How to Get Rid of Mold and Dust in Home A/C Units

Unplug you're A/C unit from the electrical outlet. Unplugging it will help prevent injury.

Take the filter out of the unit. If you can, replace it with a new one. If not, soak the filter in one cup white vinegar and a bucket of hot water for up to 30 minutes. Pull it out of the water, wipe it down with a washcloth and allow it to air dry.

Use a screwdriver to remove the front grill and metal cover of the unit, following the manufacturer's recommended removal instructions. Keep the screws that you remove in a safe place.

Use a plastic scrub brush and some white vinegar to clean all the dirt, dust and mold from the internal parts of the A/C unit. Use a washcloth and vinegar for the more delicate parts, such as the fan and belt areas. Vinegar helps kill mold and bacteria. If the vinegar doesn't remove all of the gunk from the internal parts, you can use a degreaser. As you wash the parts, wipe them clean with a clean washcloth and allow them to dry thoroughly.

Place the hose attachment on your vacuum and turn it on. Vacuum the front grill slats.

Use a washcloth that is damp with vinegar and wipe down the A/C unit's cover.

Grab the AC unit base and drain the water into the toilet or sink if water has accumulated.

Put the filter, cover and grill back on the unit. Replace the screws and tighten until snug.

Allow the unit to completely air dry for a minimum of a few hours before plugging it back in.