Got a stubborn black spot that won’t budge? Make a paste of baking soda and a tiny bit of water. Rub it on, let it dry, then vacuum it off. It’s like a gentle sandblaster, but for mold.
And here’s my controversial take: Don’t use bleach. Bleach is harsh, it stinks, and it can corrode the metal coils. Vinegar is safer for the machine and your sinuses. Trust me on this one.
Reassemble Like a Pro
Once everything is dry (wait at least an hour), put the filter back in. Snap the cover on. Plug it back in. Turn it on. Take a deep breath. Does it smell like a clean salad? Good. That’s the vinegar.
Let it run for 20 minutes on “fan only” to dry out the insides completely. This step is critical. Wet AC + warm air = mold’s new year’s party.
How to Clean Mold From AC Units | Complete HVAC Mold Guide