When your air conditioner is working smoothly, it keeps your Yuma home nice and comfortable. So, when you detect strange odors from your air conditioner, it directly impacts your comfort and even your mood. Nobody wants that. Musty air conditioner odors are typically caused by mold, mildew, and bacteria somewhere in the air-conditioning system. If you have a musty air conditioner whose odors are spoiling your comfort, here’s what to do:
Check the Air Filter
The first area to check for musty air conditioner problems is the air filter. When air filters become clogged with dirt and debris, they can create odors that permeate throughout the air-conditioning system. Check the air filter to see if it needs to be changed. Also, touch the filter to see if it is wet or damp. It shouldn’t be, but if the filter is wet or damp, contact your HVAC technician to inspect the system to find out why.
Dirty Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil is the part of the air conditioner that cools the air in your home. During the cooling cycle, refrigerant flows into the evaporator, where it evaporates into a very cold gas. As warm air blows across the evaporator, condensation forms on the cold evaporator coil. All of this moisture is a magnet for dirt and a breeding ground for mold and mildew. The evaporator coil and the thin fins that surround the coil should be cleaned as needed by your HVAC technician during scheduled service to help prevent mold and mildew from forming.
Condensate Pan and Drain Line
The condensation that forms on the evaporator coil drips into a pan and flows away in the drain line. The condensate pan is located directly below the evaporator coil. There should not be standing water in the pan. This can cause mold and mildew to form in the pan and perhaps in the drain line. The condensate pan is also checked by your HVAC technician during a service call.
If you’re having a problem with a musty air conditioner in your Yuma-area home, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company for assistance.
