Air Conditioner Smells & What Causes Them

When the weather turns hot and humid in Tampa, FL, you rely on your air conditioning system to keep you cool and comfortable. The last thing you expect is for the equipment to emit unpleasant odors. What causes them, and how can you fix it? Here’s what to do when surprised by air conditioner smells.

Change the Filter

Does your home suddenly smell like it hasn’t been vacuumed or dusted for years? Strong, musty odors can indicate your AC filter needs changing. A panel clogged with debris allows unfiltered air to circulate through your home. Frequent filter changes help keep the air smelling fresh. It can also save you a bundle of money. Cooling systems with clean filters operate up to 15% more efficiently than those with clogged ones.

Check the Condensate Line

Air conditioning systems work by extracting heat from the air and moving it outside. As warm air holds more water vapor than cool air, moisture also gets collected. Clogs in the condensate pan or drain can trap the moisture inside, providing the perfect environment for foul-smelling contaminants like bacteria and biological growth. With no place to go, the water can back up, spill, and cause further damage. If the drain outlet outside looks obstructed, a qualified HVAC technician can clear the drain for you.

Clean the Coils

AC systems rely on the cycle of refrigeration to keep you cool. As the refrigerant passes through the evaporator coils, it changes from a liquid into a gas, drawing heat from the surrounding air. An accumulation of dirt on the coils can cause them to ice up, then drip water as the ice melts. Dank, rank, or foul air conditioning smells emanating from the evaporator are a sure sign it’s time to schedule professional AC maintenance.

At Climate Design, we’re proud to provide cooling services that help ensure your system runs cleanly, efficiently, and odor-free. Learn more about our air conditioning repair services or call us today.

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