Why Is There Styrofoam Inside Air Conditioners?

Share This Guide

Window air conditioners are a common household appliance during the summer months. Most people are unaware of the inner workings of their window AC unit and are surprised when they find styrofoam inside. 

The styrofoam in an AC is used as insulation to keep the cool air inside and the warm air outside. Without the styrofoam, the window AC unit would not be able to function correctly.

Why Is There Styrofoam In My Ac Unit? 

Styrofoam serves two primary purposes in a window air conditioner. The first purpose is to act as an insulator. The styrofoam helps keep the cool air inside the AC unit and the warm air outside.

The second purpose is to reduce vibration and noise. The styrofoam helps to dampen the sound of the AC unit so that it is not as loud when it is running.

Should There Be Styrofoam In My Air Conditioner? 

Yes, there should be styrofoam in your air conditioner. Styrofoam is a good sound and heat insulator. The styrofoam in your air conditioner is there as internal fan housing.

How To Clean Styrofoam Inside Ac Unit 

  • Turn off the power supply of your AC

The first step is to turn off the power supply of your AC. You can unplug the unit from the wall or switch off the circuit breaker. 

  • Cleaning the Outer Part

Once the power is off, you can start cleaning the outer part of your AC. Use a soft cloth or brush to remove any dirt or dust that has accumulated on the unit.

  • Cleaning the Inner Part

Next, you will need to clean the inner part of your AC. This includes the evaporator coils and condenser coils. Use a coil cleaning brush to remove any dirt or debris built up on these coils.

  • Cleaning the Air Filters

Finally, you will need to clean the air filters. These filters capture pollen, dust, and other airborne particles and can become clogged over time. Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to remove any dirt or dust accumulated on the filters. 

  • Switch On Your AC Unit

Once all of the parts of your AC have been cleaned, you can switch on the power and enjoy cool, clean air.

Advantages of Air Conditioner Styrofoam

Styrofoam is an excellent material for insulating against both heat and noise. It can help keep your home cool by preventing heat from entering through the walls or ceiling in the summer months. It can keep heat from escaping in the winter, making your home more energy-efficient. 

Styrofoam is also an effective soundproofing material. Blocking out noise can create a more peaceful environment in your home. Whether you’re trying to stay cool in the summer or keep your home quiet year-round, styrofoam is excellent.

Disadvantages Of Air Conditioner Styrofoam 

Air conditioner styrofoam is a cheap and easy way to insulate your home. However, there are a few disadvantages to using this material. 

First, styrofoam is not very durable, and it can easily be damaged by wind or rain. Second, styrofoam is not a good conductor of heat, so it does not work well in hot climates. 

Finally, styrofoam is not biodegradable so it will add to the growing problem of plastic pollution. While styrofoam has its advantages, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons before deciding if it is a suitable material for your home.

Should I Remove The Styrofoam From My Air Conditioner? 

No, You should keep the styrofoam that comes with the air conditioner. 
Most people don’t know that styrofoam is essential for the air conditioner. Mainly, it works as a thermal insulator. 

Some people think that styrofoam is just there for packaging, but it’s an essential part of the product. The air conditioner wouldn’t work as well without it. So, if you’re wondering whether or not you should remove the styrofoam from your air conditioner, the answer is no. Leave it there and enjoy the cool air!

Can Mold Grow On Styrofoam In An Air Conditioner? 

Yes. Mold spores are present in the air and can land on any surface. If the conditions are right, they will start to grow. Mold needs three things to grow: food, water, and warmth. Mold can find food on many surfaces, including wood, paper, and insulation. 

Water is also readily available in most homes, from leaks and spills. And finally, mold loves warmth. You often find mold growing in warm, damp places like air conditioners. 

So, if you have an air conditioner leaking water, has wet insulation, or is located in a warm room, it’s at risk for mold growth. To prevent mold growth on your air conditioner, promptly fix any leaks and keep the unit clean and dry.

If you notice mold growing on the styrofoam in your air conditioner, it is essential to clean it as soon as possible. Mold can cause respiratory problems and is difficult to remove once it gets entrenched. 

How To Clean Mold On Styrofoam in an AC?

The best way to clean mold from styrofoam is to use a mixture of bleach and water. Combine one cup of bleach with one gallon of water and apply the solution to the affected area with a sponge or brush. 

Let the solution soak for at least 15 minutes, then rinse it off with clean water. You may need to repeat this process several times to remove the mold altogether. Once the mold is gone, dry the area completely before turning on your air conditioner again.

FAQs

Is styrofoam toxic to humans? 

Styrofoam, more appropriately called polystyrene foam, is a versatile plastic product with a wide range of applications, from food packaging to insulation. 

However, there is growing evidence that styrofoam may harm human health and the environment. The primary concern with styrofoam is that it is made from styrene, a substance that has been classified as a carcinogen. 

In addition, styrofoam is not biodegradable, meaning it can persist in the environment for decades.

Will Styrofoam mold or mildew?

In general, styrofoam is resistant to mold and mildew. This is because it is a non-porous material, which means that mold spores cannot penetrate its surface. 

However, in very extreme conditions – such as if the styrofoam is constantly damp or if there is a lot of dead organic matter present – mold can eventually start to grow. Mold can cause discoloration and an unpleasant smell, and it can also lead to respiratory problems in people with allergies or asthma.

Share This Guide

Leave a Comment

Don't Settle With A Broken AC

(National Database) Call 1-888-920-1721
To Find 24/7 AC/Heater Repair In Your Area

CaLL Now