9 Bad Air Conditioner Unit Smells & What To Do To Remove The Stench?

If you’re a homeowner, you know the importance of maintaining your home’s air conditioning unit, especially during the summer season. However, what happens when your air conditioner unit starts giving off a bad smell? Not only is it unpleasant, but it can also affect the quality of your indoor air. Fortunately, Steve Patrick Air is here to help! In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the nine bad smells that can come from your air conditioner unit and the solutions to remove the stench.

1. Musty or moldy smell: This smell often indicates that mold and mildew have grown in your air conditioning unit. The first step in solving this problem is to switch off the unit. Afterward, locate the source of the bad smell, whether it’s in your air filter, ductwork, or evaporator coil. Next, clean or replace the affected area to eliminate the source of the smell.
2. Burning smell: A burning smell often signifies that there’s an electrical issue within your air conditioning system. Immediately switch off the unit and contact a professional to diagnose and fix the problem.
3. Rotten egg smell: This smell is usually due to a gas leak. If you smell rotten eggs, immediately leave the home and contact your gas provider or emergency services. Avoid turning any electrical appliances on or off and do not use your mobile phone inside your home.
4. Chemical smell: This smell is often due to refrigerant leaks within your air conditioning system. It’s important not to ignore this smell, as refrigerants can release toxic fumes into the air. Contact a professional to diagnose and fix the issue as soon as possible.
5. Dirty socks smell: This sour and musty smell is often due to a dirty or clogged air filter. Cleaning or replacing the air filter can get rid of the smell. However, if the smell persists, it may be necessary to contact a professional to check for other underlying issues.
6. Stale cigarette smoke smell: If you’re a smoker or have had someone smoking in your home, the smell of stale cigarette smoke can linger in your air conditioning system. Regularly cleaning or replacing your air filter can help eliminate the smell.
7. Sewage smell: This unpleasant smell can indicate a faulty drain line or backed-up sewer lines. It’s important to contact a professional as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your air conditioning unit.
8. Animal or pest smell: If you hear scratching or scurrying in your air conditioning unit, it’s likely that an animal or pest has entered the unit. In addition to the bad smell, pests can also cause damage to the unit. Contact a professional to safely remove the animal or pest and repair any damages.
9. Damp or humid smell: A damp smell can indicate excess moisture in your air conditioning unit. This excess moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, which not only causes a bad smell but also affects your indoor air quality. Contact a professional to inspect the unit and determine the cause of the excess moisture.

In conclusion, bad smells coming from your air conditioning unit can be unpleasant and can also affect your indoor air quality. Fortunately, with the help of Steve Patrick Air, you can identify the source of the smell and take the necessary steps to eliminate it. If you’re experiencing any of these nine bad smells or any other issues with your air conditioning system, don’t hesitate to contact us at 559-224-1729. Our team of professionals is here to help keep your home’s air conditioning running smoothly and efficiently.