What kills mold in HVAC ducts?

Author: Lilian Beahan  |  Last update: Thursday, September 11, 2025

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.

What can I spray in my air ducts to kill mold?

DIY Mold Cleaner: The Baking Soda, Detergent, Water Solution, or Using Bleach or Vinegar. One of the most effective ways to remove mold from your air ducts is by using a homemade solution of baking soda, detergent, and water. This mix is efficient and safe for your health and the environment.

How do you get rid of mold in AC ducts?

Bleach: A mixture of one part bleach with 16 parts water can get air vents clean. First, use a HEPA vacuum on the vents, and then soak a rag with the bleach solution and scrub any moldy spots. Carefully remove the vent cover and soak it for a few minutes.

Can mold in air vents make you sick?

Yes, mold in air ducts can potentially make you sick. When mold grows in air ducts, it can release spores and other particles into the air, which can be inhaled by individuals in the building.

Does vinegar kill mold in air vents?

Vinegar can effectively kill mold spores and prevent further mold growth in air ducts. Do not mix vinegar with hydrogen peroxide or bleach. Mixing vinegar with hydrogen peroxide creates a toxic chemical that can irritate your skin and eyes.

MOLD in HVAC System or Ductwork!

How do you kill airborne mold?

To get rid of mold spores, we recommend using air purifiers with:
  1. Mechanical Air Filters.
  2. Electronic Air Filters.
  3. UVGI Cleaners.
  4. Ozone Generators.

Can you spray vinegar in air ducts?

Can I spray vinegar in air ducts? Yes. Vinegar can help break up the dirt in the ductwork so that you can clean them more easily. Use a mix of ¼ cup of vinegar with 2 cups of water in a spray bottle.

How to clean a HVAC duct?

How to Clean Your Air Ducts
  1. Turn Your System Off. Turn off the thermostat to your system. ...
  2. Remove and Clean the Grilles. ...
  3. Loosen the Debris in the Supply Duct. ...
  4. Vacuum Out the Ducts. ...
  5. Replace Your Air Filters. ...
  6. Replace the Grilles and Vent Covers. ...
  7. Reset the Thermostat.

How common is mold in HVAC ducts?

Since the interior of your air ducts is prone to some degree of moisture accumulation, it's not uncommon for mold to develop. And if you've never had professional duct cleaning before, there's a definite chance that hazardous mold is colonizing your HVAC system.

What are signs of mold sickness?

Although symptoms can vary, the most common symptoms seen in people exposed to mold indoors include:
  • Nasal and sinus congestion.
  • Eye irritation, such as itchy, red, watery eyes.
  • Wheezing and difficulty breathing.
  • Cough.
  • Throat irritation.
  • Skin irritation, such as a rash.
  • Headache.

Who cleans mold out of air ducts?

Your local Aire Serv can identify the root cause and stop mold from re-infiltrating your HVAC air ducts with tools like dehumidifiers. Our service professionals are dedicated to keeping your home's air healthy and your HVAC working its best with air duct cleaning, installation, and repair services you can rely on.

Does homeowners insurance cover mold?

Homeowners insurance doesn't usually cover mold damage or removal unless it's the result of a covered peril. If the mold in your residence was caused by something sudden or accidental, such as a bursting pipe or some other covered incident on your policy, you may be protected.

What is used to sanitize air ducts?

To sanitize and disinfect your air ducts, our techs use an EPA-registered disinfectant solution that's called Sporicidin. This is fragrance-free, low-toxic treatment that's presently used in hospitals, medical offices and other healthcare facility environments.

How to remove mold from HVAC ducts?

Use wet vacuums to clean out any standing water. If vacuuming “dry” coils, use a HEPA vacuum. 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.

What spray kills airborne mold?

Use Lysol® Disinfectant Spray

Let it stand for 3 minutes before allowing to air dry. Repeat applications at weekly intervals, or simply when mold and mildew growth appears.

Can I spray microban in my air ducts?

It will not stain or bleach materials or fabrics and will not harm or damage HVAC system components. MICROBAN DISINFECTANT SPRAY PLUS is formulated for use in all kinds of ducts and HVAC components including: • Unlined sheet metal.

How much does it cost to remove mold from air ducts?

Removing mold infestation from air ducts requires the use of professional techniques and tools. The project may cost somewhere between $550 to $2,200, as the cleaners have to be thorough to ensure that no spores are left behind.

Can mold in HVAC make you sick?

Mould can be a cause for concern anywhere in your home, but it's especially worrying when it's being spread around the room by your air conditioner. Mould growing in your air conditioner can have a wide range of effects, ranging from mild symptoms to serious illness.

How to remove mold from an AC unit?

How To Clean Mold From Your AC
  1. Signs You Have Mold Growing in Your AC Unit. ...
  2. Step 1: Turn Off the Power and Unplug the AC Unit. ...
  3. Step 2: Remove the AC Unit's Cover. ...
  4. Step 3: Inspect and Clean the Filter. ...
  5. Step 4: Vacuum and Clean the Cooling Coils. ...
  6. Step 5: Clean the Fan and Other Internal Components.

Is it better to clean ducts or dirty ducts?

Even if your ducts are dirty, cleaning them probably won't provide any measurable benefits. In fact, the little independent research performed on duct cleaning indicates that the process stirs up so much dust that it creates a bigger problem than it solves.

Is Stanley Steemer air duct cleaning worth it?

Clean ducts ensure smoother airflow, reducing energy costs. Extended System Life: Regular cleaning minimizes wear and tear on your HVAC system, potentially saving you substantial money on future repairs or the need for early replacement.

How do I clean my HVAC ducts myself?

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Air Ducts
  1. Step 1: Turn Off the Power. Safety first! ...
  2. Step 2: Remove and Clean Vent Covers. Unscrew your air vents and give them a thorough brushing to remove dirt and dust. ...
  3. Step 3: Loosen Dust in Ducts. ...
  4. Step 4: Vacuum the Ducts. ...
  5. Step 5: Wipe Down the Ducts. ...
  6. Step 6: Clean Up.

Is it OK to spray Lysol in air ducts?

Lysol has a high ethanol alcohol concentration, which means it is highly flammable. When you spray this disinfectant into your HVAC system, it could come into contact with the electric motor and create a flash explosion that could damage your home's ductwork and even create a fire.

What are the symptoms of mold in your air ducts?

Symptoms of Mold in Your Air Ducts
  • Dank odor when the HVAC system is on.
  • Presence of visible mold on the air vents and grilles.
  • Irritation of the respiratory system such as the lungs, nose, and throat.
  • Sneezing and watery eyes.
  • Fever, insomnia, nausea, and headache.

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