“Why does my AC smell musty?” Some homeowners would rather not ask, but if you’d like to prevent the air conditioning system from emitting foul odors, all you have to do is schedule HVAC services in Avon, CT!
If you ever start your cooling system and instantly get a whiff of an awful smell, turn it off and seek professional air conditioning services. Professionals like SM Mechanical Services know how to get rid of AC smells because they know what to look for inside the unit. Learn about the most common causes of musty AC smells here so that you can understand when to worry.
Why Your Home’s Air Conditioner Might Smell Musty in Avon, Connecticut
Are you wondering, “Why does my AC smell musty?” Mildew and mold are probably growing somewhere inside it, but the more important question is why.
Excess moisture is known to cause mildew and mold in air conditioners, especially when it remains stagnant for hours, days, or even weeks. Identifying the source of this moisture is crucial when determining how to prevent AC musty odors. For example, here are several things that can encourage organic growth in an HVAC system:
Your Cooling System Has a Dirty Air Filter
How long has it been since you replaced the filter in your air conditioning system? If it has been well over three months, it likely has a dirty AC filter. Unfortunately, this dirt layer can wreak havoc on your AC system in climates like Avon, CT.
Why does my AC smell musty? Could the potential reason be a dirty air filter? If so, restricted airflow could allow moisture to build up and transform the unit into a mold and mildew breeding ground.
Failing to replace your filter regularly may also lead to other air conditioner problems, like reduced energy efficiency and poor indoor air quality.
You Have a Clogged Condensate Drain Line or Pan
The air conditioning system in your home collects its fair share of condensation. The unit relies on a condensate drain line and pan to whisk this moisture away. If it doesn’t work because the condensate line is clogged or the drain pan is cracked, these issues will let the excess water spill out and sit where it shouldn’t for long stretches.
If either of these things happens, do not be surprised if you find yourself asking, “Why does my AC smell musty?” The situation may worsen as more condensation feeds the mold and mildew inside the air conditioner.
Your Air Conditioner Has a Dirty or Frozen Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil in your Avon, CT, home’s air conditioning system is one of its most critical components. It utilizes refrigerant to absorb heat from inside your home before dispersing it via the portion of your AC system located outside.
If you don’t maintain your AC system properly, dirt and dust might build up on its evaporator coil, trapping moisture. In some cases, the coil may even freeze completely before thawing later, leaving moisture to pool inside the system.
This is one of the most serious AC problems, as it can lead to mold and mildew growing right in your system. With these issues, your cooling system won’t run efficiently or keep your home as cool as it should.
How To Fix an Air Conditioner That Smells Musty
So, why does my AC smell musty? And what steps should I take next?
Ideally, an HVAC technician like SM Mechanical Services will pinpoint the source of the smell and identify its cause. For example, if a dirty AC filter is to blame, replacing it could fix the problem and prevent your home from smelling unpleasant when its cooling system runs. If a clogged condensate drain line is the culprit, unclogging the line might resolve the issue.
Removing mold and mildew from an air conditioning system is easy for professionals who do it all the time and take safety precautions. If you suspect black mold in AC units, always call for a professional’s help right away.
Does Your AC Smell Musty While It’s Running? Contact Us for the Necessary Repairs in Avon, Connecticut
“Why does my AC smell musty?” As you can see, many issues can cause AC system complications, and not all of them are innocuous. If you smell moldy or mildewy smells, don’t wait to contact SM Mechanical Services for air conditioner cleaning and repairs, including fixing frozen AC coils and swapping out filters.
Call us today to schedule an appointment in Avon, CT, or the surrounding areas!