If you notice a burning or earthy smell coming from your HVAC system, you’re probably wondering, “Why does my air conditioner smell?” Identifying the smell and understanding its cause can help you know when you should call for air conditioner repairs.
As a top-rated and reliable AC repair service in Tallahassee, FL, Cooper’s Plumbing & Air can diagnose all manner of air conditioner problems and find an efficient and cost-effective solution. When your HVAC system has some concerning smells, give us a call.
Most Common Smells: Causes and Solutions
In general, your air conditioner shouldn’t have a distinct odor. If you notice any of the following smells, you should call your HVAC technician to determine the issue and fix it.
Dirty Feet
If it smells like someone left a pair of gym socks in your ventilation, you likely have buildup somewhere in your system. The most likely causes include the following:
- Drain pan: Your drain pan collects the condensation from your evaporator coil and directs it outside. If it builds up dirt and clogs, the water can sit there and create a musty smell.
- Evaporator coil: Your evaporator coil absorbs heat from indoors and transfers it to the refrigerant, which carries it outside. It produces condensation, so if it builds up dirt and clogs, it can create a smell similar to dirty feet.
- Air filter: Your air filter blocks dust and debris from circulating throughout your home. Dirty filters can cause a variety of problems, including this unpleasant smell.
Have you noticed this smell and thus searched, “Why does my air conditioner smell?” Check your air filter and change it if needed. If your filter looks clean, call an HVAC technician to check your drain pan for the evaporator coil.
Burning
If you smell burning from your air conditioner, it often signals you have electrical issues or problems with overheating. This most often occurs from a loose electrical component or worn-out wire. It can also mean your device is overheating, usually due to a dirty air filter or other buildup.
If you notice this smell after you haven’t used your air conditioner for a while, wait and see if the smell goes away. If it persists after several minutes, you have a serious issue. Turn off your device and call us for service immediately.
Sugar Water
If you’ve ever made simple syrup, you know the distinct smell of water mixed with sugar. You also know you shouldn’t smell that odor coming from your air conditioner.
This scent indicates you have refrigerant leaking from your device. You should never attempt to fix a refrigerant problem by yourself. The chemical can cause serious health complications if you don’t handle it properly.
If you believe your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant, call an HVAC technician for emergency repairs.
Exhaust Fumes
Is the smell of exhaust causing you to wonder, “Why does my air conditioner smell?” If you realize your air conditioner doesn’t run on gas, you’re probably concerned about where these smells come from. Your engine uses fluids as lubricants, and if they leak, they smell similar to exhaust.
A detailed cleaning should fix the issue, but only certified technicians should do it.
Sulfur or Rotten Eggs
Did you know that birds and insects can become trapped in the outdoor portion of your air conditioner or your interior ductwork? When they start decomposing, they can produce a smell similar to rotten eggs. You’ll need a thorough cleaning of your HVAC system to avoid spreading this foul smell around your home.
Mildew
The smell of mildew probably evokes images of your basement, but you shouldn’t notice the odors coming from your air conditioner. This almost always means you have mold growing somewhere in your system.
Start by checking and replacing their air filter. If that doesn’t help, you’ll need an expert to locate the mold, clean it, and address the source.
How To Prevent Problems With Your Air Conditioner
You can avoid the majority of air conditioner problems and the associated bad smells if you use the following tips.
Invest in Regular Maintenance
Investing in maintaining air conditioners is the most reliable method of reducing how often you need repairs for your air conditioner. It also helps your device last longer so you don’t pay for early replacement.
If you want to avoid searching online for, “Why does my air conditioner smell?” you should schedule maintenance at least once a year. Many homeowners prefer to schedule this service in the late spring so they feel confident their air conditioner will make it through the summer.
You should also prioritize changing your air filter at least once a month. If you smoke or have pets, you should check it more often.
Moderate Your Usage
The more you use your air conditioner, the more it experiences wear and tear. If you want to reduce the frequency of repairs, use your device only for a minimal level of comfort and safety.
The Department of Energy suggests you keep your thermostat set at 78 degrees. If you have trouble feeling comfortable at this temperature, run ceiling fans, create a cross breeze with open windows, and wear loose and moisture-wicking clothing.
Clean Your Device
Your HVAC technician should clean your air conditioner during your annual maintenance, but you can also avoid problems by doing some occasional cleaning yourself. First, keep the outdoor portion of your air conditioner free from leaves and branches, and trim any plants that can encroach on it.
Check the device at least once a month for buildup. If you notice dust, leaves, cottonwood, or other debris clogging the air conditioner, use a gentle hose to clean it off.
Cooper’s Plumbing & Air Expertly Solves Air Conditioner Problems
If you’re searching, “Why does my air conditioner smell?” Cooper’s Plumbing & Air can find the issue and fix it quickly and for a surprisingly competitive price. Whether you’re worried about your AC going out or need to rid yourself of foul smells, you can trust us to produce superior results. We’re available 24/7 for rapid response.
To schedule service, call 866-464-7132. Learn more now.