Before we jump into the steps you need to take to clean mold from your window AC unit, let’s consider what mold is. Every homeowner faces the issue of molds at some point in their lives. Mold can grow in the cleanest places, resulting in severe problems for your home. Believe it or not, your window AC unit is a breeding ground for mold. As it circulates out of your unit and into your home, it can cause serious health issues for your family.
The most common sign of mold is a musty smell that starts as soon as you turn on your AC unit. You may also notice an allergic reaction, such as sneezing. Additionally, you can sometimes see visible signs of mold on the outside of your unit. However you’ve come to notice the mold, the most critical step is to remove it as fast as possible.
What Tools Do I Need to Clean Mold from My AC Unit?
Before you get ready for the first step, you need to make sure you have the right supplies. Typically, you’ll need the following to clean mold from your AC unit:
- A face mask
- Water
- Quality gloves
- Eyewear protection
- Bleach
- High-grade detergent
- A vacuum cleaner with multiple attachments
- A bucket
- Screwdriver
- Scrubbing brush
- Soap
- Dry Cloths
Mold Removal Tips
Now that you’ve got your equipment make sure you only begin the process in a well-ventilated area. Then, use the following steps to clean your unit:
- Put on all your safety gear, including gloves, mask, and eyewear. Ensure you are fully protected before you begin, as both the mold and the harsh chemicals needed to clean it can create a health risk.
- Unplug the air conditioner from the power source and move it to a safe place that won’t get damaged by cleaning supplies. Again, you should also make sure you are in a well-ventilated area.
- Use a screwdriver if necessary to take off the air conditioner’s grids, grills, and outer body apart so you can get inside the unit.
- Remove the air filter that’s located on the front grill.
- If the filters are washable, use a mild detergent or soap, warm water, and a scrub brush to wash them thoroughly.
- Fill your sink with hot water. Let the cover of the filter soak for a while.
- After about 15 minutes, use a scrub brush and clean the sides of the filter, and cover.
- Rinse everything thoroughly with clean water.
- Use your vacuum and attachment to clean any debris, dirt, or buildup from inside the unit. If you notice mold on the inner parts of your unit, wipe them down with a mixture of bleach and water.
- Use a brush to scrub any moldy areas in and around your air conditioner unit. Let the solution sit on the moldy areas for at least 10 minutes.
- Rinse everything down with clean water and a clean cloth.
- Let the whole unit, grill, and filter dry completely.
- Once you’ve ensured everything is completely dry, put your unit back together.
- Plug the system back into the power source and make sure it runs effectively and all odors have been eliminated.
Contact Southwest HVAC for Your AC Cleaning and Repair Needs
If you need additional assistance with your air conditioning unit, Southwest HVAC is here to help! Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a reliable Torrance HVAC Service.