace during normal operation. If this acidic substance is not properly drained from the furnace and its components, it can cause damage to parts and the surrounding area.
Dirty Filters
A dirty filter can lead to furnace condensation by blocking airflow through your furnace, causing it to work harder than it should. As your system becomes overtaxed, it will generate more heat, causing temperatures inside your furnace to rise. Condensate will form as a byproduct of furnace cycling, and this excessive buildup on parts and components will cause them to eventually stop working.
Leaks in the Ductwork or the Furnace
Leaks and cracks in your furnace and ductwork cause condensation by allowing moist air to enter your system. Temperatures in your system will drop, causing condensation to form droplets that accumulate in your unit. Over time, this excess moisture can lead to the buildup of harmful bacteria and microorganisms that circulate through your system.
Dangers of Excess Furnace Condensation
When your system is dealing with excessive condensation, there are several issues you may experience. In addition to causing rust and corrosion requiring repairs, your system may suffer from the following.
Mold and Mildew Growth
Excess condensation in your HVAC system creates a moist environment that can lead to mold and mildew growth. This can quickly become a major health concern, as mold and mildew are known to have significant consequences for those with allergies and respiratory issues.
Inefficiency
Condensation makes it difficult to regulate air temperatures in your system and in your home. When your system is having trouble reaching the set temperature, it can lead to unproductive cycling and higher-than-normal energy costs.
Poor Indoor Air Quality
The harmful buildup of mold spores, bacteria, and other harmful microorganisms leads to extremely poor air quality, which has a number of health consequences associated with it. People living in homes with poor indoor air quality report symptoms such as skin and eye irritation, respiratory issues, and even autoimmune deficiencies.
Pest Attraction
Pests looking for dark, moist environments may be attracted to your system and ductwork as they look for a place to nest. The harmful and potentially toxic residue they leave behind can cause a number of health complications and contribute to a dirty, unsanitary home.
Unpleasant Odors
Excess moisture circulating through and around your system leads to musty and damp odors. These odors are not only unpleasant but also difficult to remove until the issue of condensation has been resolved.
Quality Furnace Care On Your Terms!
Addressing furnace condensation concerns as soon as they are noticed will prevent potential damage to your system and prevent the growth and buildup of harmful pollutants in your ductwork. Having your unit regularly serviced and inspected by our qualified HVAC professionals is the best line of defense against excessive wear and tear that leads to system failure.
At Unique Heating & Air Conditioning Inc., we proudly serve residents of Northglenn and the surrounding areas. In addition to offering furnace inspections and maintenance, we offer heating system repairs and installations. Our team also offers residential cooling and indoor air quality services, as well as a full range of commercial HVAC services. If you see excess condensation in your system or experience another HVAC problem, don’t delay. Contact us to set up an appointment so that we can get to the bottom of the issue.
