How to Clean Mold From an Air Conditioner Like a Pro

Mold inside your air conditioner can lead to odors and health issues, and it can affect the effectiveness of your AC unit too. However, mold can be cleaned away with the right tools and safety equipment.

Here’s how to clean mold from your air conditioner, along with signs to look for and when it’s time to call in the pros.

Signs Your Air Conditioner Has Mold

Mold in your air conditioner can be fairly obvious or it can be surprisingly hidden. Here are a few telltale signs to look out for.

• Visual signs: White, green, yellow, or black stains could be a sign that your AC has mold. Look for these stains around your AC’s coils, insulation liner, or drain pan—anywhere that moisture collects.
• Fuzzy filters: If your AC’s air filter has a fuzzy texture, it could be mold.
• Musty smells: Mold smells stale and pungent. If you notice these odors coming out of your vents shortly after you turn the AC on, you could have mold.
• Allergic reactions: If you or anyone in your household starts to have respiratory symptoms or congestion for seemingly no reason, check your AC for mold. These symptoms could be an allergic reaction to it.

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How to Clean Mold From An Air Conditioner

To clean mold from your air conditioner, you’ll need a mask, gloves, screwdriver, a shop vacuum or a few rags, two spray bottles, and bleach or white vinegar. You may also need a new air filter.

1. Protect Yourself

   Before you begin cleaning mold, make sure you’re wearing the appropriate personal protection—this means putting on a mask and a pair of gloves.

2. Turn Off Your Unit

   If you’re cleaning mold from a portable or window AC unit, unplug it from its outlet. If you’re cleaning mold from a central air conditing system, flip its breaker to completely turn it off.

3. Remove the Grill and Sides

   Use a screwdriver to take off the grill on the front of the unit. Then pop off the top and back of the unit. If you’re unsure of how to do this, check out your air conditioner’s manufacturers’ instructions.

4. Check Out the Filter

   Locate the air filter—if it’s covered in mold, it’s best to immediately dispose of it. Replacement AC air filters are affordable and can be easily purchased at any home improvement store.

5. Clean Out Your Unit

   If there are a lot of leaves or other debris on the bottom or sides of your air conditioner, use a shop vacuum to clean them out. Alternatively, you can use a few damp rags to brush any dirt or debris away.

6. Make Your Cleaning Solution

   You can make a cleaning solution with either bleach or white vinegar. If you’re using bleach, add one cup of it to a gallon of water, then pour it into a spray bottle. You don’t need to dilute vinegar before using it—just pour it directly into a spray bottle.

   You can also use an EPA-registered mold remover or defogger.

7. Spray the Mold

   Spray the cleaning solution over any mold-affected surfaces, and be sure to avoid any electrical parts. Let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes.

8. Finish Up

   Rinse the cleaning solution and the mold away by spraying it with fresh water. Pat dry with a clean cloth if needed.

   Once the machine is fully dry, reassemble your AC unit and turn it back on.

How to Prevent Mold From Growing in Air Conditioner

• Keep your grates and vents clean. Excess dust on these items can make its way back into your air conditioning system, causing clogs that then cause moisture buildups.
• Replace your filters regularly, both the ones in your home and in your unit.
• Run your AC more frequently—this keeps the air moving inside your unit and prevents mold spores from settling in.
• If your home is in an extra-humid environment, consider getting a dehumidifier to reduce the moisture that could eventually end up in your AC unit.

When to Call a Professional

While you can remove mold from your AC all by yourself, it’s not a long-term solution. If mold comes back after your initial cleaning, it’s time to call a professional. Look for local mold removal or restoration services.