Residential AC as the Source of Mold Removal Challenges

When the hot, sticky weather drives your decision to turn on the air conditioning (AC), the last thing you expect is increased exposure to a fungal growth explosion. Experts suggest AC as a way to cool and dehumidify homes in Sandy Springs, with one purpose being to avoid mold removal worries rather than creating concerns. However, when AdvantaClean of Sandy Springs arrives to assess your mold growth and damage remediation needs during the warmer seasons, we closely examine your cooling system and its ability to moderate heat and keep humidity at optimum levels. Drips, leaks, and seepage are, unfortunately, common issues with air conditioners, requiring cleaning, maintenance, and repairs to prevent persistent moisture problems, leading to mold development and the necessity of removal.

AC Water Damage Issues

Air conditioners blow warm interior air over evaporator coils filled with super-chilled refrigerant. The cold coils absorb the heat from the air, and water vapor in that sticky air condenses into droplets. Then fans return cooled air to your living spaces. In theory, the liquid water drips into a pan attached to a condensate drain line that runs outside the indoor unit for central or split AC units. A white PVC or copper pipe near the outdoor part of the unit then evacuates the water. If you use window units, the condensed water flows out from the bottom of the box, so manufacturers advise consumers to tilt the air conditioner to drain out and away from the window sill and the house siding. Unfortunately, the following can happen instead of the expected draining:

  • Central AC units can develop cracks or leaks in the condensate drain line, exposing ducts and surrounding building materials to mold growth and damage risk

  • Clogs in the drain lines of central, split, and window AC units can cause drain pans to fill and overflow, allowing water to seep into structures and fuel fungal spore germination

AC Humidity Issues

Air conditioning is a process where bigger and stronger equipment is not necessarily better. If your home has an AC unit that cools spaces too quickly, the condenser does not have the chance to remove enough moisture before the thermostat shuts off the unit. Cool, damp air then condenses on the walls, windows, and other surfaces. Mold spores are opportunistic and use high humidity conditions to grow and damage organic materials. When relative humidity levels top 60 percent, expect fungi to multiply.

Mold Removal Is One Part of a Remediation Plan

AdvantaClean of Sandy Springs trains our technicians in the mold remediation standards established by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI). Underlying their standards are the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protocols. Our crew assesses the current damage and reasons, including AC challenges, that could contribute to continued mold infestations. We work with you to identify and remedy water damage and excessive humidity related to AC as well as:

  • Containing the current mold damage with barriers and negative air pressure systems

  • Removing the active colonies and irreparably damaged materials by scraping, brushing, and controlled media blasting or demolition, followed by lawful disposal of the mold organisms and moldy items as hazardous waste

  • Wiping down and vacuuming up (with HEPA-filtered machines) debris and residues

  • Applying EPA-registered antimicrobials to inhibit microbial regrowth

AdvantaClean of Sandy Springs prepares our workers to provide prompt and effective mold removal, regardless of the cause. Please contact us at (404) 474-8443 to schedule an assessment and arrange remediation if you suspect mold is present.

Moisture is the primary cause of microbial growth, and AdvantaClean of Sandy Springs is familiar with the many sources of water damage that can occur in homes in our community. Leaking, malfunctioning, or improperly sized air conditioning systems can create unexpected conditions that enhance mold and mildew growth. We help with mold removal and ensure that building materials are dry before our technicians declare that remediation is complete. We also assist our customers in arranging for necessary AC system repairs and considering the "right-sizing" of AC equipment, which helps prevent mold growth from recurring.

Schedule an Appointment or Call (404) 474-8443

To request a service call, please fill out the form below and we will contact you via phone, email or text as soon as possible to confirm an appointment time. You will receive an email confirming your service request. 

*All fields required. By submitting this form, you agree to receive calls, text messages, or emails at the contact information provided. Message rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out at any time. We won’t share your information. Not all locations provide the same services. View our Privacy Policy.

(404) 474-8443
Categories