6 Causes Of A Musty AC Odor & How To Fix It

If you have a musty smell coming from your AC, it can be frustrating to find the cause. Fortunately, there are some specific things actions you can take, including calling in a professional to solve the problem. You’ll want to make sure you’re addressing regular maintenance and taking preventive measures to keep it from happening again. Discount Air Conditioning & Heating shares six possible issues that could be the culprit.

1. The AC Filter Is Moldy

Moldy air filters, along with mildew in ducts and vents, can easily cause a musty smell. A proper AC inspection will find these issues so you can have them corrected. Ensure you’re changing your filters and cleaning your ducts as part of your standard AC maintenance.

2. Your Air Conditioning’s Drain Pan Is Clogged

Clogged drain pans are another reason you might have a musty smell from your air conditioner. There are several ways a drain pan can become clogged with stagnant water. Fortunately, an AC technician can unblock the drain pan and look for the reason it became blocked in the first place to reduce the chances of it happening in the future.

  • Dirt Buildup
  • Blocking Debris
  • Mold Or Algae Growth

3. You’re Using A Unit That Is Too Small

An AC system keeps your home cool, but it also takes moisture out of the air. If you’re using a unit that’s too small for your home, removing moisture won’t be as efficient, and that additional dampness can start to build up. Over time, this can create mold and mildew issues that will cause a musty AC odor.

4. You Have Frozen Evaporator Coils

The evaporator coils in your AC unit can freeze when their refrigerant becomes too cold, and that causes additional moisture. Your indoor air quality will suffer, as well. Regularly changing air filters helps reduce this issue, providing better airflow.

5. There Are Condensation Issues

Condensation buildup develops when there is a difference in temperature from one item to another. Much like a glass of cold water developing dampness on its exterior in a warm room, your AC system can acquire condensation around the coils. An AC inspection can find the cause and help stop the problem.

6. The Condensate Line Is Blocked With Algae

The condensate line can become blocked with algae growth, stopping the drainage of moisture collected from the air. Along with mildew in ducts and stagnant water, this is one of the most common reasons for a musty odor. Part of good AC maintenance is making sure the condensate line is clear.

Choose Our Trusted Professionals To Keep You Cool

Our technicians will look for condensation buildup, clogged drain pans, refrigerant leaks, and other issues, then correct the problem to keep it from happening again. If you’re in the Las Vegas, NV, area, you can get regular AC inspection and maintenance from the professionals at Discount Air Conditioning & Heating to keep your system working correctly. Call us today to schedule an inspection.

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