Air conditioning units are an essential component in any residence, offering that sense of comfort as seasons change and temperatures fluctuate. These systems are designed to keep indoor spaces as comfortable as possible by working tirelessly. The goal is always for the air conditioning unit to function with minimal disruptions when it is in use.
However, there are instances where the AC may occasionally emit noticeable and even pungent odors. These strange, though not a cause for concern most of the time, odors signal that something is wrong with the unit. It may leave you questioning the cause and if a major repair is necessary.
The smells are generally familiar, and you shouldn’t panic. Think of the smell as a way the AC communicates existing faults. The smell along with any odd noises can help you or your professional HVAC technician distinguish the issue. Below, we identify some of the potential smells from AC units and how to resolve them.
Musty or Moldy Smell
This is one of the familiar smells associated with an AC unit, caused by mold and mildew growing within the unit. AC systems are built to be enclosed, and this causes them to trap humidity within the enclosure. On top of that, these systems have dark enclosures which combine with the dampness to form the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew.
These fungi get trapped and accumulate on the drip pan or evaporator coils. As a result, the odor from these fungi starts to build and, through consistent operation of the AC, is released into the circulating air.
Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent mold and mildew growth. Therefore, you should schedule professional cleaning services and change the air filters regularly. It might be best to start using mold-resistant filters and install UV lights in the system to inhibit microbial growth.
Dirty Sock Smell
Yes, you read that right. There may be a familiar smell of dirty socks, which is not ideal when circulating within the home. Under normal circumstances, the air filters work effortlessly to deal with such problems.
However, as trapped dust, dirt, or debris accumulates within the filters, it changes the smell emanating from the AC. This issue causes the filter to become ineffective at cleansing the air blowing from the AC, leading to a smelly sock odor.
A quick fix for this problem is to ensure you change the filters per the AC manufacturer’s recommendations. In other cases, you can always have an HVAC expert over to conduct routine maintenance and have them check and clean the filters regularly, especially with AC systems that run frequently.
Burning Smell
This one is alarming and can have you suspecting many different sources throughout the house. If you experience a burning smell, this indicates a severe problem with your AC that should be dealt with as swiftly as possible.
The burning smell may include that ominous burning rubber odor, which sometimes signifies overheating components like the motor or a malfunction in the compressor. Commonly, this smell can warn you of faulty wiring, posing a significant risk of fire on the premises.
If you identify this smell, immediately switch off your air conditioning system and contact a qualified HVAC technician. Request that they inspect and repair any underlying electrical issues in the system. Ignoring this smell can have catastrophic outcomes if left unattended for too long.
Professional AC service providers like our team at Matheson Heating, Air & Plumbing assist clients who identify smells within their units. Our Michigan city-based company provides installation, repair, and maintenance for air conditioning systems throughout the area.
Rotten Egg Smell
That familiar smell of rotten eggs from your air conditioning system reveals the presence of a gas leak. Although gas leaks in HVAC systems are uncommon, they pose a grave danger.
Natural gas does not smell, but utility companies inject a sulfur-like smell designed to warn people of the presence of this potentially dangerous substance. The discovery of this smell when inspecting your system should be an immediate sign to take necessary precautions that can help avoid probable disaster.
Call your gas company’s emergency line right away to report the suspected leak. They will offer advice and even send a technician to evaluate and handle the issue promptly. Contact a qualified HVAC technician who can conduct the necessary AC inspection and repairs safely.
Chemical Smell
A chemical odor that smells like car fumes may mean there’s a refrigerant leakage. The refrigerant within the air conditioning unit cools the air passing through the system. While refrigerant is essential to the AC unit’s operation, it should remain within the system.
In the case of a leak, you might get the hint of a fragrant smell, which points to the presence of chemicals in the air. A leak of this kind destroys your air conditioner and ultimately endangers you and your health. The inhalation of the refrigerant is hazardous and may lead to severe complications, including respiratory distress, nerve damage, or even death.
In case you suspect that a refrigerant leak is present, turn off your AC and call an HVAC technician. Many risks are involved, so do not try correcting this problem alone at home.
Dealing With Smells
When faced with an unfamiliar odor emanating from your air conditioning system, it’s often advisable to start with a simple and routine check of the air filter. As we’ve identified, air filters become clogged over time. Your problem may be addressed with an easy air filter replacement.
Taking a more investigative approach, consider thoroughly inspecting your home’s vents and the outdoor unit. If the smell intensifies near specific vents or emanates distinctly from the outdoor unit, this can be a valuable clue in identifying the source.
Pinpointing the location of the odor can aid in narrowing down potential causes, making it easier to address the issue. This step allows for a targeted examination, helping to focus efforts on the specific areas from which the problem may be originating.
Another crucial aspect to consider in your detective work is the element of time. The unpleasant odor could be caused by mold and mildew that’s built up in your AC after it’s been turned off for a few months. If this is the case, you don’t want your family regularly breathing in mold spores when the warm weather arrives.
With a systematic approach to examining AC odors and resolving the cause, homeowners can improve the efficiency of their air conditioning systems while promoting better indoor conditions. Regular checks, targeted inspections, and timely maintenance contribute to your AC unit’s overall longevity and optimal performance.
At Matheson Heating, Air & Plumbing, we are your partner in installing and maintaining optimal heating, plumbing, and AC systems since 1946. Our company provides indoor air quality and furnace services. We also conduct installations for water heaters and softeners. These services are provided throughout the year, and we ensure that we perform repairs and maintenance services for previously installed systems in the area. Our company also replaces air filters and purifiers while providing technical assistance with humidifiers. If you need your AC, heater, or plumbing checked, contact us today.