Humidity that window units draw in from outside air doesn't just disappear; it settles in and around the coils that keep the air cold. This moisture added with dirt and dust from the air creates a perfect environment for spores of mold that quickly grow and spread.Jul 1, 2017
What kind of mold grows in window air conditioners?
- Stachybotrys. Commonly referred to as black mold, this type of mold has a greenish-black color. ...
- Fusarium. This type of mold is most common in summer and requires wet conditions to grow. ...
- Acremonium. ...
- Trichoderma. ...
- Alternaria. ...
- Mucor.
How do you keep a window air conditioner from getting moldy?
- Turning on the AC's humidity control setting (if applicable)
- Keeping the AC unit on.
- Keeping the unit free of dust.
- Deep cleaning the AC unit periodically.
- Using white vinegar spray.
Do window air conditioners cause mold?
Because window A/C units are dark and warm on the inside, it's a great mold breeding ground. Preventing this requires basic HVAC maintenance, including checking it regularly and carefully cleaning any sign of water or formed mold.Aug 4, 2017
Are old window air conditioners safe?
Old AC units can be a health threat for people with bronchitis, asthma, or other respiratory problems. ... Many older air conditioners may still use ozone depleting refrigerants that are no longer considered safe (or in some cases legal) for home use.Apr 10, 2018
How do you know if your air conditioner has mold?
- A noticeable musty smell near the air vents in the indoor environment.
- The distinct odor increases when the air is running.
- Patches of black fungi re visible around the vents, evaporator coils, or drip pans.
Why is there black stuff in my window air conditioner?
If you've noticed black stuff coming out of your AC vents, it's most likely either: Soot from candles or your fireplace (the most likely culprit) Mold spores. Dark dust or dirty insulation.Nov 28, 2017
Is mold in window air conditioner dangerous?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advises against using an air conditioner that might have mold in it because the air will blow microscopic mold spores into the room. Those mold spores, too tiny to be seen, are easily inhaled and can make you ill.
How do I get rid of black mold in my window air conditioner?
In a bucket, mix ½ cup bleach, 1 tablespoon mild dish soap, and 3 gallons hot water. Use a cloth, brush, or sponge to soak up the solution. Scrub the moldy areas of your air conditioner well, and clean the air conditioner front grille if it's moldy.Aug 4, 2017
How do you know if your window air conditioner has mold?
Grab a flashlight and inspect the inside of the unit for the signs of mold growth, which may appear as streaks or clusters of brown, black, or greenish stains, some of which may appear fuzzy. Mildew, a common type of mold, produces powdery gray or white stains.Sep 17, 2020