5 Signs You Have a 'Mould in Aircon' Problem

Mould in air conditioner units presents more than just an unpleasant sight or smell; it can pose serious health risks to you and your family. As air circulates through the system, it can spread mould spores throughout your home, potentially leading to respiratory issues and other adverse health consequences.

Understanding the signs of a “mould in aircon” problem is crucial to maintaining a healthy living environment. Let’s take a close look at five common indicators of mould infestation in air conditioners. We’ll also look at how to keep your air conditioner clean so you can prevent mould particles from growing in your AC unit from the get-go.

Why Mould Growth is Cause for Concern

Before we look at the common tell-tale signs of the presence of mould in air conditioners, let’s take a closer look at why it’s such a problem in the first place.

Mould growth in air conditioning systems affects both a person’s health and the efficiency of the unit. When the spores blow through the indoor unit or the ducts and into the air, people breathe them in. This can result in health problems ranging from mild allergies to severe respiratory issues like asthma. Mould infestation can also damage the air conditioning unit. It reduces the working lifespan of the system and often results in expensive repairs that could have been avoided.

If you want to maintain a healthy home environment and keep your air conditioning system working efficiently and effectively, it’s important that you tackle any mould accumulation issues quickly. Here are 5 signs to look out for.

#1 – Visible Mould Growth

The first sign is perhaps the most obvious one – the actual presence of visible mould.

Visible mould growth on or around air conditioning vents, filters, or the unit itself signals a serious mould problem. Mould LOVES damp and dark conditions, and air conditioners provide those conditions in spades. It makes a poorly maintained AC system the prime breeding ground for mould formation and spread.

Be on the lookout for grey circular marks, dark spots or patches in these locations:

• around vents
• on filters
• inside the unit’s casing

These are the common indicators that you’re dealing with a mould in aircon problem and it’s likely blowing spores into your home.

#2 – A Musty Smell

If you don’t see mould, chances are high that you’ll at least smell it. Damp, musty smells are one of the most noticeable signs of a mouldy air conditioner and usually indicate that something isn’t quite right.

Don’t ignore this smell if you pick up on it when your air conditioner is running. The odour suggests mould is growing inside the unit or the ductwork.

Should you detect a musty smell, it’s a clear sign that your air conditioner needs attention to prevent further health risks and maintain a clean indoor environment. Whether it requires a thorough cleaning of your ducts, or a changeover of your filters, it’s best to get on top of it as soon as possible.

#3 – Increased Allergy or Respiratory Issues

Respiratory problems or allergic reactions that seemingly come out of nowhere may indicate mould development in your air conditioning system. Among the most common symptoms are:

• Regular asthma attacks: Mould spores can make conditions worse for people with asthma, often causing more frequent and severe attacks.
• Blocked nose: Constant nasal congestion without a clear cause may be due to mould in your air.
• Watery or itchy eyes: Mould particles in the air can set off these kinds of allergic reactions.
• Skin rashes: Contact with mould spores can result in rashes or other skin irritations.
• Unexplained respiratory issues: Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or coughing could be linked to mould growth in your AC unit.

Should you experience any of these symptoms without there being any obvious reason for them, we strongly recommend getting your air conditioner unit serviced and checked for mould.

#4 – Reduced Cooling Efficiency

An efficient air conditioner is an effective air conditioner. Unfortunately, mould accumulation in your air con can greatly hinder its airflow and reduce its cooling efficiency which means the unit must work harder. This can result in uneven cooling and the system takes longer to reach the desired temperature.

Reduced efficiency doesn’t just add to general indoor discomfort. The increased power consumption also means an increase in energy bills which is the last thing you want. Addressing mould-related efficiency problems early can save money and keep your home comfy throughout the year.

#5 – Excess Moisture Around the Unit

Residual moisture around air conditioning units is a common sign of likely mould growth.

While you should expect some degree of condensation, water pooling or damp spots on nearby surfaces suggest that your unit isn’t draining properly. This can lead to mould forming inside or around the unit, which is certainly not what you want.

To keep mould at bay, it’s important to tackle excess moisture concerns ASAP. Make sure your system is draining as it should, check for any leaks or blockages, and keep the area around your AC dry. Taking these simple steps can help ensure your air conditioner stays mould-free and runs smoothly.

How to Remove Mould from Your Air Conditioner

Once your potential mould problem becomes a confirmed mould problem, conquering that problem should become your priority. Thankfully, removing mould from your air conditioner is a relatively easy process, but it is important to approach it with care.

Start by popping on your face mask and switching off your unit to avoid inhaling harmful spores. Next step is to remove and clean the filters with soapy water. Be sure to clean the cooling coils and any visible mould spots within the unit. After cleaning, allow the components to dry completely before reassembling the aircon.

If you’re dealing with more stubborn mould, we strongly recommend calling a licensed technician. There are other chemical cleaners specifically designed for air conditioners. They can be caustic though, so it’s best left to the experts.

How to Keep Your Air Conditioner Clean and Prevent Mould Growth

Keeping your air conditioner clean is key to maintaining its efficiency and stopping mould and bacteria growth in its tracks. Here are some essential maintenance tips:

• Regularly clean or replace your filters: Dirty air filters are prime for the growth of mould as they easily trap moisture and organic matter.
• Control humidity levels: If you need to, use a dehumidifier to regulate the humidity in your home. Also, make sure that your aircon is able to remove excess moisture.
• Inspect and clean cooling coils: Mould thrives on damp coils, so keep them clean.
• Improve ventilation throughout your home: Sufficient, proper ventilation goes a long way toward preventing moisture build-up.
• Schedule regular professional servicing: A licensed specialist can perform deep cleaning and check for hidden mould.

By following these maintenance steps, you can prevent mould and maintain a healthier, more efficient air conditioning system. One that gives you much better indoor air quality.

The Importance of Using a Licensed Technician

Many of the maintenance tasks we’ve looked at above are relatively simple jobs that fall within the scope of DIY. However, some more advanced maintenance jobs, in particular black mould removal, are best left to a licensed aircon technician.

While regular cleaning certainly helps, professionals have an excellent working knowledge of all the ins and outs of air conditioners so will be able to preserve their lifespan and efficiency. In addition to routine maintenance tasks, they can perform a deep clean to remove hidden mould spores and bacteria.

Removing mould with a licensed technician is better for your air conditioner, and better for you as well.

Keep Your Air Conditioner Mould-Free and Your Home Healthy

Identifying and addressing mould in your air conditioner is essential for maintaining a healthy and comfortable home. Musty smells, visible mould growth, an increase in unexpected health issues, reduced cooling efficiency, and excess moisture are all common signs you have a “mould in aircon” problem.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to seek an air conditioning specialist for help to assess and resolve the issue. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these warning signs can prevent mould growth, ensuring your air con remains safe and efficient for your household.

Please note: Thanks for reading our blog “5 Signs You Have a ‘Mould in Aircon’ Problem”. This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See After Hours Air Conditioning’s Terms & Conditions here.