Your air conditioner is designed to keep you cool and cozy even as temperatures rise during the summer. However, as your AC unit runs day and night, malfunctions are likely to occur once in a while. One of the most common AC issues you’re likely to encounter is the strange odor that could spread throughout the household. Some smells can be pungent while others are more subtle. Nevertheless, all these foul smells indicate that something is amiss with your AC system. It is always advisable to leave any serious AC repairs to a professional technician, especially when you may still have a warranty.
Wondering why your AC unit is emitting foul odors? Here are seven reasons that could be causing this issue:
1. Dirty Air Filter
As your AC unit operates over time, pollutants and other particulates can gather in the air filters. These could lead your unit to emit foul odors. Furthermore, smoking cigarettes or using candles indoors could also lead to smoke and soot accumulating in the filters. These fumes will later spread in the home as your AC unit functions. It is a good idea to clean and even replace the air filters.
2. Refrigerant Leak
If your AC unit is emitting a chemical-like smell, it could have a leaking refrigerant line. Not only does this have a negative effect on the energy efficiency of your unit, but it can also pose a health hazard. If chemicals are present in your indoor atmosphere, your respiratory health will be endangered. Make certain that the household is immediately ventilated if your system shows signs of this particular problem.
3. Electrical Components
You may also notice that your AC unit gives off the smell of burning plastic. This usually hints at an electrical issue. Burning smells indicate that one or more of your unit’s components may have shorted out or are, in fact, burning or melting. Resolving electrical malfunctions requires a great level of expertise since coming into contact with these components can be dangerous. On the other hand, the issue could also be caused by the accumulation of dust. If your AC unit has gone through a long period of inactivity, dust can settle inside of your unit. When you operate the unit, the dust can burn and give off a smoky smell. Make sure that you dust off the unit frequently.
4. Critters
If an insect or a critter has died inside your AC system, the smell of the carcass will soon prove impossible to ignore. Even if your AC is only trapping tiny insects, they could accumulate if left uncleaned. Once they decompose, the debris can significantly pollute your indoor air. It is best to clean the AC unit once in a while to get rid of any unwanted trapped critters.
5. Molded Drain Line
When the drain line becomes clogged, stagnant water and other moist substances can cause mold to build up in the unit. This will give off a distinctive “dirty socks” odor. Ensure that the drain lines are cleaned properly to avoid any possible development of mold.
6. Molded Ductwork
If there is excess humidity in the home, mold can develop in the ductwork. This could result in an unpleasant odor spreading throughout your household when the AC is running. Fix any water leaks and make sure that the ductwork is cleaned frequently to get rid of any mold buildup.
7. Stagnant Water
In certain cases, you may notice that your air conditioner gives off foul smells that emanate from leaking water. If your unit is leaking moisture, it is advisable to fix the leak before the problem exacerbates. The presence of water around the AC unit can also be a breeding ground for mold and mildew. These unwanted growths can produce bad smells that will spread throughout your indoor environment.
Contact Us Today
If you’re looking for reliable AC repairs in the general vicinity of the Gateway Arch on the Missouri side of the river, our business at Bone Heating & Cooling has the answers. We provide efficient services that will help get rid of any AC failures you encounter. As soon as you notice that your unit is starting to act up, do not hesitate to turn to us for proficient solutions. We vow to return your system to its peak operating condition. In addition to AC repairs, Bone Heating & Cooling, also provides AC installations and maintenance, and even furnace repairs, installations, and maintenance services. We also proudly offer indoor air quality assessments and solutions as well as fireplace services. Contact us today to learn more about the ways we can help you with your indoor climate comfort needs.
Contact our team at Bone Heating & Cooling today for more information!
