When you have an AC unit at home, you would likely ask the question, “what kind of mold grows in window air conditioners?” These home items can still get moldy regardless of its price tags.
Molds grow where there is moist so this apparently does not make your window air conditioner an exception. However, there are different types of mold and it is important for you to know what are the kinds that could contaminate your window air conditioner.
Variations Of Mold In Window Air Conditioners
It’s easy to spot a mold when you use your sharp senses. A good indicator of which is the smell. If you find yourself suddenly sneezing or coughing, chances are mold growth is lurking around your home.
The appearance of mold is also a sure fire sign of the infestation. It usually appears in circular spots and different dark colors, with a few of which contain a touch of white or orange. Either way, when you see one, you should get rid of it in an instant.
Fusarium
This type of mold often grows in soils and plants but it can also thrive in places like your window air conditioner. This is because of the stagnant water and high levels of humidity. As such, it is most commonly found during the summer season.
It usually appears in colors ranging from white, yellow, and brown. Like any other types of mold, it also has the potential to trigger an allergic reaction, so make sure to clad yourself in safety gear such as goggles, gloves, and masks.
Stachybotrys
Stachybotrys is the scientific name for black mold. This is often regarded as a toxic type of mold that can trigger the worst respiratory health problems in a person who’s allergic to mold.
It does not only appear in black as what the name suggests. It also comes in a greenish color.
If you want to dive more on how to identify black mold, here is a guide that could offer helpful tips and steps. You can start this little task by inspecting its breeding grounds such as dust, fiberboard, humid and water damaged areas.
Acremonium
This type of mold requires a high level of moisture to grow. Oftentimes, it grows in places such as air conditioning systems where water has been condensed for a long time.
The common denominator it has with other types of mold is it can cause a skin reaction as well. So, if you have cuts and open wounds, be cautious with the presence of such molds as it can enter deeply into the skin.
Alternaria
This differs from other types of mold as it is a combination of nearly 300 mold species. The mold spores form into a seemingly long structure of chain with colors ranging from black, green, and gray.
This is typically known as an outdoor mold but it can grow inside given that the area is dark and damp. Like most molds, it can pose a health risk mainly on eyeballs, mucus membrane, and respiratory tract.
Is Mold In Window Air Conditioners Dangerous?
Professional organizations that deal with mold infestation such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) discourages the use of mold contaminated air conditioners. When the molds affect the indoor air quality, it will eventually lead to other worst case scenarios.
Since mold spores are too tiny to be noticed by the naked eye, it is important to do a regular checkup and cleanup of your window air conditioners. Through this, you can get rid of any potential breeding grounds for mold before they can be accidentally inhaled.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Mold?
If it is likely that your window air conditioners are contaminated by molds, start the inspection by turning off the AC. As long as this is turned on, the air will continue blowing microscopic mold spores that will also lead to a poor quality of air circulating around your home.
Wear safety gears and grab your flashlight. Remove the filter and inspect the inner parts carefully. For a complete guide, you can check out this article on how to clean a window air conditioner mold.
Remember that molds should be treated without a delay whether there are glaring signs of which or they are hiding from plain sight. However, if they come in large amounts, it is better for you to stay away from the moldy area and leave the task to professionals.
Conclusion
Before proceeding into cleaning your moldy ACs, you should know first what kind of mold grows in window air conditioners. Behind their scientific names are good indicators that you must take a mental note of.
Whatever the price tag is in your window air conditioners, you must make sure that it does not collect dust or stagnant water. Remember that you purchased this for air quality and it will not serve its purpose if it becomes moldy.