What is That Unpleasant Smell Coming From Your Air Conditioner?

Have you noticed a strange smell filling your home when your air conditioner turns on? If you are shaking your head yes, don’t worry, we’re here to help you. Before you can rid your A/C and your home of that unpleasant odor, you need to pinpoint the cause behind the smell. Fortunately, the smell itself is your best clue.

A Burning Smell

If a burning smell is blowing through your vents, your air conditioner is most likely suffering from a mechanical malfunction. Oftentimes, the problem lies with either the unit’s fan or its compressor. We suggest standing by the actual A/C unit and sniffing around. If the smell is even stronger near your air conditioner, turn your system off and immediately call an HVAC professional.

A Rotten Egg Smell

A rotten egg smell pouring out of your vents can indicate a natural gas leak. If this is the case, do not attempt to find the leak yourself. Instead, exit your home and immediately call 911. Once the proper authorities have turned off the gas, call an HVAC professional to come inspect and repair your system.

A Musty Smell

Mildew or Mold growing somewhere in your system will cause a musty odor to travel through your vents. Finding the source of the mold growth is key to eliminating the unpleasant smell. If there is a moisture or drainage problem, the mold may be growing on your unit’s condenser coils. Your duct work is also a likely culprit. While mold growth is not an emergency, it should be dealt with in a timely fashion. Allowing the mold problem to go untreated will lead to poor air quality in your home, and it can even have an adverse effect on your family’s health. Having your air conditioner inspected by an HVAC professional is your best course of action when it comes to finding and eliminating mold.

If there is an unusual smell coming from your air conditioner, please contact us today and we’ll be happy to solve the problem.