Is Your Central AC Causing a Stink? Here Are Some Common Causes and Solutions To Clear The Air
It’s the first warm day of the year and you turn on your central air conditioner for the first time. The first thing you notice is a strange odor. While it’s not uncommon to notice some odors coming from air vents when the cooling or heating system starts up for the first time of the season, if smells linger for an extended period of time it’s important to identify the source and have it corrected.
Here are a few common sources of foul AC smells.
Dirty Air Ducts
If humidity levels reach high enough levels it can cause the dirt inside air ducts to turn to mold. Mold in the air ducts reduces indoor air quality and can be a serious health hazard. If you notice mold inside air ducts, or experience musty smells coming from the air registers, your ventilation system could be harboring mold. A professional duct cleaning company can thoroughly clean the inside of the ducts to remove the dust and dirt that can cause mold and harbor dust mites and bacteria.
Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter will restrict the amount of air that can cycle through the ventilation system, increasing humidity inside the air ducts. This creates an ideal environment for mold to grow. Replace your air filter at least once a month, or at the interval recommended by the filter manufacturer.
Clogged Condensate Pan
In addition to lowering the temperature in your home, a central air conditioner also dehumidifies the air by blowing warm air over coils that contain refrigerant. This reduces the temperature of the air and removes the moisture from the air through condensation. The moisture drips off the coil and collects in a condensate pan so it can flow down the drain.
If dirt and debris collect inside the pan it can eventually clog the drain hole, encouraging mold and mildew to grow – resulting in a musty smell inside the home.
The condensate pan is located inside the air handler right under the refrigerant coils. If the drain is clogged you can us a piece of wire or a paper clip to clean out the drain opening. If there are signs of mold or mildew, wipe the pan clean with a sponge and diluted chlorine bleach.
If your central air conditioner is causing strange smells inside your home, call Central Heating Cooling Plumbing and Electrical for AC service. Our cooling system experts can inspect the HVAC system and ensure that it is clean and in good working order.