Why Does My Air Conditioner Smell Bad?

As seasons change many homeowners notice strange odors coming from the air ducts. Most often it occurs when the furnace kicks on for the first time, burning off the dust collected over the summer and fall. But the same thing can happen when the air conditioner comes on. It may smell a bit moldy, or like dirty socks. And what could have been a relaxing day indoors quickly becomes an unpleasant experience. Where does the smell come from? Does it mean you need air conditioning repair in San Jose, CA? Here is what you need to know.

What Causes the Air Conditioning to Smell?

If ducts smell musty, the most likely culprit is moisture and humidity. During in-between seasons when the system isn’t in use water can collect on the coils. And because of the lack of use, the coil turns into a virtual microorganism test tube.

The first culprit is bacteria and mold. With the right conditions of moisture and temperature, the bacteria can grow into mold and mildew which emits foul odors. And from there the smell spreads throughout the ducts reaching the entire home. And more than just foul smells, mold can also release spores that can cause a range of health problems.

A rotting egg or trash smell could indicate an animal carcass stuck in the ducts. Birds and rodents might take up shelter in an air duct, get caught, and can often die and decompose. To get rid of the smell you will need professional duct cleaning.

A natural gas or skunky smell is more common while running the furnace. But it can also happen with the air conditioner if there is a gas leak in the system and spreading throughout the home. This is a serious issue and should not be ignored. Natural gas leaks are dangerous. They can put you, your family, and your home at risk. It is best to evacuate the home and contact the heating and cooling company or the gas company to have them assess the issue and repair the leak.

Another problem is a burning smell or melting plastic. This is often from a wiring issue, an overheating motor, or a similar mechanical problem. This is a serious issue. If you notice a burning smell you need to shut off the system and call for a professional HVAC technician right away. And if the burning smell persists or you notice signs of smoke you should evacuate the home and call the fire department.

If you notice a foul smell coming through your air conditioning, an HVAC professional can provide solutions. It may not be an immediate emergency, but that does not mean the foul smell is unimportant. For help with air conditioning repair in San Jose, CA you need professionals you can count on to get the job done right. Contact Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning. We can help you pinpoint the smell and correct the problem. Contact us at (408) 800-2791 to schedule a service. Or if you have more questions about repairs visit us at 1045 N 10th St San Jose, CA 95112.