BLOGS

Why Your AC Smells Musty and What to Do About It

Is your air conditioner emitting a musty smell all of the sudden? This can be extremely off putting and can point to a number of potential problems. Here are some of the most common reasons for a musty smelling AC and what you can do about it.

You May Need to Change the Filter

After a long season of dormancy, your AC will have collected a lot of dust in its coils. Having these coils professionally cleaned before you begin running your AC for the season can eliminate this musty smell a lot of times.

In addition to dirty coils, dirty filters can also contribute to a musty smell. It is recommended that you change your AC filter every three months. This will help to eliminate unwanted smells and assist your AC in running more smoothly.

There Might Be Mold or Mildew in the Ductwork

If it is not the filter or dirty coils, you may have mold or mildew present in your vents or ducts. For the most part, it is best to call a professional out to investigate this. Inhaling mold spores can lead to health issues and you may not have the right tools or know exactly what you are looking for.

Your Drain Pan Might Be Full

An air conditioner unit will typically have two drain pans where condensation can run off. A clogged drainpipe could cause the drain pan to back up and have standing water. This can lead to mold and bacteria growth and thus a musty smell. If your drain pan is full, you want to get this fixed before it leads to a bigger problem.

Don’t Hesitate to Hire a Professional

If you are having trouble locating the source of the musty smell, don’t hesitate to call out a professional. HVAC technicians have seen it all and can usually identify and fix the problem in a timely manner.

Our Prime Custom Builders team wants you and your family to be comfortable in your home, no matter the season. Hopefully if you have noticed a musty smell coming from your AC unit, this article helped point you in the right direction for solutions.

By Prime Custom Builders 8-23-2022