As you probably remember from grade school science class, where damp conditions exist, there’s also the potential for fungus growth. This is why mushrooms may spring up in your yard after a spring shower or mold spores begin to dot sealed containers of old food in the back of the refrigerator. These types of fungus may not pose you any sort of immediate threat, but mold growth in other areas in your home can become a health hazard to you and your family.
During the cooling process, air conditioners result in ample condensation and moisture. If not maintained properly, your air conditioning unit’s drip pan can be a breeding ground for mold – which can then circulate through your home and lead to 
poor air quality. Luckily, there are a few measures you can take to keep your A/C drip pan free of mold.
First, be sure to replace your air conditioning filter at least once a month – especially during those humid Minnesota summers when your A/C is on full blast. If you do not change the filter regularly, it can become clogged with dirt and bacteria. The spread of bacteria, combined with the moisture, is a surefire recipe for mold.
Secondly, keep your home clean and dust-free. A buildup of dust within your home can also spread bacteria. As mentioned before, the bacteria can mix with the moisture within your air conditioner and lead to mold growth.
Lastly, take a minute or two to examine your drip pan for standing water. In addition to encouraging mold growth, a drainage problem in the drip pan can indicate serious issues within your A/C. Be sure to call a professional immediately.
By following these steps, you can help keep your air conditioner free of mold. However, you should also keep up with routine inspections and regular maintenance. If you have any questions about mold prevention, or any other air conditioner related concerns, contact us at Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning.We’re happy to help!
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Minnesota’s Twin Cities about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about keeping your A/C drip pan free of mold and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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