Even if you invest in the best window air conditioner, the unit can develop mold if it’s unused for an extended period of time. Over the winter months, for example, dust can collect inside the vents. With the right amount of humidity, mold can begin to grow, feeding on particles of dust.
How do I keep black mold from growing in my window air conditioner?
- Step 1: Keep an eye on humidity. Humidity is a natural cause of moisture which, in turn, is the main cause of mold. …
- Step 2: Don’t let your air conditioner idle. …
- Step 3: Remove dust from the unit. …
- Step 4: Remove dust from the filter. …
- Step 5: Regularly clean your air conditioner.
- Coughing.
- Postnasal drip.
- Sneezing.
- Dry, scaly skin.
- Itchy eyes, nose, or throat.
- Nasal congestion.
What is the 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.
How do I get rid of black mold in my air conditioner?
Fill a plastic bucket with a few gallons of hot water and about 1/2 cup of household bleach. Saturate a scrubbing sponge in the bleach solution and use it to wipe the inside surfaces of the AC unit, removing all traces of visible mold. The bleach will kill residual mold spores.
Can black mold grow in window air conditioners?
Under most circumstances, air conditioners and HVAC ducts are not hospitable places for mold to grow. Sheet metal ducts and styrofoam channels inside window units do not offer mold a food source. However, dust often collects in these places, which can allow mold to grow.
Can you clean mold out of a 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.
Can I spray Lysol in my window air conditioner?
For window units
Knowing how to clean an air conditioner that sits in the window is just as money-saving as cleaning your own central air system. Apply Lysol® All-Purpose Cleaner to the coils on the back of the unit and scrub with a stiff brush.
How do you get rid of mold spores in the air?
The only way to directly kill mold spores in the air is to use an air purifier. For best results, place purifiers in each room of your house to ensure maximum efficiency in killing the spores. You can get a quality air purifier at any home improvement store and at most mass retailers.
What are the symptoms of black mold exposure?
Symptoms of Black Mold Exposure
What does black mold look like in air conditioner?
One of the first signs that black mold is growing in your air vents is a distinct musty, mildew-like smell in specific rooms or even throughout your entire home. You may also be able to see the presence of mold around drip pans, air ducts, and within intake vents.
