Warm, damp, and dark places are ideal conditions for mold growth. Your air conditioner may quickly become a breeding ground for mold without regular servicing. Because mold requires organic matter for its growth, a clogged filter becomes a breeding ground. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning or replacing the filter, will help prevent mold growth inside the air conditioner.
If you haven’t used your air conditioner in a while or if it has a musty odor when switched on, it’s probably a good idea to check it for mold growth. If this is the case, search for the best air conditioner repair near me to get your AC fixed.
Steps to Prevent Mold Growth in Your Air Conditioner
Apart from professional maintenance, the following steps can be taken to help prevent mold growth in your home and AC unit:
Maintain Drain Pans
If the drain pans are not sloped and maintained regularly, standing water will be unable to drain through the deep seal trap and will instead collect in the drain pans. Mold will begin forming in the drain pans because of the water and bacteria present.
Regular Replacement of Air Filters
Mold growth will be prevented from entering your air conditioning unit if you maintain a regular replacement schedule for your air filter. Mold spores are practically present in every area, and there is no way to avoid exposure.
Alternatively, you can prevent them from spreading to unwanted areas. Air filters significantly enhance the quality of air blown through your air conditioning system.
Regularly Clean the Evaporating Coil
Mold grows in dark, damp places that don’t get much air circulation or sunshine. In such a case, the mold on the evaporator coil shouldn’t come as a big surprise. The evaporator coil is enclosed in the air conditioner’s plenum, which remains damp and dark, creating ideal conditions for mold growth.
Cleaning the evaporator coil once a year helps prevent mold from spreading. As a homeowner, you can clean the evaporator coil with a light detergent and warm water, although doing so poses a danger to the delicate aluminum fins lining the coil. At this point, you can search for AC maintenance near me so a technician can safely clean your evaporator coil.
UV Germicidal Lamps
The use of ultraviolet (UV) light is another method for stopping mold formation inside your air conditioner. Clinical studies have shown that UV-C radiation inhibits the development of germs and mold.
The installation of UV germicidal lamps enables the mold-killing properties of UV-C radiation. These lights are typically positioned close to the evaporator coil and other areas where mold grows. Long-term use of UV germicidal lamps not only combats current mold growth but also helps to stop the formation of bacteria, mildew, and mold in the future. Search for AC installation near me to get in touch with an expert that can install UV germicidal lamps.
Keep Unit Running
The air stays stagnant when the AC isn’t working, allowing mold to grow. Even when you are away on vacation, ensure your unit is operational. You can reduce the energy it uses by setting the target temperature higher so it runs less frequently, but you shouldn’t turn it off completely.
Searching for HVAC Contractors Near Me?
Premier Heating and Cooling has got you covered if you are searching for HVAC contractors near me. Our team of experienced technicians pay close attention to each client’s specific wants, goals, and circumstances to provide them with the ideal HVAC system for year-round comfort. When you use Premier Heating and Cooling, you can be certain that you are dealing with a reputable company.
If you find mold on your air conditioning system, call us today to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
