Can Mold From an Air Conditioner Cause Long-Term Health Problems?

If you’ve been using a recalled Midea air conditioner and recently found mold—or experienced ongoing respiratory issues—you may be asking yourself: Can mold from an AC unit actually cause long-term health problems? The short answer: yes, it can.

Mold is more than just an inconvenience. In the right conditions, it can grow inside your air conditioner and circulate directly into your home. When that happens, especially over long periods of time, it can lead to more than a runny nose or a cough. For some people, the effects can linger or even worsen over time.

Why Air Conditioner Mold Is Especially Dangerous

Unlike mold in the corners of your bathroom or kitchen, mold in an air conditioner often goes unnoticed. It can grow inside the unit where it’s dark and moist—and then be blown into the air every time the unit runs. That means you’re breathing it in regularly without even realizing it.

This kind of chronic exposure is what leads doctors to worry about long-term risks, especially in people with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems. Children and older adults are also more likely to be affected.

Long-Term Health Issues Linked to Mold Exposure

Everyone reacts to mold differently, but here are some of the more serious or ongoing health concerns that can result from prolonged exposure:

• Chronic sinus infections – Persistent inflammation can lead to recurring sinus problems that may require medication or surgery.
• Asthma complications – Mold can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms, potentially leading to emergency room visits or long-term inhaler use.
• Bronchitis or other lung conditions – Breathing mold spores over time can irritate the lungs, especially in people with preexisting conditions.
• Allergic reactions – Repeated exposure can increase sensitivity to mold, dust, and other airborne irritants.
• Fatigue and sleep disruption – Some people report poor sleep, brain fog, or fatigue after long-term mold exposure.
• Skin irritation or rashes – Mold doesn’t always affect just the lungs. In some cases, it can cause persistent skin issues.

How the Midea AC Recall Fits Into This

In June 2025, Midea recalled more than 1.7 million U and U+ window air conditioners sold under names like Frigidaire, Insignia, Mr. Cool, Comfort Aire, and others. The issue? These units may trap water inside the unit due to a design flaw. That stagnant water allows mold to grow and circulate into the home, potentially exposing users for weeks, months, or even years.

This isn’t just about one bad weekend—it’s about exposure that may have been happening every day for years.

When to See a Doctor

If you or someone in your household is dealing with ongoing respiratory symptoms—and you’ve been using one of the recalled AC units—it’s a good idea to get checked out. Be sure to tell your doctor about the potential mold exposure and document any:

• Symptoms (coughing, sneezing, headaches, skin issues)
• Medical visits or prescriptions
• Days missed from work or school

These records could help your doctor—and also be useful if you decide to file a legal claim.

What Can You Do About It?

If you’ve already replaced the unit or accepted a refund, that’s a good start. But keep in mind that a refund doesn’t cover medical bills, time off work, or emotional stress caused by mold-related illness.

That’s why many people are filing claims to seek compensation. A legal claim may help cover:

• Past and future medical costs
• Lost wages
• Mold remediation and property damage
• Pain and suffering

Questions to Ask Yourself:

• Have you or a family member been sick repeatedly while using a Midea AC?
• Did you notice symptoms that improved after removing the unit?
• Have you spent money on doctors, medications, or mold cleanup?

If so, it might be time to talk to someone about your options.

FAQs: Long-Term Health Effects from Mold

Q: Can I get sick from mold even if I don’t have allergies?
A: Yes. Mold can affect anyone—though it may be more severe in those with sensitivities.

Q: What’s the difference between short-term and long-term symptoms?
A: Short-term symptoms include sneezing or congestion. Long-term issues can involve asthma, sinus infections, or chronic fatigue.

Q: Is it too late to file a claim if I’ve been exposed for years?
A: Maybe not. Most states allow 2–4 years from the date you discover the harm—not necessarily from when it began.

Q: What if my doctor didn’t link it to mold?
A: You may still have a case. Our team can help review your records and consult with medical experts.

Q: Can children experience long-term effects too?
A: Absolutely. In fact, children are often more susceptible to respiratory harm from mold.

Final Thoughts

Mold exposure from an air conditioner isn’t just a minor nuisance—it can have serious, lasting consequences. If you’re dealing with chronic symptoms or home damage from a recalled unit, you don’t have to handle it alone.

Call the Law Offices of Jason Turchin at 800-337-7755 or use our live chat to talk with someone today.