4 Common Air Conditioner Smells (And How To Get Rid Of Them)

There is nothing better than coming inside on a hot day to the cooling comforts of a well-working air conditioning unit. And while it doesn’t take away from the benefits of cooler air, having strong odors accompany the air from your AC unit can certainly be disheartening.

To solve the issue of stench, it’s imperative that you get to the cause of the odor. Here are four common air conditioner smells and how to get rid of them.

1. Rotten eggs

The smell of sulfur, or a rotten egg smell, is a telltale sign of a natural gas leak. If you notice a rotten egg odor, you should take immediate action. Promptly turn off the unit and open any windows you can inside your home, then vacate the premises immediately. Be careful not to use your cell phone inside the house, as the electric charge can create a spark. Once you are safely outdoors, contact your local gas provider or a reputable plumbing team to help you find the leak and repair it as necessary.

2. Mold or mustiness

Since HVAC systems often deal with moist air or produce condensation, mold and mildew growth are fairly common problems. A constant musty smell can be coming from your ductwork or within the condenser coil inside the air conditioning unit. Mold spores within your HVAC system can cause health issues such as allergic reactions and asthma, as well as headaches and other problems. To get to the root of the stench, we recommend cleaning and inspecting your air conditioning unit as well as any existing ductwork.

3. Smoke

Secondhand smoke lingers longer than you might think. The smell of smoke can get stuck in the condenser coil of the air conditioning unit, and will eventually find its way into your home through the blower.

4. Burning

However, if you suspect that something is actively burning, it would be wise to check the air conditioner fan or compressor. If you smell burning around the AC unit itself, turn the unit off immediately and call for help from an HVAC professional.

Air conditioning repair in Fredericksburg

If you are experiencing any unusual odor coming from your HVAC system, don’t put up with it for one day longer. Give Robert B. Payne, Inc. a call to have one of our experienced HVAC technicians take a look at your air conditioning system. We will help you troubleshoot any issues and recommend an appropriate cleaning and maintenance schedule to keep unwanted stenches at bay. Schedule an appointment today by dialing (540) 373-5876.