What Causes Mildew Around Air Conditioning Vents

Black mold has a distinctive unpleasant musty smell.

What causes mildew around air conditioning vents.

Air conditioner vents can be breeding grounds for black mold. Mold in air ducts most commonly occurs when there is moisture inside the ductwork. If warm and humid air is coming from the attic this can cause condensation to form on the cold air ducts and leak. Mildew can also often grow inside air conditioning vents.

If you live in a wet climate such as a southern state or tropical country it is likely that you ve had to clean mildew off your bathroom walls basement floorboards or even from behind your wallpaper. The black dust may be patchy and difficult to wipe off. As cool air flows through the vents on hot days the moisture in the air can condense inside the air vent. If you notice black dust around your air vents this could be a sign of black mold growing within.

Mildew is a type of fungus that grows in damp and humid areas. You can see the same principle at work when you drink an icy beverage and water beads up on the outside of the glass. Condensation forms in the coils and ducts as cool air circulates through the system creating a habitat for moisture loving mold. In many cases you ll smell it before you can see it.

Common causes of black mold in air vents. You may need more duct or attic insulation in order to solve the problem. Causes of moisture around hvac vents insufficient insulation. If there is black mold growing in your air vents you may notice a musty aroma when you run.

Black dust around air vents.