Atlanta's AC: Is Mold Making Seniors Sicker?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

August 8, 2025

The musty smell hits you the moment you walk into Grandma’s Atlanta bungalow. It’s subtle, almost unnoticeable at first, but it’s there. Grandma, bless her heart, chalks it up to “old house smell,” but you suspect something more sinister: mold, lurking in her AC system, silently impacting her health. Atlanta’s notorious humidity makes it a breeding ground for the stuff, and seniors are particularly vulnerable to its effects.

The link between AC mold and respiratory issues in Atlanta’s senior population is a serious concern. Mold spores, circulated through the AC, can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory problems. For seniors, whose immune systems are often weaker, these issues can be particularly debilitating.

So, what can be done? Let’s dive into practical steps Atlanta residents can take to protect their loved ones.

First, identification is key. You need to determine if mold is actually present. Forget expensive professional inspections for now; let’s start with DIY options.

• Visual Inspection: Carefully examine the visible parts of the AC unit, especially around the vents and cooling coils. Look for dark spots, discoloration, or fuzzy growth. Don’t forget to check the drain pan, which is a prime location for mold. Use a flashlight to get a better view.
• Smell Test: That musty odor is a big clue. If it intensifies when the AC is running, mold is likely present.
• DIY Mold Test Kits: Available at most hardware stores in the Atlanta area (think Home Depot on Cobb Parkway or Lowe’s in Buckhead), these kits allow you to collect samples and send them to a lab for analysis. While not as comprehensive as professional testing, they can provide a good indication of mold presence and type. Important: Follow the instructions carefully to avoid contamination.

Now, let’s say you’ve confirmed the presence of mold. What’s next?

Atlanta offers a range of resources for professional mold remediation. However, before you call in the pros, consider these factors:

• Severity of the Problem: A small amount of surface mold might be manageable with DIY cleaning. However, extensive mold growth, especially within the AC system itself, requires professional intervention.
• Location of the Mold: Mold in easily accessible areas is easier to address. Mold hidden behind walls or within the ductwork requires specialized equipment and expertise.
• Your Health: If you or a family member have severe allergies or respiratory problems, it’s best to leave mold remediation to the professionals.

If you decide to hire a professional, do your research. Look for companies with certifications from organizations like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Get multiple quotes and ask for references. Be wary of companies that offer extremely low prices, as they may cut corners or use ineffective methods. Some reputable Atlanta-area mold remediation companies include AdvantaClean of Buckhead/Midtown and Mold Busters of Atlanta.

But what about preventing mold growth in the first place? This is where proactive strategies come in. Given Atlanta’s humid climate, this is crucial.

• Regular AC Maintenance: Schedule annual AC tune-ups with a qualified technician. They can clean the coils, check the drain pan, and identify potential problems before they escalate.
• Change Air Filters Regularly: This is perhaps the simplest and most effective way to prevent mold growth. Change your air filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and air quality. Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to trap mold spores and other allergens.
• Control Humidity: Use a dehumidifier, especially during the humid summer months. Aim for a humidity level of 30-50%.
• Ensure Proper Ventilation: Open windows and doors regularly to allow fresh air to circulate. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove moisture.
• Clean the Drain Pan: The AC drain pan is a breeding ground for mold. Clean it regularly with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water).
• Consider UV Lights: Installing UV lights in your AC system can help kill mold spores and other microorganisms. However, UV lights are not a substitute for regular maintenance and cleaning.

One common mistake developers make when dealing with AC mold is neglecting the ductwork. Mold can easily grow inside the ducts, spreading spores throughout the house. If you suspect mold in your ductwork, have it professionally inspected and cleaned.

Another pitfall is using the wrong cleaning products. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the AC system or release harmful fumes. Stick to mild detergents or specialized AC coil cleaners.

Let’s consider a real-world scenario: Mrs. Johnson, a 78-year-old resident of Decatur, noticed a persistent cough and wheezing. Her doctor suspected allergies, but the symptoms persisted despite medication. A friend suggested checking her AC unit for mold. Upon inspection, Mrs. Johnson found significant mold growth in the drain pan and around the vents. She hired a professional mold remediation company to clean the AC system and ductwork. Within a few weeks, her cough and wheezing subsided.

This example highlights the importance of being proactive and addressing potential mold problems early. Don’t wait until health problems arise.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your AC drain pan:

1. Turn off the AC unit.
2. Locate the drain pan (usually located near the indoor unit).
3. Remove any standing water from the pan.
4. Scrub the pan with a brush and a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water).
5. Rinse the pan thoroughly with clean water.
6. Pour a cup of bleach solution down the drain line to kill any remaining mold.
7. Replace the drain pan.
8. Turn the AC unit back on.

Remember, preventing mold growth is an ongoing process. Regular maintenance, humidity control, and proper ventilation are essential for maintaining a healthy indoor environment in Atlanta. Don’t underestimate the impact of AC mold on your health, especially if you’re a senior or have respiratory problems. Take action today to protect yourself and your loved ones.