Did you know that skipping annual maintenance could mean you miss black mold on AC units? Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating provides expert AC repair services, but regularly scheduled maintenance is a far better way to avoid serious problems along our stretch of Highway 175. We’re passionate about keeping cooling systems in peak condition and mold-free – learn how below.
The Dangers of Black Mold in Your Home
Black mold accumulates quickly. Often, spores emerge when moisture sits on your cooling device for a prolonged period. Beyond harming indoor air quality, long-term black mold exposure can have chronic health ramifications, including worsening respiratory conditions and skin irritation.
Without mold remediation, the HVAC system can blow the spores throughout your property, where they will take root. Over time, spreading mold can cause serious damage to your walls and floors, resulting in expensive repairs.
Look For These Signs Black Mold Grows in Your Air Conditioner
While air conditioner maintenance offers effective HVAC mold prevention, certain conditions can still mean it develops unseen. For example, you might look for the following signs of black mold air conditioner contamination:
Your Air Conditioner Smells Like a Musty Basement
When mold grows anywhere in the house, it emits a smell similar to a musty basement. A basement doesn’t always have mold or mildew, but if you notice the scent in other places, assume that a mold problem needs immediate attention. You can inspect your indoor and outdoor units to pinpoint the mold’s location and visually confirm black mold.
You See Black Spots Forming on the Device
Homeowners can often see black mold on AC units. In the early stages, it may look like tiny black spots on the coils, in the drain pan, or beneath the device. You may also see black dust blow across the room whenever the device’s fan activates – and these are mold spores, not dirt.
You’ve Found Mold in Your HVAC or Vents
It’s helpful to periodically inspect your vents for the presence of mold spores or mildew growth. Often, growth accumulates on vents where the air enters each room, but it also happens deep within the system. Address the issue immediately with mold remediation, and consider hiring an expert to find and eliminate the root source.
You Sense Allergies Increase When the Air Conditioner Activates
Allergies are one of the less severe health risk symptoms that mold produces. It’s often a precursor to more serious issues like long-term respiratory complications. If you sniffle or scratch your skin whenever you turn on the air conditioner, you likely have this fungus lurking inside the unit.
You’ve Noticed Increased Moisture in Some Rooms
Have you noticed a room with higher humidity levels than normal? That room would have an increased vulnerability to mold growth, so stay vigilant for any of the above-mentioned signs.
How To Protect Your Air Conditioner From Mold Growth
So, how can you prevent black mold on AC units? Prioritize the following best practices:
Control Humidity in Your Home
If you’d like to reduce the likelihood of mold growth, keep the humidity in your home between 30% and 50%. You might also consider installing a whole-home dehumidifier for your property. A good balance can hinder the ability of mold spores to reproduce.
Schedule Annual Maintenance
Annual maintenance is the most important thing you can do for your HVAC system. The services of a certified technician can help prevent the conditions that lead to mold growth and inspect the system to catch mold before it gets out of hand. Schedule in early spring, just before you’ll be using your cooling system intensively.
Clean Your Home and Change the Air Filter
The more dust and dirt you have in your home, the more organic particles like mold spores collect. Simply keeping your home vacuumed and wiped down daily can make a big difference. It’s also safer to change your unit’s air filter at least monthly.
Improve Your Ventilation Insulation
Improving airflow in your home is the last way to reduce humidity and remove standing water. Proper insulation can prevent outdoor contaminants from entering your home and settling there. Improving both elements significantly reduces the chances of mold.
Schedule Fast and Reliable Air Conditioner Repairs
Now that you know how to identify and prevent black mold on AC units, contact Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating. We’ll help you avoid DIY AC troubleshooting risks and keep your family safe – all at a competitive price. Residents count on our expertise and consistent professionalism, so contact us today!