How to Get Rid of Mold From Your HVAC Unit

Mold is a common problem in air conditioner units. You should periodically check the evaporator coils, drip pan, and ductwork to determine whether there is mold and mildew growth or not. There are several DIY methods to clean a little bit of mold. However, you should get in touch with an experienced and trained HVAC contractor if there is an overwhelming amount of mold growth in your Bay Area home or business.

These are a few steps to get rid of mold from your HVAC unit:

1. Choose a suitable cleaning solution

The first step in fixing your mold problem is to find a good mold removal agent. You can choose among these four options if you are looking for an at-home option:

• Mix household detergent and water
• Combine a tbsp of detergent with a cup of water and a half cup of baking soda for your own DIY baking soda detergent solution
• Mix 16 parts water with a part of borax
• Combine 16 parts water a part of bleach for non-porous surfaces

You can also purchase an EPA certified mold removal disinfectant for HVAC use if you don’t mind spending a few extra dollars.

2. Wear protective gear

You are not just protecting yourself from the mold. You need to protect yourself from chemicals in the cleaning solution as well. EPA recommends wearing coveralls, rubber gloves, N95 masks and protective eyewear while cleaning mold from an HVAC unit. This is to prevent harmful allergens and mold spores from harming you.

3. Switch off the HVAC system

You would need to turn off the HVAC system for accessing your cooling and heating units, ducts, evaporator coil, and drip pan. This steps also prevents the spread of cleaning solution fumes and harmful mold spores while cleaning.

4. Vacuum and scrub moldy areas

The next step is to start scrubbing using the cleaning solution. Make sure you apply the solution generously to each area. Use a wet rag, light brush or spray bottle to apply it directly to the mold area. Allow the cleaning solution to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it using circular motions. You could use disposable towels to wipe away any excess solution before vacuuming the area. You may have to repeat the cleaning step more than once if there is a strong mold presence in the area.

5. Get rid of the rags

The next step is to properly bag your mold removal rags. You should double bag the rags with a thick trash bag. Don’t hesitate in dropping in your furnace filters if they are moldy and wet.

6. Mold inhibitor

You can easily control mold and mildew growth using commercial mold inhibitors in your HVAC system. Always look for HVAC approved products that are EPA registered. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions while applying the to all components of your unit.

Keep the Area Clean

Mold removal is not a one-time DIY and forget process. You need to keep an eye inside your HVAC system to make sure it doesn’t grow back. It takes as little as 48 hours for mold to grow. You could have a moisture problem if mold and mildew are repeat problems. Get an HVAC professional to have a look at your system.