Can my AC unit cause mold in my office or home?

11/13/2017 (Permalink)

One of the most current questions that we get from Homeowners and Businesses alike is this: Can my AC cause mold or mildew in my area? 

In the San Diego area we are accustomed to having the AC unit on one day and the heather on the next; especially when it is in transitional whether seasons. When purchasing an AC unit, typically this is a buy that you want to come straight from the store/factory where there has not been any previous owners besides you. Always as if there is a warranty from the manufacturer; 10 years is the most typical warranty age, although, there are terms from 5-15 years.

A properly designed, installed, and maintained air conditioning system shouldn't cause mold or mildew, there are always rare exceptions to the rule but these are the most reported reasons for faulty AC units. However, while an oversize or improperly designed unit can cool your home slightly, it also runs the risk of not removing enough moisture out of the rooms air. Too much moisture in your home can increase the potential for mold growth. Mold spores grow on nearly every surface, we live with mold in the same way we live with bacteria. Just like bacteria though, there are perfect breeding environments that can and do yield a productive crop of molds that spread throughout the home or office setting. At times, these growths are not noticeable until the smell is strong or the appearance has reached an intolerable amount. Improper installation, lack of maintenance, and water drainage issues can also lead to biological growth. If you are someone who runs their AC unit every single day, it is a good rule of thumb to check your unit once every couple months to make sure that all lines are in safe condition, and there are not leaking water marks near the wall or on the adjacent ground.