The Hidden Threat: Mould in Your Air Conditioner Sunshine Coast

August 11, 2025

 

The Hidden Threat: Mould in Your Air Conditioner and Why Regular Cleaning is Essential

On the Sunshine Coast, we enjoy a beautiful subtropical climate—but with that warmth and humidity comes the perfect breeding ground for mould. And unfortunately, your air conditioner—whether ducted or wall-mounted—can be a prime location for it to grow if it’s not regularly cleaned and maintained.

How Mould Forms in Your Air Conditioner

Air conditioners work by drawing warm air over cold coils, which naturally creates condensation. Add our coastal humidity, and you’ve got moisture lingering in parts of your system. Without regular cleaning, this damp environment can quickly become home to mould spores.
These spores can cling to:

  • Filters
  • Evaporator coils
  • Ductwork (in ducted systems)
  • The drip tray and drainage lines

Once mould takes hold, it can spread fast—and every time your AC runs, those spores are blown throughout your home.

Why Mould in Your AC is a Big Deal

Mould in your air conditioning system isn’t just a cleaning issue—it’s a health and comfort problem. It can:

  • Trigger allergies, asthma, and respiratory issues
  • Cause headaches, fatigue, and sinus problems
  • Spread unpleasant, musty odours
  • Reduce the efficiency of your system, making it work harder and cost more to run

The Difference Between Ducted and Wall-Mounted Systems

  • Ducted systems can be more difficult to spot mould in because it often grows deep in the ductwork. By the time you notice musty smells or worsening allergies, it’s usually well-established.
  • Wall-mounted split systems can often show visible signs of mould on the fan blades or inside the indoor unit. Even then, the problem can extend deeper than you can see.

The Importance of Regular Filter Cleaning

Your AC filters are your first line of defence. When they’re clean, they:

  • Capture dust, pollen, and mould spores before they circulate through your home
  • Help maintain air quality
  • Keep your AC running efficiently

We recommend cleaning your filters every 1–3 months depending on use, and more often during summer or if you have pets, allergies, or live near the coast.

Professional Servicing—Not Just a “Nice to Have”

A professional AC clean goes far beyond a quick filter rinse. At The Cool Shop, our technicians:

  • Clean and sanitise coils, fan blades, and drip trays
  • Check for mould growth in hidden areas
  • Ensure drainage is clear so water doesn’t pool
  • Inspect ductwork (for ducted systems) and advise if a deep clean is needed

This not only improves air quality but also extends the life of your unit and keeps it running efficiently—saving you money on energy bills.

Protect Your Health and Your Investment

On the Sunshine Coast, the combination of humidity and regular AC use means cleaning isn’t optional—it’s essential. By staying on top of filter maintenance and booking regular professional servicing, you’ll:

  • Breathe cleaner, healthier air
  • Prevent mould from spreading through your home
  • Reduce the risk of costly repairs or replacements

💡 Tip from The Cool Shop: If you notice a musty smell when you switch on your air conditioner, it’s time to get it checked—before mould spreads further.


Contact Us today for a free quote. Book your Aircon in for a maintenance check today.