What are examples of potential fungal growth locations in a ventilation system?
Potential areas for fungal growth are often referred to as amplification sites. Typical examples in an HVAC system would include filters, cooling coils, blowers, condensate pans, water damaged porous liners, dirty, wet ductwork, humidifiers, as well as registers and diffusers where condensation has occurred. Internal insulation materials with a rough porous surface will trap particles and particulates from the air stream which are often hydroscopic. The accumulated dust then absorbs moisture from the air, allowing fungal spores to germinate and grow. The cooling season is when fungi and bacteria can proliferate due to condensation from cooling coil and water in the drain pans.
