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24h Breakdown
Nick Griffiths
Air conditioning systems are essential components in a growing number of modern homes and businesses. When they’re working well, they ensure a comfortable environment all year round.
However, it’s not uncommon for aircon systems to generate unpleasant odours when in operation. This can have a number of causes, but in most cases it’s a relatively simple problem to fix.
If you’re wondering why does my air conditioner smell, then you are not alone. It’s a common search term on the internet and maintenance engineers are regularly asked to fix unpleasant odours emanating from air conditioners.
Aircon smells can result from several common issues. Mould or mildew growth in the unit is a major cause of the problem. Moisture can accumulate in the AC system, in particular the evaporator coils or drainage pan, creating the perfect environment for mould to develop. If the drainage system gets clogged, water can stagnate, leading to a musty, or earthy smell.
A buildup of dirt, dust, and other debris within the filters or ducts can generate unpleasant smells when the air conditioning system is running. Sometimes insects, and even small animals such as rodents, enter the ductwork and can’t escape, leaving behind a bad odour.
When you find yourself thinking, why does my AC stink, then you may be worried about what it means.
A musty odour may indicate mould or mildew growth, which can reduce air quality potentially triggering allergies or respiratory problems. If the scent is more like rotten eggs, it could be a gas leak, which requires immediate attention. The aircon system should be turned off and an engineer contacted. Burning plastic might indicate electrical issues such as wiring or component overheating, both of which need prompt attention.
Lingering or recurring odours that are not resolved in a short period of time, such as when the aircon is burning off dust after previously not being in use, should be investigated. They might indicate a problem that could ultimately impact on the performance of the AC system, as well as its safety.
If you’re wondering why does my air conditioner stink, then the potential health consequences also need to be considered. Musty air from an AC unit may indicate the growth of mould or mildew in your AC system. If this is left unchecked, it can become a health issue for anyone living in or using the building. These microorganisms can release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) into the air which when inhaled can cause respiratory problems. It can be particularly problematic for asthma or allergy sufferers.
If your air conditioning system is producing unpleasant odours that do not rectify themselves within a short period of time, it’s essential that your system is serviced by a qualified engineer.
To ensure that your air conditioning system is working safely and efficiently, regular maintenance is critical. The air filters should be cleaned or replaced to remove trapped particles that are contributing to odours and impacting on the performance of the system. The evaporator coils and condensate drain pan should be inspected regularly and cleaned if required. Use a mild cleaning solution to eliminate the buildup of mildew or stagnant water in these areas.
For a more thorough approach, the air ducts should be cleaned. Dust, mould, or debris left unchecked in the ductwork can circulate odours throughout your home.
Regular upkeep, servicing at least once a year, as well as monthly filter checks can prevent smells from developing, ensuring your system is safe and efficient.
At ICE, our flexible air conditioning maintenance plans have a fixed monthly cost to suit your budget. Whether your AC system is installed in a small office, or a large pharmaceutical plant, our maintenance plans reflect your actual needs. You don’t pay for anything that your system doesn’t require, making it a highly cost-effective way to keep your AC system running efficiently and effectively for longer.
Our expert team can ensure that your AC system is running at optimum efficiency, giving you valuable peace of mind, and saving you money.
We’re always happy to answer any question you might have or to tell you more about our services.
Contact our friendly team for further information.