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Tips on How to Clean Mold & Mildew From HVAC Coils

Posted by Tim on 20 Jan 2014 / 3 Comments


coil cleaning applications

A clean, safe and efficient coil.

Keeping coils clean from dirt and debris is one of the most important things in a preventative maintenance program. Keeping them free of biological growth is even more important. 

When coils become dirty with dust and grime, it can limit the air flow through the coils. In an HVAC system, this airflow is where the most dynamic heat exchange occurs. In other words, without proper air flow, your system works harder and in many cases will simply work until it burns itself out. 

dirt, dust and debris can also be the perfect environment for bacteria, mold and mildew to grow. Not only does this cause possible health problems by increasing the mold spores circulating through you indoor air, it can also increase your electricity bills. When air flow is limited by dirt and debris, and you add mold and mildew to the equation, many times the coils begin to develop a biofilm. This bofilm creates a barrier on your coils whereby they can;t exchange heat as efficiently as they used to. 

So, what can you do to clean mold & mildew from HVAC coils?

  1. Make sure you clean coils at least once a year, twice if you are also using your HVAC system for heating. 
  2. If possible, vacuum the coils gently or use a soft brush. This will help remove surface dirt. Make sure not to damage the sensitive fins around the copper coils. 
  3. Wet clean the coils with an alkaline coil cleaner and pressurized water. Many cleaners have acid in them and while it makes coils nice and shiny, it also strip metal off them. Also, “self rinsing” coil cleaners aren’t what they are hyped up to be. they deliver limited cleaning power and require condensation to actually work. 
  4. Once completely cleaned of dirt, make sure to apply a mold inhibitor to the coils and surrounding areas, including the first few feet of duct work. this will provide some safety against regrowth until the next time you clean your coils. 
  5. Apply an HVAC odor control product that will make sure your coils, duct work and home/office area smells great. 

The bottom line is this. Keep up on routine maintenance of your coils and not only will your lungs thank you, so will your wallet. 





3 Comments for Tips on How to Clean Mold & Mildew From HVAC Coils


Tim
1 decade ago


I got some question for your mold removal and prevention product, that would be very appreciated if you can help.

1. What situation should apply the ”BBJ MMR II Mold & Mildew Remover/Disinfectant” ?
2. After ”BBJ Mold Control for Floors and Walls” has done the job, should we apply any solution to prevention the mold grow again?
3. How long can the ”BBJ Mold Control for Floors and Walls” and BBJ Mold Control for HVAC Systems and Air Ducts last for to protect the molded-area?
4. Does ”BBJ MMR II Mold & Mildew Remover/Disinfectant” can potentially causes discolor of upholstery, wall or wall paper?
5. Are they all biodegradeable?
6. Can ”BBJ Mold Control for HVAC Systems and Air Ducts” apply independently without using ”BBJ Power Coil Clean” ?
Cheers,

Tim
T&T Home Detailed Cleaning Center
http://www.tntcleaning.com.hk

    Tim
    1 decade ago


    Hi Tim,

    I know in a later post you mentioned you had put these in the wrong forum, but these are great questions and should be answered. so here goes.

    1. MMR-II is a broad spectrum disinfectant for use in a variety of situations. If this is a flood situation then follow guidelines, like IICRC guidelines that identify what to do. Generally speaking though, all flood water would be considered hazardous and require the application of of a disinfectant. If this is a mold remediation issues, than after you have identified the source of the moisture, application of MMR-II would be done to kill and of the mold on the non porous surface and clean that surface. Please read the label carefully.
    2. BBJ Mold Control for floors and surfaces is applied after you have killed and cleaned with MMR-II. Assuming you have fixed the core issue related to whatever is producing excess moisture, then you apply mold control. This will inhibit the growth of mold for up to two years, but we recommend reviewing the area frequently to identify if more cleaning is required.
    3. They can both control mold for up to two years, but again periodic review of the area and re application may be required.
    4. No, the product does no cause discoloration. However, testing of an inconspicuous area is always advised. Just a note though. you mention upholstery. MMR-II is designed for use on hard, non porous surfaces.
    5. Yes, they are all biodegradable. Information regarding disposal is on the label. Please review carefully.
    6. Yes, it can be applied independently, however we do recommend that the surface be cleaned prior to application.

    Hopefully that provides some detailed answers to your questions.

Juan M. Griffis
1 decade ago


I am so happy to read this. Great prevention is always necessary to the electronic goods…. Checking your HVAC for maintenance is very important specially every summer. This will help us keeping our home in a comfortable temperature……





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