How to Safely Remove Mold From Your Window Air Conditioner Unit

Mold shows up in damp places, making your window A/C unit the perfect environment for it to form and thrive. Obviously, a moldy A/C unit is not ideal, especially since it presents serious health risks for anyone who consistently breathes the air it circulates. However, buying a replacement is a costly option. Fortunately, there are ways to safely remove the mold from your window A/C unit. Plus, after you get rid of it, you can make sure it never comes back. 

First of all, how can you tell if your unit is moldy? Well, you can probably see it growing on the body of the unit or inside the filter. You might also smell something musty when you turn it on. Other signs could be less obvious — you or your housemates might experience irregular coughing, sneezing, snoring, irritated eyes, or sore throats. Once you’re determined that you do indeed have a moldy unit, follow the removal steps below. 

Remove the Mold

  1. Turn off and unplug the unit.
  2. Wear a face mask and optional eyewear and gloves. 
  3. Remove the front grille. 
  4. Remove the air filter on the front grille. 
  5. Throw away and replace the filter.
    • You could also choose to soak and wash the filter with laundry detergent and hot water. 
  6. Remove the metal cover behind the front grille; lift directly upward.
  7. Use a maneuverable vacuum cleaner attachment to clean out debris from inside the unit. 
  8. Wipe away any visible mold growth with a simple detergent and water solution.
  9. Use a disinfectant that is registered and approved by theEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA). If you’re concerned about fumes, ensure proper ventilation. 
  10. Using a cloth or a sponge, scrub the moldy areas with warm water.
  11. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse with a damp cloth. 
  12. Let the entire unit dry, reassemble, and plug it back in. 

Prevention 

Now that you’ve removed the mold to the best of your ability, make sure it doesn’t come back. Keep the following tips in mind for mold prevention:

  1. Buy a unit with a humidity control option.
  2. Use auto mode to continuously cycle air.
    • If you leave it off while you’re away from home, the lack of airflow and rising temperatures can lead to moisture build-up and eventually, mold. 
  3. Schedule a regular cleaning with a professional. 

Professional Cleaning

A more intense cleaning is best left to the professionals from Mold Medics. If you’re weary of dealing with mold, we don’t blame you! Give us a call and we can send an expert to perform a thorough inspection, put together a custom plan, and resolve the issue. Call today for a free quote! 

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