Why Does My Air Conditioner Smell Bad?

Identifying Common Causes of a Smelly Air Conditioner

It’s summer, and your air conditioner is working hard to keep you cool. It should be providing a refreshing breeze, but instead, an unpleasant odor is coming from your AC unit. This can be frustrating and uncomfortable for many people. Fortunately, there are several reasons why your air conditioner could be emitting a bad smell. Below, we will go over the common causes of AC smells and how to address them.

Dirty Air Filter

One of the most common causes of bad smells coming from an AC unit is a dirty air filter. Over time, dust, dirt, and other debris accumulate in the air filter, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. This can cause a musty smell that can be overwhelming. The solution is simple: replace your air filter regularly. It’s typically recommended to replace filters every three months or more often if you have pets or allergies.

Mold & Mildew

If left unattended, mold and mildew can grow in your AC unit, causing a bad smell. This usually occurs when moisture isn’t properly drained from the unit. A buildup of moisture creates an environment that is perfect for growing mold and mildew. It’s important to clean your AC unit regularly to prevent mold and mildew growth. You may want to hire a professional to handle this task to ensure you’re air conditioner is handled safely and properly.

Dead Animals

As unpleasant as it sounds, sometimes animals such as birds, rodents, or insects crawl into your AC unit and die there. This can cause a foul odor that smells like something rotting. If you notice a smell like this coming from your AC unit, it’s best to turn it off and call a professional to remove the dead animal.

Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant is used to cool the air in your AC unit. If there’s a leak, it can cause a chemical smell in your home. Additionally, refrigerant is toxic, so if you suspect a leak, you should turn off your AC unit immediately and call a professional to fix it.

Dirty Coils

The coils in your AC unit can accumulate dirt, dust, and other debris over time. This can cause a musty smell to emanate from the unit. If you notice this smell, turning off the AC unit and cleaning the coils with a coil cleaner can eliminate the odor.

Contact Heart of Ohio For AC Help Today!

A bad smell coming from your AC unit can be uncomfortable and unpleasant. But don’t worry, most of the causes are easy to address by performing regular maintenance.

Of course, if you don’t feel comfortable cleaning or inspecting your AC unit, it’s always best to call a professional to handle it for you. That’s where Heart of Ohio comes in. Founded in 1989, our family-owned business has been keeping homes in the Akron area cool and comfortable for over 30 years. We service all brands of air conditioners for your convenience.

Call Heart of Ohio today at 330-764-1011 to schedule air conditioning maintenance or repairs in Akron or surrounding areas.