Last Updated on April 16, 2022 by Kravelv
If you have mold in your AC vents, there is a high chance that it is also growing on the inside of your air ducts. Mold growth in this area can lead to health problems such as respiratory issues and allergies. In this article, we will tell you how to clean Molds From your AC vents.
Ways To Clean The Molds From The AC Vents
There are many ways to clean the Molds From your AC vents like a professional HVAC contractor. Let’s go over some of them now.
Method 1
- First, turn off the power supply to an AC vent by unplugging it from its outlet or turning off the breaker switch for that area in your home. This will make sure you do not get shocked or electrocuted during the cleaning process.
- Then, grab a long-handled brush and start scrubbing away at all of the visible areas that have mold on them. This is going to take time if you still see any more signs of mold after this step, which means it needs further attention from an expert in the mold removal industry.
- Next, wipe down all of the areas that you scrubbed with a wet cloth or sponge to remove any remaining dust and debris particles.
- Lastly, use an air compressor to blow out your vents in order to eliminate any traces of harmful spores from building up again on future days.
Method 2
Another way to clean mold from the AC vent include using items like newspapers and a solution of bleach:
- In order to clean the mold from the AC vent, cut out newspaper into strips that are about two inches wide.
- Put on gloves after taking off any jewelry or clothing with metal parts before touching anything in the area around an air conditioner’s vents.
- Use paper towels dampened with bleach to wipe down the area where mold is present.
- Rinse and dry the vent after cleaning it.
What Causes Mold In The AC Vents?
Following are the reasons that can cause mold in the AC vents:
Setting AC Temperature At Too Low
If the air conditioning at your home is set at a very low temperature in order to conserve energy, condensation can form, particularly around ventilation ducts that are close to exterior walls. This moisture should dry out if left alone. But when this does not happen for an extended period of time, mold growth may ensue. To avoid this outcome:
- Turn the AC up to a more comfortable temperature
- Increase airflow with open windows or fans
- Position your outdoor condenser unit away from exterior walls, fences, and other objects that could trap moisture
Though rare, the moisture problem can apply not only to cases where there are no leaks in your ducts but also to conditions where your HVAC ducts have leaks and allow warm air into them. In this case, you will need extensive duct cleaning with mold remediation and should seal up any existing leaks on the airways themselves.
Oversized AC Unit
Oversized AC units can cause mold to build up in your air ducts. Oversize coolers turn off before they have time to dehumidify the air, leading to excess moisture, which builds up and encourages the growth of molds. Oversized AC units for small spaces often lead directly into mold buildup in your rooms or ductwork if you don’t check that it’s sized appropriately from installation on out.
How To Prevent Mold Growth In Your AC?
Following are some of the best ways to prevent mold growth in the AC:
1. Maintain The Drain Pans
Inspect the drain pans for any accumulation of leaves and debris, which can be an indication that mold may develop.
2. Check The Cabinets And Condensate Drains
Clean your cabinet or condensate drains if you find them clogged with dust and other accumulations to prevent water from pooling in these areas.
3. Regularly Inspect The AC Unit
Examine the unit on a regular basis for any accumulation of dust or debris and take corrective action as needed.
4. Clean The Filters Regularly
Filter cleaning is an important part of AC maintenance, which will help keep your system clean and prevent mold growth. Clean filters should be replaced every 30 to 60 days in areas with high levels of airborne particulate matter, such as in a heavily populated urban area.
5. AC Unit Maintenance
Regularly check your air conditioning unit for any signs of wear and tear that might need to be repaired or replaced (needles on the coils are often an indication that maintenance is needed). You can find HVAC services at https://andersonair.com/residential/hvac-maintenance/.
What Are The Health Hazards Of Mold?
Mold growth can have serious health hazards, which is why it should be treated timely. Mold spores can be inhaled into your lungs, which may lead to a fungal infection called hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Symptoms of this type of lung disease include cough with phlegm, fever, and shortness of breath. Some people who get a serious enough case may need to go on an oxygen tank or even have surgery if the infection spreads to their chest.
Mold spores can also cause allergic reactions in those who are sensitive to them. Symptoms of a mold allergy may include itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, wheezing, or shortness of breath for some people. Some individuals with asthma may find that their symptoms worsen when they come into contact with molds.
Mold is also a potential trigger for asthma or allergies in children. Children may be especially sensitive to mold spores because their immune systems are still developing. For this reason, it’s important that parents keep an eye out for mold symptoms and seek medical care if necessary.
Mold spores thrive in moist, damp environments and are often found near water. Mold can be a problem in homes when the humidity levels rise because they will concentrate on surfaces that have moisture, such as carpets or wood floors. If you find mold growing on your air conditioner vents, this is likely due to condensation from refrigerant leaking from the air conditioner and leaving a moist environment for mold to grow.
Cleaning your vents regularly can help prevent this and keep your home clean. Above, we have presented some DIY solutions to clean your AC vent properly and keep it away from the mold.