Why Does My Air Conditioner Smell Musty? – Crowther Heating & Air Conditioning
May 14, 2021
With summer right around the corner, you’ll want to make sure your AC unit is in tip top shape. But if you turn it on then notice a musty smell coming out, it’s not only a less-than-pleasurable odor, but it’s a sign something could be wrong and needs to get checked out. So what are some reasons it smells that way, and what can you do about it?
Excess Moisture
If your home is extra humid or there’s a drain leaking, there might be excess moisture inside the air ducts of your home. This excess moisture can then lead to- you guessed it- mold or mildew, which then cause that funky smell. Not only do mold and mildew have a foul odor, but they can also cause respiratory problems.
Dirty Air Filters
The filters in your AC unit are what the air flows between; the unit takes indoor warm air, cools it down, and pushes it back out the vents as cold air. If the filters aren’t clean, this means the air being cycled back out won’t be clean, either, and can account for the unpleasant odor. All the particles the filter picks up over time can build up and even become clogged.
Dirty Drain Pan
When warm indoor air is taken in through the vent, the moisture that is removed from it then turns into water that falls into the drain pan. Since the pan is constantly holding water, it can experience wear and tear over the years just like other parts of your AC unit, and break down and not work as well. If it’s not working as well or gets clogged from all the water dripping into it, it can begin to mold, hence adding to the musty smell.
Incorrectly Sized AC Unit
If your AC unit is too big or too small for your home, it won’t work as it’s supposed to. If it’s too big, then the same air will get cycled through your home too fast without it getting entirely dehumidified, which leads to excess moisture, leading to the dreaded moldy smell. An AC unit that fits just right will be better for the cleanliness and quality of your air as well as your wallet!
Cooling Coils are Dirty
To send out cold air, the AC unit blows air over cooling coils. If those coils are dirty and have any built up particles or filth on them, then the air that blows over them into your home will most likely pick up the smell from the dirt.
Maintenance is Needed
As experts in AC maintenance, the team at Crowther HVAC knows everything your AC unit needs to work properly and be the cleanest and most efficient it can be. Whether you’re experiencing that dreaded musty smell, your home doesn’t feel cooled off enough, your bills have been alarmingly high, or you simply haven’t gotten your unit checked or cleaned in a while, we’re here to help. Look no further for skilled AC contractors near Irvington. Call today to set up your AC maintenance appointment!
