Air conditioning smells can be highly unpleasant for staff and visitors and if left unattended for too long, may eventually become so bad that the air conditioning system needs to be switched off. To help prevent this, we have put together a guide to the more commonly reported air conditioning smells, their likely causes, and what to do when the air conditioning has started to smell bad.
WHY DOES MY AIR CONDITIONING SMELL?
Air conditioning systems can start to smell for a multitude of reasons, including the environments they service, neglected air conditioning servicing & maintenance, and mechanical problems.
Listed below are the most commonly reported air conditioning odours. Simply click the ‘answer’ button against the relevant smell to learn more.
Why Does My Air Conditioning Smell Like Eggs?
- Cause: As moisture collects inside of an air conditioning system, particularly on the evaporator coils and condensate drain pans, the buildup of excess moisture can sometimes lead to the growth of mould, mildew, or bacteria producing an eggy smell.
- Solution: Contact Air Options and book a service call. Our engineer will then attend to replace, or clean the system’s filters, evaporator coils, condensate drain pan and ensure that the system’s condensate drain lines are clear and free flowing. All cleaning is undertaken with biodegradable antibacterial cleaning products.
Why Does My Air Conditioning Smell Musty?
- Cause: As dust, dirt, and debris collect inside an air conditioning system’s filter, the resultant buildup can lead to the growth of mould, and mildew, especially in humid conditions.
- Solution: Contact Air Options and book a service call. Our engineer will then attend to replace or clean the system’s air filters.
Why Does My Air Conditioning Smell Like Damp?
- Cause: Over time, dust, grease, contaminants and grime can accumulate on an air conditioning system’s evaporator coil, especially if filters are damaged or have not been maintained frequently enough.
- Solution: Contact Air Options and book a service call. Our engineer will then attend to clean the evaporator coils and replace or clean the system’s filters with the appropriate biodegradable, antibacterial cleaning products.
Why Does My Air Conditioning Smell Like Burning?
- Cause: Electrical components or brushed motors used within older air conditioning systems may start to overheat, especially if they are faulty, have faulty bearings, or have been incorrectly installed.
- Solution: Have a qualified person turn the system off immediately and contact Air Options to book a service call. Our engineer will then attend to identify the source of the problem, make sure the system is safe, and repair it if possible.
Why Does My Air Conditioning Smell Like Solvent?
- Cause: Whilst smelling any refrigerant gas leakage is rare, refrigerant leaks can produce a very faint solvent/chemical smell. However, it should be noted that most people would be unable to detect a refrigerant leak owing to the fact it would take a lot more refrigerant gas than is used within a modern split style system for it to become detectable. That said, with all systems, especially larger installations, refrigerant leakage can happen over time and could be due to faulty heat exchangers or poor installation.
- Solution: If there is a suspicion the system has suffered a refrigerant leak, turn it off immediately and contact Air Options to book a service call. Our engineer will then attend to identify the source of the smell, make sure the system is safe, pressure test it, locating the leak and repairing it where required.
SHOULD MY AIR CONDITIONING SMELL?
It is crucial to note that a well-maintained air conditioning system should not smell of anything, and if it does, it usually suggests that the air conditioning system is in need of a service, or has developed a fault.
If the air conditioning system is producing any of the odours detailed above, or a concerning odour that isn’t listed above, contact us today and our friendly office staff will be pleases to help.