Protecting Indoor Air Quality After a Hurricane

Why Hurricanes Create Air Quality Problems

When a hurricane hits Brevard County, the immediate concerns are wind damage and flooding. But even after the storm clears, a hidden threat lingers: compromised indoor air quality. High humidity, standing water, and damaged HVAC systems create a perfect environment for mold, bacteria, and airborne contaminants.

Mold: The Biggest Post-Storm Threat

Mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours of water intrusion. On the Space Coast, where ambient humidity is already high, post-hurricane conditions accelerate this timeline dramatically.

Warning signs of mold growth:

• Musty or earthy odors, especially in enclosed spaces
• Visible discoloration on walls, ceilings, or around vents
• Allergy symptoms that worsen indoors
• Condensation on windows or cold surfaces

Get Your HVAC System Inspected

Your air conditioning system circulates air throughout your entire home. If it was exposed to floodwater, wind-driven rain, or debris, running it without inspection can spread contaminants to every room.

What a post-hurricane HVAC inspection covers:

• Checking for water intrusion in the air handler and ductwork
• Inspecting and replacing contaminated filters
• Cleaning evaporator and condenser coils
• Testing for proper drainage and refrigerant levels
• Evaluating ductwork for storm damage or disconnections

Steps You Can Take Immediately

1. Run dehumidifiers — Get indoor humidity below 60% as quickly as possible
2. Increase ventilation — Open windows when outdoor conditions allow fresh air circulation
3. Replace all air filters — Even if they look clean, they may have captured storm debris
4. Clean hard surfaces — Wipe down walls, floors, and furniture with antimicrobial cleaners
5. Document everything — Take photos of any damage for insurance purposes before cleaning

When to Call a Professional

If your home experienced any flooding, roof leaks, or extended power outages during the storm, have both your HVAC system and your indoor air quality professionally assessed. The cost of inspection is minimal compared to the health risks and remediation costs of unchecked mold growth.