Air conditioning units are a blessing, especially during the hot summer months here in Burlington. They help regulate the temperature of our homes and workplaces, making the environment more comfortable and enjoyable. However, there are times when an air conditioning unit produces a foul odor when turned on, which can be quite unpleasant and unbearable. The reasons for this can vary, and it’s essential to identify the cause to prevent further damage to the air conditioning unit and ensure a comfortable living environment. In this blog post, we will explore the top reasons why an air conditioning unit would smell bad when turned on and how to address the problem.
Mold and Mildew
One of the most common reasons for a foul odor from an air conditioning unit is mold and mildew. Mold and mildew thrive in damp and humid conditions (which is the exact situation we find ourselves in during the Spring and Fall months here in North Carolina), making the air conditioning unit an ideal environment for growth. When the air conditioning unit is turned on, the mold and mildew spores are blown into the room, producing a musty odor. This odor can be quite overpowering and can trigger allergic reactions, making it essential to address the problem immediately.
To prevent mold and mildew growth in the air conditioning unit, it’s crucial to keep the unit clean and dry. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the unit will help prevent moisture buildup, which is essential for mold and mildew growth. Additionally, it’s important to replace the air filters regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and debris, which can also contribute to mold and mildew growth.
Dirty Air Filters
As mentioned earlier, dirty air filters can contribute to mold and mildew growth in the air conditioning unit. However, dirty air filters can also produce a foul odor when the unit is turned on. The air filters in an air conditioning unit are designed to trap dust, dirt, and other airborne particles, preventing them from entering the room. When the air filters are dirty, they can produce an unpleasant odor that is blown into the room when the unit is turned on.
To address this problem, it’s essential to replace the air filters regularly. The frequency of replacement depends on the type of air filter and the usage of the air conditioning unit. However, it’s recommended to replace the air filters at least once every three months to ensure optimum performance.
Electrical Problems
Another reason why an air conditioning unit may produce a foul odor when turned on is due to electrical problems. Electrical problems can cause overheating of the air conditioning unit, leading to the production of a burning smell. This burning smell can be quite strong and can indicate a serious problem with the unit that requires immediate attention.
If you notice a burning smell when the air conditioning unit is turned on, it’s essential to turn off the unit immediately and contact a professional technician. Attempting to diagnose and fix electrical problems on your own can be dangerous and can lead to further damage to the unit.
Dead Animals
Dead animals such as rodents, birds, or insects can also cause a foul odor when the air conditioning unit is turned on. These animals can enter the air conditioning unit and get trapped, leading to their death. When the air conditioning unit is turned on, the decomposing animal produces a foul odor that is blown into the room.
To address this problem, it’s essential to have the air conditioning unit inspected by a professional technician. The technician can identify and remove any dead animals from the unit and clean the unit to prevent further odor problems.
Chemicals
Finally, chemicals can also cause a foul odor when the air conditioning unit is turned on. Chemicals such as cleaning products, pesticides, or paint can produce a strong odor that can be blown into the room when the air conditioning unit is turned on. This odor can be quite overpowering and can cause health problems if inhaled for an extended period. To address this problem, we recommend improving your overall indoor air quality.
If your AC unit smells bad when you turn it on, we highly encourage you to give us a call for emergency air conditioning repair services. We are standing by 24/7 and are always ready to help you in any air conditioning related emergency. Click here to request an online estimate, click here to schedule your service entirely online, or call (336) 663-1370 today!
