Homeowners may not wonder if there is mold in their AC unit if the unit produces cool, dry air that feels refreshing and clean. Unaware of the perfect storm of optimal mold growth ingredients their air conditioning units create, many homeowners overlook the regular maintenance and cleaning necessary to prevent the moisture-rich environment where mold thrives. Mold in air conditioners forms when the warm and cold air mix and cause condensation, just like condensation forming on the outside of a cold beverage. The most common places to find mold in AC units or systems are the supply plenum, air vents, flex ducts, and the trunk line. Running for extended periods of time, mold in air conditioners can grow and thrive undetected.
Mold Growth Inside Your Air Conditioner
Unfortunately for many homeowners, by the time they see mold in AC units, it may have already caused damage to the air conditioning unit. Higher energy consumption and utility bills are an indication of poor efficiency and can be caused by hidden mold in air conditioners clogging filters, ducts and vents. Because the air conditioner must work harder to generate and circulate cool air, the strain on the system causes the components to wear out faster, requiring frequent repairs or costly replacements. Mold growth can also lead to structural damage, corrosion, rust and create a fire hazard around the electrical components.
Health Risks of Moldy Air Conditioning
Mold in air conditioners can also create a toxic living environment. Breathing in mold that is continuously circulating in your home will cause respiratory problems with symptoms of exposure mimicking a long-lasting cold: chronic coughing, sneezing, and throat irritation. Those with allergies will develop these symptoms quicker, more severely, and are more susceptible to asthma attacks. The toxins in mold spores can also cause headaches and fatigue, negatively impacting the residents’ overall quality of life. It’s important to have your AC unit checked by a mold remediation expert if you suspect mold in your air conditioner system; prolonged exposure to mold in AC units can lead to more severe issues such as lung infections and compromised immune systems.
Mold Spread Through Ducts and Vents
Mold in AC units can significantly degrade indoor air quality; homeowners generally notice a musty or musky odor as the unit circulates air through the home’s HVAC system. Dark spots around an air vent are a common indicator of mold in air conditioner systems. These mold spores can spread from the AC unit to other areas of the home, contaminating walls, carpets, drapes, furniture and creating a widespread mold problem. Any leaks, cracks or openings in the ventilation ducts can be problematic as mold spores escape into other areas, like a warm, poorly ventilated attic and land on a nutrient rich surface, where they are free to grow and multiply.
AC Maintenance Tips to Stop Mold Growth
Regular maintenance and periodic inspections are essential to prevent mold in air conditioner systems. Below are some recommendations that our mold remediation professionals recommend to eliminate the conditions that mold likes for growth.
- Clean or replace filters every 1-3 months to ensure proper airflow
- Inspect and clean the evaporator and condenser coils annually
- Clear trunk line, drain pan and drain lines of any obstructions annually
- Inspect the plenum box for gaps at the connections and replace it with one that has a higher insulation R-value
- Maintain humidity levels of 60% or below with the AC settings or by using a dehumidifier
- Inspect ductwork annually for leaks, clean out dust residue and add/replace insulation where needed
- Have your entire AC unit professionally serviced annually
Contact MSR Restoration if you find mold in the AC unit
Mold in air conditioning systems can be easily avoided with proper maintenance and regular inspections. High indoor air quality is essential to your quality of life and any necessary repairs in and around your home’s cooling system should be addressed as quickly as possible. If you suspect mold in your air conditioner, it’s important to contact the mold remediation professionals at MSR Restoration. You can breathe easy knowing our team of experts are experienced in removing mold spores from your home and preventing future mold problems.