As the summer heat rolls in, many people rely on their air conditioning system to create a cool and comfortable environment in their homes. However, if your AC unit starts emitting bad odors, it may leave you feeling as though the solution is out of reach. So, why does your air conditioner smell bad? What can you do to fix the problem? In this blog, we’ll explore some of the common causes and how to address them.
Why Does My Air Conditioner Smell?
There can be several reasons why your AC smells bad. Some of the most common causes include:
1. Dirty Air Filter
One of the most likely reasons your AC smells bad is a dirty air filter. Air filters play a significant role in ensuring that your HVAC system operates correctly by removing dirt, dust, and other contaminants.
So, why does your air conditioner smell bad when there’s a dirty or clogged filter? When filters become clogged, the AC unit can circulate dirty air, resulting in musty smells or odors similar to dirty socks.
Use this guide to find out how often you should be changing your air conditioning system’s air filter:
2. Mold and Mildew
Another possible reason for an air conditioner emitting bad odors is mold and mildew growth. When your AC unit’s evaporator coil gets wet, it creates a conducive environment for mold and mildew to grow, leading to a musty, moldy odor emanating from your system. Moreover, if the drain pans remain wet, it can cause mildew and mold to thrive.
3. Gas Leaks
If your AC unit smells like exhaust fumes or gas, then it’s possible that it has a gas leak. This situation is dangerous and requires immediate professional attention from HVAC technicians. Don’t hesitate to call Environment Masters to schedule an air conditioning service in Jackson, MS.
4. Refrigerant Leaks
An air conditioning system’s refrigerant helps cool the air that circulates throughout your home. However, if there is a refrigerant leak, the AC unit may emit a chemical odor, similar to nail polish remover. That’s because refrigerant is comprised of chemicals that, when released into the air, can have an unpleasant smell.
5. Dead Animals
Finally, if you smell a foul or rotting scent coming from your air conditioner, it could be a dead animal. Small creatures like birds or mice can get trapped inside your ductwork and ultimately die there, causing a terrible smell to emanate throughout your home. If your AC smells bad and you think a dead animal could be to blame, it’s important to act quickly.
Contact Our AC Professionals Today in Jackson, MS!
So, why does your air conditioner smell bad? As you can see, there can potentially be many different reasons why your AC smells bad. Whether it’s due to a dirty air filter, mold and mildew growth, a refrigerant leak, or a dead animal, it’s important to take action to solve the problem. Contacting professional HVAC technicians can help you identify the source of the odor and provide the necessary repairs or cleaning to get your air conditioning system back to working properly.
Don’t suffer from bad AC smells any longer. Turn to the experts at Environment Masters for a repair. We can also provide you with an air conditioning replacement in Jackson, MS if the time has come for an upgrade. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
