Our air conditioning unit tends to be out of sight out of mind. However, this can be a dangerous mindset as black mold tends to build up in conditioning units – especially those that sit unused for a while. Black mold can cause serious health issues like sore throats, headaches, and various respiratory symptoms, so you have the right to be concerned. And, inhaling mold spores of any type can result in respiratory disorders. See how black mold can build up in your air conditioner, the signs of black mold, and what you can do if you suspect your AC unit has black mold.
Black Mold Buildup in Air Conditioners
Air conditioning units contain high moisture levels which put them at risk for mold. Most common molds require a wet environment to thrive. Over time, mold can build up in your air conditioning unit – especially over the winter when our AC units tend to sit stagnantly.
Signs of Mold in Your HVAC System
Unfortunately, you may not notice mold in your AC system until its builds to a level where it is easily identifiable. However, a maintenance technician should be able to alert you to possible signs of mold and give advice for removing it.
If you notice any of these signs, it may mean there is back mold in your AC unit:
- Smells: Is your AC unit giving off a musty smell? Most common molds will make the home smell old and unpleasant. If you notice a pungent smell, especially when you run your AC unit, you likely have a mold problem.
- Visible Signs of Mold: Black mold looks just like any other type of mold found around your home, like an uncleaned shower or damp basement. This patchy black residue may or may not wipe off easily.
Suspect your AC unit has mold? Turn off your air conditioner to prevent further mold spores from entering your home and call an experienced technician to inspect your system and provide a treatment plan. In the meantime, you can try and use rags or a wet vacuum to remove visible signs of moisture.
Contact Precision Heating & Air if you Suspect your AC Unit has Black Mold
While you may be able to clean up the visible signs of mold yourself, the Environmental Protection Agency doesn’t recommend it. Doing so could expose yourself and your family to dangerous toxic spores.
The best remedy to getting rid of the black mold is to contact an experienced HVAC repair business.Precision Heating & Air is Atlanta’s premiere heating and cooling company. We can help you avoid costly repairs with continual maintenance, check for the signs of black mold, and keep you and your family safe. We offer scheduled services Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. After-hours support and emergency services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call our experts today at (770) 758-4552.
