How Mold Gets Into Your Air Conditioner

Is your air conditioner making you sick?

Your air conditioner is designed to create cool air and help your home remain at a comfortable temperature. Unfortunately, many air conditioners across the Front Range aren’t operating the way they should, and are creating a lot more than cooled air.

How Mold Gets Into Your Air Conditioner

Mold is found everywhere and will grow on any substance where moisture is present. Even though Colorado is a dry climate, it still has a high rate of mold growth, especially in the summer. The hot days of summer often turn into thunderstorms that can bring inches of rain at a time. The weather can change so rapidly, we move from air conditioning to heat and back again, all in one day. And where there’s moisture, mold has the opportunity to grow.

Of course, there are plenty of times when neither the AC or the furnace is running. Water droplets can collect in the ducts or air handler. Instead of evaporating, the water sits there. It can find its way into built up dust, skin, pollen, and other residue already in the system. It’s the perfect place for mold spores to grow.

How Do You Check For Mold In An Air Conditioner

Mold in your air conditioner is more common than you think. That’s why it’s important as a homeowner to learn how to check for potential problems. Watch for:

• Patches of black fungi accumulating around your vents and registers, or around evaporator coils or the drip pans
• A distinct odor while the air conditioner is running
• A noticeable smell near vents and registers
• Health issues that linger, such as nose, eyes, or throat conditions, or sinus infections

When you schedule your annual maintenance visit, one of our HVAC technicians will test for mold and look for signs throughout your HVAC system. Keep in mind that it can happen quickly; if you have a concern before your scheduled maintenance visit, don’t wait. Give us a call.

How Do You Prevent Mold Growth In An Air Conditioner

Your air conditioner and moisture go hand in hand. There will never be a 100 percent guarantee that mold won’t form, no matter how careful you are. That said, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of mold forming.

• Replace your air filter regularly – at least once a quarter, once a month in a busy household
• If you’ve had trouble before, consider installing a filter specialized for mold control
• Ensure air ducts are properly sealed and insulated
• Add a purifying system to your HVAC to improve air quality
• Have your air conditioner checked each year
• If mold is detected, have your ducts thoroughly cleaned

Mold in your air conditioner can cause serious health implications for you and your family. Stay ahead of potential situations by scheduling your annual maintenance visit now.