Do Air Conditioners Eliminate Mold?

At Bowman Heating and Air Conditioning, we’re often asked, “Do air conditioners kill off mold?” This is a common misconception. A properly maintained and functioning air conditioner (AC) can decrease the likelihood of mold growth. This is because it acts as a humidity balancer. But if mold forms, the air conditioner can’t prevent it from growing. This is why it’s important to occasionally examine your ducts for any leakage, which can cause mold. The spores from the mold can circulate through the vents and cause your lungs to become irritated, especially if you suffer from allergies.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), mold exists in nearly every home. It usually doesn’t become a noticeable problem until dampness and/or humidity are introduced. Having a well-serviced air conditioner is a good step towards preventing mold.

Here are some tips to keep mold from forming:

On humid days, keep your air conditioner running when you leave the house.
Though you might be tempted to save on electricity, this is a smart way to keep mold out. By preserving balanced humidity inside, mold won’t have a leg to stand on. Besides humidity, mold also likes air to be stationary. With the ventilation your air conditioner provides, mold growth is less likely. This is well worth the extra money, especially if you have allergies.

If you spot mold on your air conditioner, have a professional clean it.
You may feel like doing it yourself, but it could be a risky move. Mold spores are a health risk. Our technicians at Bowman Heating & Air Conditioning have plenty of experience safely removing mold from equipment. During routine HVAC maintenance checkups, it’s not uncommon to find mold growth on evaporator coils, air handlers, and condensation pans.

Annual or semiannual maintenance inspections are a must.
In addition to any mechanical problems, our team of professionals can spot mold growth and stop it in its tracks. Our examiners are thorough and will fix any leakage found in your air conditioner or ducts. We want our homeowners here in Purvis, MS, to lead healthy and productive lives. You shouldn’t have household allergens standing in your way.

Remember, mold is a silent lurker. Keep your house’s humidity balanced, and be on the lookout for leakage. If you discover a large amount of mold, play it safe, and have a professional take care of it.

We hope you’ll keep these tips handy and reference them as needed. If your air conditioner is moldy, damaged, or in need of inspection, give us a call at 601-582-2336.