Dealing with mould in your air conditioner? You’re not alone—and it’s definitely not something you want to ignore. Mould signals too much moisture and trapped debris inside your unit, and it can quickly turn into a health headache. Don’t worry, though! Here’s how you can spot, clean, and prevent mould, plus when it’s time to call in the pros.
Why Does Mould Grow in Air Conditioners, Anyway?
Mould loves:
Moisture: Think condensation or standing water in the drip pan.
Neglected filters: Dust and debris are basically mould snacks.
Poor airflow: Damp ductwork or blocked vents can trap moisture.
High humidity: Warm, muggy air gives mould an open invitation.
Hot tip: If you’ve got leaks, blocked drains, or rarely change your filter, you’re rolling out the red carpet for mould. For thorough cleaning and maintenance, consider booking with Advanced Clean Air Port Macquarie.
How to Tell If Your AC Has Mould
Keep an eye (and nose) out for:
Musty smells when you turn on the AC.
Dark spots or fuzzy patches on vents, filters, or inside the unit.
Visible moisture or water pooling around your AC.
Allergy-like symptoms (coughing, itchy eyes, throat irritation) that pop up indoors.
Less airflow or weird humidity spikes in your house.
If you spot any of these, it’s time to act—fast!
DIY: Safe Ways to Clean Mould from Your AC
Ready to roll up your sleeves? Here’s what you do:
- Safety First!
Turn off the AC and unplug it.
Put on gloves, eye protection, and a mask (a respirator is even better).
- Remove the Gunk
Gently brush away any loose mould from coils and panels.
Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to suck up spores (don’t use a regular vacuum—it’ll just blow them around).
- Treat the Area
Mix up 3% hydrogen peroxide or plain white vinegar in a spray bottle (don’t mix them together!).
Spray the mouldy spots and let it sit for several minutes.
Wipe it down, rinse with clean water, and dry everything completely.
- Double-Check
Make sure there’s no standing water left inside.
Run the AC on fan mode (with windows open, if possible) to help everything dry out.
Pro Tip: If you see stubborn patches, repeat the process. And if the mould keeps coming back, don’t keep cleaning—see below!
When You Should Call a Professional
DIY didn’t cut it? Here’s when to call in the experts:
Mould comes back after cleaning.
The smell or moisture doesn’t go away.
You see mould deep inside the ducts or behind panels.
You or anyone in your home has breathing issues or allergies.
A pro will:
Inspect everything (sometimes with air tests or swabs).
Isolate the area, so spores don’t spread.
Use EPA-approved cleaners and special tools.
Make sure your air is safe before you use the AC again.
Bottom line: Don’t mess with persistent mould—get help.
How to Stop Mould From Coming Back
Want to keep mould out for good? Here’s your checklist:
Check humidity: Keep it below 50% inside.
Fix leaks fast: Water is mould’s best friend.
Clean and change filters every 1–3 months.
Clear condensate drains every season.
Keep rooms ventilated: Especially after cooking, showering, or laundry.
Dehumidifier: Great for basements or humid climates.
Document maintenance: Keep track of what you clean, fix, or replace.
Insider tip: Insulate pipes and ducts to prevent condensation, and always use cleaners that are safe for HVAC systems.
The Takeaway
Mould in your air conditioner isn’t just gross—it’s a real health risk. Catch it early, clean carefully, and don’t be afraid to call in the pros if things get out of hand. A little prevention goes a long way to keep your home cool, comfortable, and mould-free!
