When the VMC is not enough
In a recent survey on an apartment equipped with VMC, widespread mold formations on the surfaces have been detected, without any apparent sign of high humidity. The microbiological analysis has identified the presence of Aspergillus spp. and Wallemia Spp., Two xerophile molds capable of developing in environments with relative humidity of less than 65%.
This case has shown that an VMC system not adequately designed, installed or maintained it can not only fail in the prevention of mold, but even encourage the diffusion.
Xerophile mold: an underestimated risk
Unlike the most common species, xerophile molds do not require high humidity to proliferate. Wallemia spp., For example, is known for its ability to survive in environments with very low availability of water, colonizing dry building materials such as plaster, paints and synthetic coatings. This makes them particularly insidious, because they can develop in apparently healthy environmentsescaping a superficial diagnosis.
Why do mold with an active VMC system form?
If ventilation is in operation, why do fungal contamination phenomena occur? The main causes can be:
1. deranged air flow – An ill -balanced VMC system can create stagnation areas, where the air does not circulate adequately. In these microzones, dust and organic substances accumulate, creating a substrate suitable for the proliferation of mold;
2. contamination of conduct – The channels of the VMC can accumulate dust, organic residues and even fungal spore if they are not clean regularly. In addition, some insulating materials and internal coatings of the conduct can retain residual particulates and humidity, providing an environment in favor of the growth of xerophile mold;
3. Sporting and transport in the air – If the VMC filtration system is not adequate or if maintenance is lacking, the system can become a carrier for the dispersion of the fungal spores in the environments. Instead of eliminating mold, ventilation can contribute to their diffusion, increasing the risk of inhalation and the relative consequences for health.
Alarm signals and prevention strategies
Xerophile molds can colonize surfaces that normally do not arouse suspicions.
Some Signals not to ignore they include:
- presence of persistent dark dust on walls, ceilings or furnishings;
- Anomalous smells similar to wetland or cellar;
- Persistent respiratory discomforts, eye irritation, throat or allergic manifestations.
How to intervene?
To eliminate the root problem, it is essential:
- make one diagnosis microbiological to identify the fungal species present;
- Check the balancing status of the VMC system to avoid stagnation areas;
- check and replace filters adequate to the removal of spores and particulates;
- periodically clean the canalizations of the VMC to prevent accumulations of dust and contaminants.
The importance of design and correct installation
In order for an VMC system to be effective in the prevention of mold, it is essential that it is designed, installed and maintained by qualified personnel. Errors in choosing the air flow, in the arrangement of the vents or in the balance between entry and extraction can compromise the functioning of the system and encourage fungal proliferation.
An VMC system is not a universal solution against mold if not integrated into a wider strategy of humidity and air quality management. Relying on expert professionals in ventilation and biological contaminations is essential to guarantee really healthy and mold -free environments.
The causes of this phenomenon are manifold and concern theInteraction between building materials, air flow dynamics and spore dispersion mechanisms. In addition, modern air quality monitoring strategies offer advanced tools to identify and prevent fungal contamination before it becomes a visible problem.
Xerophile mold and building materials: an insidious combination
Xerophile molds, such as Wallemia SPP. And some species of Aspergillus are distinguished by their ability to survive and proliferate in low humidity conditions. This makes them particularly dangerous in modern buildings, where Synthetic materials and treated surfaces they can favor their settlement.
What materials do xerophile molds favor?
- Synthetic plasters and washable paintings – Some coatings contain ineffective anti -mold additives against xerophile species. In addition, their water -repellent surfaces prevent the evaporation of internal humidity, creating micro -environments in favor of fungal growth.
- Organic insulating materials – Wood fiber panels, sheep wool and other natural insulators can absorb humidity without showing obvious signs, becoming ideal substrates for the proliferation of mold.
- Polimeric -based gaskets and sealing sealing – The elastomeric materials used to seal fixtures and junctions can retain organic particles and humidity, creating niches that are difficult to monitor.
Air flow and dispersion of the spores: when the VMC becomes a problem
An VMC system should guarantee a uniform air exchangeavoiding stagnation and reducing the concentration of pollutants. However, if poorly designed or managed, it can encourage the spread of xerophile molds instead of contrasting them.
The main ones errors in the design of the VMC:
- unbalanced air flow;
- If the coupling and extraction courses are not well calibrated, stagnation microzone are created in which the spores can deposit and proliferate;
- contaminated channels;
- The accumulation of dust and organic residues within the conduct promotes fungal growth. If you do not filter adequately, the spores can be transported throughout the building;
- inadequate or non -maintenance filters;
- An ineffective filtration system does not block small spores, which are reintroduced in the environments, increasing the risk of inhalation.
Advanced monitoring of air quality: prevention starts from the data
Modern environmental monitoring technologies allow to detect early conditions for the growth of mold, intervening before the problem becomes visible.
The Tools and monitoring strategies I am:
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Conclusions: the correct design is essential
A Effective VMC system It is not limited to reciprocating the air, but it must be designed and maintained with rigorous criteria to prevent the spread of mold. The choice of building materials, the adjustment of air flows and the adoption of advanced monitoring tools are key elements to guarantee really healthy environments.
Rely on Professionals specialized in Biological Contaminations and Contaminations It is essential to avoid design and laying errors that could transform VMC from solution to problem. Only one Conscious management and continuous monitoring They can guarantee the highest level of protection from the proliferation of xerophile molds.
