Mid-Atlantic renter says moldy window AC nearly came apart during deep clean

For renters trying to stay cool through a sticky summer, air-conditioning issues can involve much more than weak airflow or steep electric bills. 

That's what one Mid-Atlantic renter described after both of their window AC units became moldy and one nearly came apart during an attempted deep clean.

Here's what to know

Describing an especially humid stretch of weather, the original poster wrote in a Reddit thread in the r/BuyItForLife community that, "Unfortunately our 2 window units for our apartment have gotten moldy. It's been so humid in the Mid-Atlantic summer." 

They explained that one unit "nearly broke" because it was "glued in spots" during disassembly, while the other "just seemed too far gone." The OP then asked, "any suggestions on long lasting ACs that can be easily cleaned?"

Because there may be only "6 more weeks to a couple months of dealing with heat" left, the renter said they were thinking about a portable AC.

Replies in the comments section highlighted a tradeoff between convenience and performance. One commenter warned that "Portables aren't as efficient as window units since the pump is inside the climate envelope," while another said, "Portable ACs are MUCH easier to clean. I've had the same ones for years. Simply remove the filter and that's it."

A third wrote, "Portable AC units are generally less prone to mold as they are much less exposed to outside air. You can further reduce the potential for mold growth by regularly spritzing a bleach solution into their air intakes."

Brand suggestions also appeared in the discussion, including Friedrich and Midea U-shaped window units, though commenters noted that personal experiences can vary.

More background

Ease of cleaning matters, especially in humid climates where condensation can create ideal conditions for mold growth inside AC units.

Moldy air conditioners can be unpleasant to run, difficult to maintain, and expensive to replace. For renters, the problem can be even more complicated, since they may not want to spend heavily on equipment for a temporary living situation.

Portable ACs can also be appealing because they are easier to move and often easier to access for routine cleaning, but they are typically less energy-efficient than window units. That can translate to higher electricity costs during stretches of extreme heat.

Features such as removable filters, accessible drain areas, and clear maintenance instructions may matter just as much as price.

Window units may still be the more efficient choice, especially for people cooling a room for long stretches at a time. Portable units can make sense in some apartments, though that easier access may come with higher energy use.

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