Core Wellness Guide

**Houston Homes: AC Mold Fueling Summer Lung Yeast?**

Photograph of Franklin Everett ShawBy Franklin Everett Shaw
January 2, 2026

The air in Houston hangs heavy, thick with humidity, and for many homeowners, that humidity breeds a silent, unseen enemy: mold in their AC systems. It’s more than just a nuisance; it’s a potential health hazard, and the connection between AC mold and lung yeast infections, particularly aspergillosis, is a growing concern. Let’s cut through the confusion and get practical about protecting your health and home.

Is your AC unit a hidden mold factory? It’s a question worth asking, especially if you live in Houston. The warm, humid climate provides the perfect breeding ground for mold spores, which can then circulate throughout your home via your AC system.

Here’s the harsh truth: mold in your AC isn’t just about a musty smell. Certain types of mold, like Aspergillus, are common in Houston and can trigger or worsen respiratory issues.

Aspergillosis, a lung infection caused by Aspergillus mold, can range from mild allergic reactions to severe, invasive disease, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems or pre-existing lung conditions. While AC mold isn’t the sole cause of aspergillosis, it can certainly contribute to the overall mold burden in your environment, increasing your risk.

So, how do you know if your AC is harboring these unwelcome guests? And what can you do about it? Let’s get practical.

Identifying Mold in Your AC System: A Houston Homeowner’s Guide

First, visual inspection is key. Grab a flashlight and carefully examine these areas:

  • The air vents: Look for visible mold growth around the edges of the vents, both inside and outside your home.
  • The evaporator coil: This is located inside your indoor AC unit. You may need to remove an access panel to see it. Look for dark spots or discoloration on the coil. Be extremely careful when accessing this area, as there may be electrical components.
  • The drain pan: This pan collects condensation from the evaporator coil. A clogged drain line can lead to standing water, creating a perfect breeding ground for mold.
  • The air filter: A dirty or moldy air filter is a clear sign of a problem.

Next, trust your nose. A musty, earthy odor coming from your vents is a strong indicator of mold growth, even if you can’t see it.

Finally, consider professional testing. If you suspect mold but can’t visually confirm it, or if you have health concerns, a professional mold test is a good idea. Several Houston-based companies offer mold testing services.

  • Pro-Lab: Offers DIY testing kits and professional lab analysis.
  • SanAir Technologies Laboratory: Provides comprehensive mold testing services for residential and commercial properties.
  • Mold Inspection Sciences: Specializes in mold inspections and testing, offering detailed reports and recommendations.

DIY Mold Remediation: When and How

For small, localized mold growth, you might be able to tackle the problem yourself. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a respirator mask, gloves, and eye protection.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Turn off your AC unit. This prevents the spread of mold spores.
  2. Clean the affected areas with a mold-killing solution. A mixture of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) can be effective, but always test it in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the surface. Alternatively, use a commercially available mold cleaner.
  3. Scrub the moldy surfaces thoroughly. Use a brush or sponge to remove all visible mold.
  4. Rinse the cleaned areas with clean water.
  5. Dry the areas completely. Use a fan or dehumidifier to speed up the drying process. Mold thrives in damp environments, so thorough drying is crucial.
  6. Replace your air filter. Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to capture mold spores and other allergens.

When to Call a Professional: Don’t DIY These Situations

While DIY remediation can be effective for small mold problems, there are times when you absolutely need to call a professional mold remediation company.

  • Extensive mold growth: If the mold covers a large area (more than 10 square feet), it’s best left to the professionals.
  • Mold in hard-to-reach areas: Mold inside your ductwork or behind walls requires specialized equipment and expertise to remove safely.
  • Health concerns: If you or anyone in your family is experiencing health problems that you suspect are related to mold exposure, consult a doctor and a professional mold remediator.
  • Recurring mold problems: If you’ve tried to remove the mold yourself, but it keeps coming back, there’s likely an underlying moisture problem that needs to be addressed by a professional.

Houston-Specific Resources for Mold Remediation

Several reputable mold remediation companies serve the Houston area.

  • AdvantaClean of Houston: Offers mold removal, water damage restoration, and air duct cleaning services.
  • Dry Force: Provides mold remediation, water damage restoration, and fire damage restoration services.
  • PuroClean of Houston: Specializes in mold removal, water damage restoration, and biohazard cleanup.

Always check online reviews and verify that the company is licensed and insured before hiring them.

Preventative Maintenance: Keeping Mold at Bay

The best way to deal with mold is to prevent it from growing in the first place. Here are some preventative maintenance tips for Houston homeowners:

  • Regularly change your air filter. Aim to change it every 1-3 months, depending on the type of filter and the air quality in your home.
  • Keep your AC drain line clear. Pour a cup of vinegar down the drain line every month to prevent clogs.
  • Maintain proper humidity levels in your home. Aim for a humidity level between 30% and 50%. Use a dehumidifier if necessary.
  • Schedule regular AC maintenance. A professional AC technician can inspect your system for potential problems and clean the coils and drain pan.
  • Address water leaks promptly. Even small leaks can create a breeding ground for mold.

The Bottom Line: Is AC Mold Fueling Lung Yeast Infections in Houston?

While a direct causal link between AC mold and aspergillosis is difficult to definitively prove, the connection is undeniable. Mold in your AC system can contribute to the overall mold burden in your home, increasing your exposure to Aspergillus spores and potentially increasing your risk of developing aspergillosis, especially if you have pre-existing respiratory issues or a weakened immune system.

Taking proactive steps to identify and remediate mold in your AC system, along with preventative maintenance, is crucial for protecting your health and ensuring a healthy indoor environment in your Houston home. Don’t wait until you’re experiencing symptoms; take action now to breathe easier and live healthier.

The information provided on Core Wellness Guide is intended for general informational purposes only. The content on this site should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or health regimen. I am not a licensed fitness or health professional. Any exercise or wellness programs or advice you choose to follow are done at your own risk. Core Wellness Guide is not liable for any injuries or damages resulting from the use or misuse of the information on this website. Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase products through these links. However, I only recommend products that I trust and believe will add value to my readers. Results from fitness and health programs may vary depending on individual factors such as age, gender, and fitness level. Testimonials or success stories on this blog are based on individual experiences and do not guarantee the same results for everyone. This blog may contain links to third-party websites, and I am not responsible for their content, privacy policies, or practices.