What’s That Smell? Learn How To Get Rid Of AC Odors

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What in the world is that smell?!

A musty, stinky home creates an uncomfortable living space. Worse, you start thinking about potential health issues like mold and mildew! Those AC odors need to get taken care of fast, which brings us to the topic of our post.

ac odors

How do you get rid of common AC odors and smelly issues? Read on and find out.

The Cause of AC Odors

There are quite a few common causes for AC odors. Some are easier to identify while others take some investigation. Either way, a smell coming through the vents when the AC kicks on needs to be addressed, pronto!

What could cause odors in your AC system? Consider:

  • Mildew/Mold — Cold air meeting hot air causes condensation. The excess moisture is a perfect environment for mildew and mold. This can happen at the unit or throughout the insulation.
  • Organic Compounds — Pests and other critters may have met their end in the ductwork. As you can imagine, the breakdown is now billowing through the heating and cooling system.
  • Gas Leak — A rotten egg/sulfur smell is a MAJOR danger because of carbon monoxide. The source may not be the HVAC, but it’s spreading because of it. Don’t hesitate to get out of the house and call the pros immediately.
  • Melting/Burning — Damage to components of the system has a burning, electrical smell. This poses another major danger, as something may be overheating or outright melting. The scent may be a precursor to a fire.

From clogged condensation lines to systems locking up, the home’s AC has several points where it can begin causing odors. Luckily, most smells are easy to manage and eliminate.

How to Get Rid of Home AC Smells

Whether you don’t mind getting dirty or you’d rather call the professionals, read these tips. You might be able to get rid of those AC smells on your own. Or, at least have a better understanding of it for when you go about hiring an AC technician.

  • Air It Out — Open the windows and get some fresh air in the home. This should clear out the lingering smells while helping get rid of moisture.
  • Wash the Unit — Turn off the AC’s power. Clean the unit and its surrounding area of any leaves and debris. Spray it down and clear out the drain line.
  • Clean the Ducts — Get a mask, goggles, rags, and a vacuum. Then, go to town cleaning what you can access in and around the ducts.
  • Spray and Disinfect — Pick up an odor eliminating spray from your local hardware store. Spray it into the ductwork to purify the system.
  • Change the Filter — Swap out the air filter and set a reminder, so it’s not so neglected next time.

A bit of elbow grease can make quick work of surface-level odor issues. For the tougher causes for stink, you’ll want to air quality services.

Call the Professionals!

Those AC odors that cause an alarm — rotten eggs and burning — require a professional, fast! The others you can’t reach, deep in the system, are the same.

Look no further than with our professional HVAC services.

We’re here to service all of your HVAC needs in Delaware. Give us a call, 302-836-1921, or send us a message. We’re here for you 24/7.