Prevent mold by performing basic HVAC maintenance, such as checking and cleaning the unit regularly. This includes examining the front grille for any signs of dust or mold and ensuring the interior components are clean and free of debris .
Best way to clean mold growth in the AC units
Steam cleaning kills up to 99.9% of germs and will leave your central air conditioning system not only clean, but sanitized as well, getting rid of all the mold spores and musty odors.
The mold on your air conditioner is typically not that scary black mold, but it can still cause respiratory problems and other symptoms, especially for people with mold allergies, asthma, or other health conditions that compromise immunity. Children and the elderly are also more susceptible to the effects of mold.
Ventilation fans are the best way to prevent mold build up inside a home. Think about it: what happens when a home has a flood? Typically, a water damage expert will be called in and the first thing they do is bring in ventilation fans to dry out the moisture and wetness inside the home.
If the fan is set to the ON position daily, your home will be unable to rid itself of humidity. This, unfortunately, results in dust mites and mold growth. The EPA suggests an indoor humidity level for your home to be between 30%-50%. These levels prevent dust mite and mold breeding from occurring.
Your HVAC air filters can trap mold spores and keep them from being blown into the air as it circulates throughout your home. You should change your filters every 30-90 days, depending on the filter type and quality.
The cost to remove mold from an HVAC system is $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the system type and whether the mold has spread into the ductwork.
Turn off the power to your air conditioner. Locate the evaporator coils, which are typically found inside the indoor unit or air handler. Carefully remove the access panel or cover to expose the coils. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the coils gently.
Window AC units usually have the shortest lifespan, averaging 8 to 10 years. They are often less expensive but may require more frequent replacement.
Black particles from the HVAC system are typically mold, rust or insulation.
Vinegar is a natural and effective solution for killing mold. Its acidic properties help break down mold spores and prevent further growth. To use vinegar, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the affected areas of your air conditioner and let it sit for a few minutes.
"ON" keeps the fan running continuously, which can help with air circulation and filtration but may consume more energy. Choose "AUTO" for energy savings and "ON" if you want constant air circulation or improved air filtration.
Leaving your AC fan set to ON allows the moisture in your home to accumulate and reach mold-growing levels of humidity. To ensure that you and your family stay cool and healthy this summer, keep your AC thermostat fan setting to AUTO.
Most often, a mold problem will be readily identified by a musty smell that becomes obvious in damp environments. Mold also likes to play hide and seek, so if you suspect there is a problem, then check under carpets, behind drywall, inside ductwork, in between bathroom tiles and in other moisture-prone areas.
Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely. Fix plumbing leaks and other water problems as soon as possible. Dry all items completely. Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be thrown away if they become moldy.
Use an EPA-registered disinfectant labeled for HVAC use to clean non-porous surfaces (Ductwork, coils, plenums, pans, etc) of mold, mildew, and other dirt. BIOSPRAY-TOWER ready-to-use disinfectant and mold cleaner will kill and remove mold, mildew, and odor-causing bacteria.
AirDoctor Captures Hidden Mold Spores In Your Home, Helping You Breathe Easier. Mold can grow anywhere there is moisture such as around leaks in roofs, windows, pipes, bathrooms, kitchens or anywhere there has been a flood.
The optimal temperature to discourage mold growth is around 77-78 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, your AC will effectively remove moisture from the air, which is a key factor in mold prevention.
The short answer: Definitely not. (Unless you have manually engaged your outside fan to run constantly, but it shouldn't be running for hours on it's own.) If your HVAC is functioning correctly, it should keep your house cool by cycling on for 15-20 minutes at a time—with distinct pauses in between each cycle.