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Eliminating Mold In Window Air Conditioning Units

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Mold can hide in the nooks and crannies of your hardwood floors, behind the wallpaper in your bathroom, inside your drywall, and even in the vents of your window air conditioning unit. This means that every time you turn on your window unit, mold spores may be circulated out into the air. Inhaling mold spores can be especially harmful to those with allergies, respiratory problems, and heart disease.

If you see signs of mold in your window unit, you notice a musty smell when your unit is on, or you or your family members get frequent infections, rashes, eye irritation, or breathing problems, call an AC contractor who will inspect and clean your unit. Extensive mold damage may cause breakdowns, which will need to be repaired by a qualified AC contractor. Here are some ways your air conditioner contractor will assess your unit for mold damage and how he or she may get rid of it.

Use The Necessary Supplies

The AC contractor will arrive at your home with the necessary tools and supplies needed to inspect and rid your window unit of mold. These may include facial masks, protective gloves, goggles, a large bucket, liquid dishwashing soap, and bleach.

The contractor may also bring a special scrub brush, tools to remove the grill from the window unit, and a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner. HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air, and HEPA filters are used to filter out harmful particles, including mold spores. A vacuum cleaner crevice tool may also be needed so that the corners of the unit can be cleaned of debris that may contain mold.  

Cleaning Procedure

After the contractor puts on his or her safety goggles, face mask, and gloves, the air conditioner will be unplugged, removed from the window, and moved to an area that is well-ventilated. The contractor will then locate the air filter and remove it. If the filter is the disposable type, it will be replaced with a new one. If the filter is reusable, it will be washed and replaced.

After all visible signs of dirt and debris have been cleaned with the HEPA vacuum, the AC contractor will make a cleaning solution with bleach, hot water, and dish soap. After the solution has been prepared, all surfaces of the unit will be cleaned with the scrub brush. If the grill has mold on it, it will need to soak in a clean bleach solution for a few minutes and then rinsed. 

If you believe your window unit is contaminated with mold, schedule an appointment with an air conditioner contractor. The sooner mold has been eliminated from the unit, the sooner you and your family can enjoy a safer environment. 


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