Does Vinegar Kill Mold in an Air Conditioner?

Mold often forms within air conditioning systems and can cause several issues for the unit while drastically reducing your home’s indoor air quality. Although some people recommend using vinegar to eradicate vexing mold colonies from your air conditioner, many people believe it’s just an old wives' tale and can cause more harm than good.

Does vinegar kill mold in an air conditioner? To help you separate fact from fiction, Premier Systems is here to explain if vinegar can eliminate mold from your air conditioner without harming the unit.

Premier Systems is Bozeman, MT’s number-one choice for professional heating and cooling services. If you need a team of experienced AC maintenance experts in Bozeman, MT, to improve your AC unit’s performance, contact Premier Systems.

The Importance of Removing Mold from an Air Conditioner

Mold can take over an air conditioner incredibly quickly and can adversely affect more than just your unit's efficiency. It can pollute your home’s indoor air and cause multiple health issues over time. These health problems include, but aren’t limited to:

• Nasal congestion
• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Red, itchy, and watery eyes
• Throat irritation
• Skin rashes

As mold outbreaks worsen, so do the health problems, jeopardizing your family’s well-being. Some mold varieties, like black mold, can even create mycotoxins that cause more severe medical issues, ranging from lung bleeding to eye infections. That’s why it's vital to remove mold from your air conditioner as soon as possible to protect your family and ensure they remain healthy.

Can Vinegar Kill Mold Within Your Air Conditioner?

So, does vinegar kill mold in an air conditioner? Yes!

Vinegar features both antibacterial and antifungal properties and makes a fantastic DIY mold treatment. It will eradicate mold colonies from your air conditioning system without adversely affecting its performance, structure, or lifespan. 

Simply mix one cup of white vinegar with a gallon of warm water and spray the solution on the mold. Give the solution time to work its magic (about an hour) and brush the remnants out of your air conditioner.

However, since mold is toxic, you must wear protective gear while cleaning the mold out of your AC unit. Always wear gloves, protective eyewear, and a mask to protect yourself from mold and other potentially hazardous substances.

Also, never attempt to remove severe mold outbreaks from your air conditioner. Serious mold problems require professional attention to ensure a safe and effective process. Always hire a professional if mold covers half or more of your unit’s interior.

How To Prevent Mold Growth Within Air Conditioners

Removing mold from an air conditioner can take time and interfere with your daily routine. Fortunately, you can prevent mold from taking hold of your AC unit with a few simple maintenance tasks. Below are some efficient ways to prevent mold growth in your air conditioner.

Replace Your Unit’s Air Filter Regularly

Dirty air filters often act as a food source for mold spores and can promote growth. Regularly replacing your AC unit’s air filter once a month will help diminish mold outbreaks while improving the system’s performance and your indoor air quality.

Clean the Unit

Routinely cleaning your air conditioner will help prevent mold while ensuring optimal efficiency. Remove any debris along the air conditioner’s exterior and wipe up excess moisture and dust within the unit a few times a month. This will ensure optimal airflow while preventing mold colonies.

Have Your Air Conditioner Professionally Serviced Yearly

Hiring a professional HVAC technician at least once a year is one of the best ways to prevent mold outbreaks and ensure your AC operates at its highest efficiency level. Professionals understand all the ins and outs of AC systems and will take measures to prevent moisture and mold growth.

If you have mold inside your air conditioner and need a professional to eliminate the outbreak, contact Premier Systems. We will eliminate the mold and have your unit operating better than ever in no time.

Contact Premier Systems for Unmatched Heating and Cooling Services in Bozeman, MT

Next time you notice mold in your AC unit and wonder, “Does vinegar kill mold in an air conditioner?” contact Premier Systems. We will make your mold problem a thing of the past at a price that fits your budget. Whether you need professional AC maintenance or want to know what causes light flickering when your AC turns on, contact Premier Systems.

Give Premier Systems a call at (406) 300-4258 and receive top-quality HVAC services in Bozeman, MT, today!