What Are The Health Effects Of Mold In Your AC?

Poorly ventilated areas can lead to mold. It can be in any environment, particularly in damp spots. However, mold exposure can trigger various types of health conditions. It can lead to allergic conditions, cough, sneezing, nasal congestion, and respiratory infections. When there is repeated exposure, the sensitivity of a person can be affected which can lead to other health disorders. We shall now discuss how to prevent mold in your window air conditioner.

Can Air Conditioners Cause Mold?

Molds in air conditioning (AC) systems refer to fungi that grow within the components of the AC units or the ductwork. These molds thrive in moist environments, which can occur in AC systems due to condensation or humidity.

Air Conditioners can indeed contribute to the development of mold. Here’s how:

1. Moisture Creation: Air conditioners cool air by pulling moisture out of it, which can accumulate as condensation in the system. If this moisture does not adequately drain or evaporate, it creates an ideal environment for mold growth.
2. Poor Ventilation: If an air conditioner is not properly ventilated, moisture can build up in the system. This excess moisture can contribute to mold growth, especially in parts like drip pans and air ducts.
3. Dust and Debris: Air conditioners can also accumulate dust and organic debris in the filters and ducts. When combined with moisture, these materials can serve as a food source for mold.
4. Humidity Control: Inefficient air conditioners may fail to properly regulate humidity levels in a space. High humidity levels can promote mold growth on surfaces throughout the environment, not just within the AC unit itself.

Facts About Molds In The House

• Molds grow commonly in buildings, particularly in moist areas like leaks or on materials such as paper and wood.
• The most typical indoor molds are Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus.
• Molds can enter through open doors, windows, and HVAC systems, and can be carried in on clothing and pets.
• Mold infestations are often visible or detectable by smell.
• Mold exposure can cause symptoms like nasal congestion, eye irritation, and severe respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.
• Organizations like the Institute of Medicine and World Health Organization link some respiratory symptoms and asthma to mold exposure.
• People with allergies, immune suppression, or respiratory diseases are more vulnerable to mold-related health problems.
• To prevent mold, regularly check for water damage, control humidity, fix leaks, and ensure good ventilation.
• Remove mold from surfaces with cleaning products or bleach solutions; large areas may need professional cleaning.
• Routine mold sampling is unnecessary as visual signs and smell are usually adequate; there are no set standards for mold levels.
• While some molds produce toxins, they are generally no more dangerous than common molds. There’s no proven link between mold and rare health conditions like memory loss.

How Does Mold Grow In Windowed AC?

One of the major constituents that lead to mold growth is moisture. A damp environment leads to mold which can affect your health. Water spills and leaks can lead to moisture. Even dust in the AC becomes the most preferable food source of mold. When you turn off the air conditioner while you are out, these settle inside the unit and provide a perfect breeding ground for mold.

As your conditioner draws moisture out of the air, it leads to mold formation. You will have to note that the reproduction of mold is through spores. These spores are not visible to the human eye and are carried through the air. You should never run an air conditioner that has mold inside it.

How To Stop Mold Growth In Window AC?

Here are all the different ways to prevent mold growth in windowed AC.

1. Toggle On The Humidity Control:

The major cause of mold is due to humidity. High humidity can automatically lead to mold growth. It is important to check the humidity level to prevent mess. Unfortunately, not all the window air conditioner come with the feature of humidity control.

You will have to see if the AC unit comes with a humidity setting. If you happen to find one, turn it on and make sure that the humidity level is 30 to 50%. This humidity level prevents mold growth and makes sure that you stay comfortable. When the humidity level exceeds 60%, there will be humid air and it will also encourage mold growth.

2. Keep The AC Unit On:

To prevent mold, you must run the window air conditioner frequently. When you let the unit sit idle for extended periods, it will provide a perfect breeding ground for mold. It primarily happens as there will be no airflow and the temperature rises thereby increasing moisture.

To prevent this, you can turn on the air conditioner in a low setting rather than turning it off completely. Some units come with the feature of auto mode. These models will turn off the temperature after it reaches the desired temperature. It will then turn back automatically once the temperature goes down. This option not only prevents mold but also reduces the cost of energy bills.

3. Keep The Unit Free Of Dust:

You must know that when there is dust, the likelihood of mold is very high. When your air conditioner is dusty, there will be an increased chance of mold growth. Not only outside, but it can also settle on the inside.

You must always keep the AC unit free from dust. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust. Clean carefully so that you don’t miss the crevices and cracks. Also, clean the front cover and the filter. However, you must do it carefully so that there will be no damage to the filter.

4. Deep Clean The Unit When Necessary:

Apart from moisture and dust, what contributes to mold formation is dirt. Even grime can lead to mold in a quick time. An ideal way to prevent this will be by giving a thorough clean to your air conditioner. By deep cleaning the unit including the filter, you can get rid of dirt.

While performing this task, you will have to turn off the air conditioner unit. Try to make a cleaning solution by using dish soap and water. A simple way will be to place the filter under the running water. You will have to wipe down the inside by using a soft cloth. Once done, you can put the unit together by reassembling the parts.

5. Spray Your AC With A White Vinegar Mixture:

One of the best ways to prevent mold growth will be by using a mixture of white vinegar. It not only helps to get rid of mold but also prevents its development. However, make sure that you turn off the unit while performing.

What you will have to do is to mix one part of white vinegar along with water and use a spray bottle. You will have to mist the AC unit with the mixture to prevent mold. Try to dry it or wipe it with a cloth before you intend to turn on the power again.

Can Mold Cause Health Problems?

Yes, mold can cause a variety of health problems, particularly in sensitive individuals or those with existing respiratory conditions. Here are some of the health issues associated with mold exposure:

1. Allergic Reactions: Many people are allergic to mold spores. Exposure can lead to symptoms such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes.
2. Respiratory Problems: Mold exposure can aggravate asthma symptoms for those who have the condition. Even in non-asthmatic individuals, it can cause coughing, wheezing, and respiratory distress.
3. Immune System Impact: People with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, with HIV/AIDS, or transplant patients, are more susceptible to fungal infections caused by mold, which can be more severe and invasive.
4. Severe Reactions: In rare cases, individuals can develop severe reactions to molds like hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a condition that resembles pneumonia and requires medical treatment.
5. Toxic Effects: Certain types of mold produce mycotoxins, toxic substances that can pose serious health risks when inhaled or ingested. Though this is less common in household molds, exposure in large quantities, like in agricultural settings, can be hazardous.

Why Should You Prevent Mold Growth?

• Mold Can Make You Sick: Mold prevention is very important as it can affect your health. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, mold can lead to eye problems, shortness of breath, fever, wheezing, and congestion. However, it can happen depending upon the health of an individual. It can even lead to serious health disorders.
• AC Units Spread Mold Efficiently Through Your Home: No matter where ever you are, mold can be very dangerous. If your AC has mold, the chances of increasing mold to other spaces will be very high. The AC will blow over the house and it will spread mold thereby risking your family’s health.
• Mold Is Difficult To Eradicate: If there is mold in your home AC, it will stay there. Window AC units that have mold need to be replaced. When you witness black mold spots, cleaning the AC will not help.

Conclusion

Mold on your window AC can lead to a serious threat to your health. Not only are you going to risk yourself, but your entire family. Confirm if your window AC has mold and give a thorough cleaning to the unit. When you clean the AC, the chances of mold spreading will be reduced.