If you think your air conditioning system is moldy, you may be tempted to hire a mold remediation service. However, you should first consider how to detect if your air conditioning system is moldy before hiring a service. Here are some tips that can help you detect if your air conditioning unit is infected:
Inspecting air conditioner unit for mold
Mold growth can be a big problem for air conditioners, but you don’t have to be an expert to tell whether there is mold present in your unit. If you notice a musty smell, you should inspect it. Mold spores are microscopic and may not be visible.
First, make sure that the air conditioner is turned off. After it is turned off, remove the front grille cover and the filter. Then, you can inspect the air conditioner unit for mold growth using a flashlight. Look for black, brown or fuzzy stains. You can also check for mildew stains, which are generally white or powdery gray.
Removing air conditioning mold
If you suspect air conditioning mold is growing in your home or office, it may be time to clean it. Using a wet vac will help remove standing water, and it will also prevent airborne particles from spreading. You can also use an EPA-approved disinfectant to kill bacteria and mold. Cleaning your air conditioning unit should include individual parts, including the vents. The owner’s manual may have specific directions.
First, shut off the central air conditioning system. If the mold has spread throughout the ductwork, you will need to hire a professional to clean it. If you have sheet metal ducts, you can do the job yourself, but the process can be expensive and difficult. Also, the EPA recommends against applying surface treatments or biocides to ductwork.
Symptoms of air conditioning mold growth
If you notice any of the following symptoms in your home, you might be experiencing mold growth inside your air conditioning system. In addition to looking unpleasant, mold growth can also pose health risks. It can cause inflammation in the airways and worsen existing respiratory problems. It can also cause skin irritation and allergies. If you are concerned about the presence of mold, you can call an AC service to inspect the air vents.
Mold growth can appear in black, green, or brown colors. You can also notice white stains, which can indicate mildew. While these symptoms often go away once you turn off the AC, they can also lead to other serious health problems, like respiratory problems.
Cost of air conditioning mold removal
Hiring an air conditioning mold removal company is expensive, but you can do it yourself for much less. There are some important things to consider before beginning the process, though. For one thing, mold can be dangerous to your health. You should wear protective clothing and use proper cleaning agents. You should also wear masks and other personal protective equipment to protect your lungs. If the mold problem is only minor, you may be able to remove it yourself with the help of plastic bags. You can then throw the contaminated items in your regular trash.
Another factor to consider when evaluating the cost of air conditioning mold removal is where the mold is growing. A damp basement, for example, is an excellent breeding ground for mold, and it can grow on any surface, including air ducts and drywall. Moreover, this type of mold can affect your health, causing watery eyes, sneezing, and dry skin.
