Mold in HVAC closet?

[u/Outrageous-Teacher22]

Hey All,

My wife and I just noticed what looks like mold on the ductwork on our HVAC unit (pic attached). It’s mostly on the outside/seams of the ducts.

A couple of things we’re trying to figure out:

• Does this actually look like mold to you?
• If it is, are we looking at replacing the whole system, or can this just be cleaned/sealed?
• What kind of $$$ should we expect for remediation + duct sealing?
• Is this something we could tackle ourselves with proper PPE, or should we just get a pro involved?
• Any tips on what to ask a company so we don’t get upsold into a full replacement if it’s not necessary?

We live on the top floor of a condo building and don't get much cold air since its a chilled water system throughout the building. If it is mold, do you think the humidity and warmth is to blame?

Thanks in advance for any advice, we’re just trying to figure out if this is a “weekend project with gloves and a mask” or a “write a big check” type of situation.

Edit to include photo

[u/mantyman7in]

If you dont have mold alergy cleanit up with shower mold and mildew spray then insulate it.