How To Prevent Mold in Your HVAC System During Florida’s Humid August

Florida locals know that the state is notorious for its hot, humid climate with August being one of the least comfortable months. Controlling indoor humidity during the summer can be tricky, leading to excessive mold growth inside your air conditioner if you’re not careful.

Mold spores are everywhere, yet we at Southern Air Heating & Cooling know how to keep their levels in check. Read our guide below to learn how to prevent mold in your HVAC system and ensure great indoor air quality all summer.

The Problem With Mold

Mold often grows in air conditioners in the summer due to temperature variations. When warm air meets cold air, condensation occurs. That moisture creates an ideal environment for mold spores to settle and form colonies.

Though mold spores are always present even in HVAC systems, an overgrowth can cause serious problems. Inhaling spores can trigger allergies, respiratory problems, and other health issues. Mold growth can also create a lingering musty odor and ruin your property’s building materials and personal belongings.

Warning Signs of Mold In Your Florida Home

Sometimes mold colonies can develop inside cooling systems before anybody notices a problem. Yet, if you know what signs to look for, you can take immediate action to prevent major problems like poor indoor air quality, health problems, and property damage.

If you notice one or more of these warning signs, your air conditioner might have a mold problem:

• An unidentifiable musty odor whenever the air conditioner runs
• Excessive condensation around the HVAC unit
• High energy bills without an obvious cause
• Visible black or green specks or fuzzy patches of mold around the air conditioner or vents
• Allergy-like symptoms any time the air conditioner is on

Tips for Preventing Excessive Mold Growth in Your Air Conditioner

Poor HVAC performance can lead to mold. Learn how to prevent mold in your HVAC system with these tips:

• Get Professional HVAC Maintenance Services. Regular inspections in the spring by an experienced technician can uncover leaks and other problems that encourage mold growth.
• Change the Air Filter. Typically, you should change or clean your air filter every three months. Still, it’s better to do it every 30 days to avoid airflow restriction and moisture buildup.
• Adjust the Thermostat. It’s best not to let your air conditioner run continuously. Adjust the thermostat between 72 and 78 degrees with the “auto” function on to let the system cycle on and off to control humidity.
• Install a Dehumidifier. If your Florida home is too humid, invest in a dehumidifier to make indoor moisture levels more reasonable.

Reach Out to Southern Air Heating & Cooling for More Help

We know how to prevent mold in your HVAC system through routine maintenance and expert repairs at Southern Air Heating & Cooling. Our licensed crew has decades of experience serving Palatka, Florida, and the surrounding communities. We consistently deliver comprehensive heating and cooling services with red-carpet customer support.

Let us help prevent mold buildup in your air conditioner despite Florida’s humid summers — call (386) 222-1342 today for service. Learn more now.