What to Do If You Suspect Mold From Your Air Conditioner

If you’ve started coughing more than usual, noticed a musty smell in your home, or found dark spots near your air conditioner, you might be wondering: Is mold coming from my AC unit?

This concern is especially relevant after the June 2025 recall of more than 1.7 million Midea U and U+ window air conditioners—units now known to trap water and promote internal mold growth.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you suspect mold is coming from your air conditioner, including how to check your home, document everything, and protect your legal rights.

Step 1: Turn Off the Air Conditioner

If your AC smells musty, is leaking, or is blowing stale air, turn it off immediately. Continued use may worsen the problem and expose you and your family to mold spores.

Step 2: Inspect the Air Conditioner Unit

Look for signs of moisture or discoloration:

• Green or black mold spots inside the vents
• Pooling water in or under the unit
• A persistent musty smell
• Condensation that doesn’t seem to dry

Use a flashlight and phone camera to check inside the vent grilles. If you see anything suspicious, take multiple photos and short videos for documentation.

Step 3: Check for Mold Throughout Your Home or Apartment

Mold can spread quickly from an AC unit into surrounding areas. Examine the following places:

• Walls and ceilings near the AC
• Curtains, blinds, or nearby furniture
• Carpet or flooring directly below the unit
• Closets or corners of rooms where air has been circulating

Take photos of any visible stains, warping, water damage, or surface discoloration. Even seemingly minor patches can be significant.

Step 4: Inspect and Clean Other Air Vents (If Applicable)

If you use central air or ducted systems in addition to a window unit, inspect the vents and filters. Mold may have spread:

• Through return air grilles
• Into your central system’s ductwork

Consider cleaning or replacing filters immediately and photograph their condition beforehand.

Step 5: Document Everything

Start a file or folder that includes:

• Photos and videos of the air conditioner, surrounding mold, and any affected belongings
• Medical visits or symptoms if you or family members are sick
• Receipts for cleaning supplies, repairs, or new filters
• Communication with your landlord (if renting)

The more evidence you gather, the stronger your legal claim may be.

Step 6: Verify If Your Unit Was Recalled

Midea’s recall affects units sold under names like:

• Frigidaire
• Insignia
• Mr. Cool
• Comfort Aire
• Keystone
• Sea Breeze
• Perfect Aire
• LBG Products
• Midea

To confirm, visit www.MideaUrecall.expertinquiry.com and enter your model number (usually on the front-right side of the unit).

Step 7: Consider Mold Testing or Remediation

If the mold appears extensive, or you’ve had recurring symptoms, hire a professional mold inspector. Costs typically range from $300 to $600, but your legal claim may include reimbursement for this.

Step 8: Contact a Lawyer if You’ve Been Affected

If you’ve experienced any of the following, it’s time to speak to a legal professional:

• Medical symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or sinus infections
• Mold cleanup costs
• Damaged belongings (bedding, couches, electronics)
• Lost income from missed work

You may be eligible for compensation—even if you already accepted a refund or repair kit from Midea.

FAQs: Suspecting Mold from Your Air Conditioner

Q: What does mold smell like from an AC unit?
A: A damp, musty, earthy smell—similar to a basement or old wet towels.

Q: Can I clean the mold myself?
A: Surface mold can be cleaned, but internal or recurring mold may require professional help.

Q: Should I throw away furniture that was near the moldy AC?
A: Not necessarily. But if mold is visible or persistent, document the damage and speak with a legal team.

Q: What kind of doctor should I see if I’m feeling sick?
A: Start with a primary care doctor or allergist. Let them know you suspect mold exposure.

Q: Can I sue if I’m renting and the landlord installed the AC?
A: Possibly. Both the landlord and the manufacturer may be held responsible depending on the situation.

Call the Law Offices of Jason Turchin at 800-337-7755 or start a live chat now. Let us help you take the next step.