Savannah's Sinuses: Oak Pollen Brewing AC Mold?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 3, 2025

The air in Savannah hangs heavy, thick with humidity and, depending on the season, a fine dusting of yellow. That yellow is oak pollen, and it’s more than just an aesthetic nuisance. It’s a harbinger of potential indoor mold problems, especially if you’re relying on your AC to keep cool.

Savannah’s unique climate, coupled with the sheer volume of oak pollen, creates a perfect storm for mold growth inside homes. This isn’t just about unsightly spots; it’s about your health and the air you breathe. Let’s dive into how to tackle this Savannah-specific issue head-on.

First, understand the enemy. The most common mold types flourishing in Savannah homes after a heavy pollen season are Cladosporium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium. These aren’t exotic species; they thrive in warm, humid environments with a ready food source – like oak pollen trapped in your AC system and carpets.

How do you know if you have a problem? Look for these telltale signs:

• A musty odor, especially when the AC is running.
• Visible mold growth on walls, ceilings, or around windows. Check bathrooms and kitchens particularly closely.
• Increased allergy symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes, even when indoors.
• Water stains or discoloration on walls or ceilings, indicating a potential leak that’s feeding mold growth.

Now, let’s get practical. Here’s a step-by-step guide to identifying and remediating mold, Savannah-style:

Step 1: The Detective Work (Inspection)

Don your detective hat and grab a flashlight. Start with the obvious: bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Pay close attention to areas prone to moisture, like under sinks, around toilets, and near washing machines.

Next, inspect your AC system. Remove the vent covers and shine a light inside. Look for visible mold growth on the coils, blower fan, and ductwork. This is a common breeding ground for mold due to the constant moisture and trapped pollen.

Don’t forget the less obvious spots. Check behind furniture, inside closets, and along baseboards. Mold can hide in dark, undisturbed areas.

Step 2: The Pollen Forecast (Prevention)

Savannah’s pollen counts are readily available online. Use resources like the National Allergy Bureau (NAB) or local weather websites like WSAV or WTOC. When pollen counts are high, take preventative measures:

• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Run your AC on recirculate to prevent outside air (and pollen) from entering.
• Change your AC filter more frequently – at least every month during peak pollen season.
• Consider using a HEPA air purifier to remove pollen from the air.

Step 3: The Mold Assault (Remediation)

For small areas of mold growth (less than 10 square feet), you can tackle the problem yourself. For larger infestations, it’s best to call a professional mold remediation company.

Here’s how to handle small-scale mold:

1. Gear Up: Wear gloves, a mask (N-95 or better), and eye protection.
2. Ventilate: Open windows and doors to provide fresh air.
3. Clean: Use a solution of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or a commercially available mold cleaner. Always test the solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the surface.
4. Scrub: Gently scrub the affected area with a brush or sponge.
5. Rinse: Rinse the area with clean water.
6. Dry: Thoroughly dry the area with a clean cloth or dehumidifier.

Savannah-Specific Cleaning Solutions:

Instead of relying solely on bleach, consider these locally sourced alternatives:

• Tea Tree Oil: A natural antifungal agent. Mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle and apply to the affected area.
• Vinegar: Another natural mold killer. White vinegar is readily available and effective.
• Borax: A laundry booster that also inhibits mold growth. Mix borax with water to create a cleaning solution.

Step 4: AC System Deep Clean

Your AC system is a prime suspect in the mold game. Here’s how to clean it:

1. Turn off the power: Safety first!
2. Remove the filter: Dispose of the old filter properly.
3. Clean the coils: Use a coil cleaner specifically designed for AC units. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Clean the blower fan: Carefully remove the blower fan and clean it with a brush and mild detergent.
5. Clean the drain pan: The drain pan collects condensation and can become a breeding ground for mold. Clean it with a bleach solution or a commercially available drain pan cleaner.
6. Replace the filter: Install a new, high-quality filter.
7. Turn the power back on: Run the AC to ensure everything is working properly.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

• Ignoring the source of moisture: Mold needs moisture to grow. If you don’t address the underlying leak or humidity problem, the mold will keep coming back.
• Using the wrong cleaning products: Some cleaning products can actually feed mold growth. Avoid using products that contain sugars or starches.
• Not wearing protective gear: Mold spores can be harmful to your health. Always wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection when cleaning mold.
• Painting over mold: Painting over mold will only hide the problem temporarily. The mold will continue to grow underneath the paint.
• DIY for large infestations: If you have a large mold problem, it’s best to call a professional. They have the equipment and expertise to safely and effectively remove the mold.

Budget-Friendly Strategies:

Mold remediation doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some budget-friendly tips:

• DIY cleaning: As mentioned above, you can clean small areas of mold yourself using readily available cleaning products.
• Regular maintenance: Preventative maintenance is key. Regularly clean your AC system, fix leaks promptly, and control humidity levels.
• Shop around for quotes: If you need to hire a professional, get quotes from multiple companies to ensure you’re getting the best price.
• Check for local resources: Some Savannah organizations offer free or low-cost mold testing and remediation services. Contact the Chatham County Health Department or local community centers for more information.

Living in Savannah means embracing its unique charm, but it also means dealing with its unique challenges. By understanding the connection between oak pollen and indoor mold, and by taking proactive steps to prevent and remediate mold growth, you can breathe easier and enjoy a healthier home. Don’t let mold steal your Savannah serenity.