As the summer months approach, you’ll rely more on your air conditioning system to keep your home cool and comfortable. However, if you notice any strange or unpleasant (and potentially dangerous) odors coming from your AC system, it could be a sign of a serious problem. Axsom Air will walk you through some AC odors you shouldn’t ignore and what they might indicate.
Why Does My AC Stink?
Although it’s not supposed to, your air conditioner can produce a variety of smells. These aromas link to a problem within your system. Knowing how to identify these odors can help you determine when to call a professional for repairs.
Musty Or Moldy Smells
A musty or moldy smell from your AC system indicates that mold or mildew is growing inside the unit or ductwork. This growth can be caused by high humidity levels or standing water in the system. Mold and mildew can cause serious health issues, such as:
- Asthma triggers
- Migraines
- Chronic fatigue
- Irritation of the eyes, nose and throat
- Skin rashes
- Respiratory infections
- Coughing and wheezing
- Shortness of breath
Long-term mold exposure is especially dangerous for those with allergies or respiratory issues. It’s crucial to keep mold and other fungi out of your system to avoid health problems. If you notice this odor, it’s important to have your AC system inspected by a qualified HVAC technician.
Burning Odors
A burning aroma coming from your system may be a sign of an electrical issue, such as a motor or wiring problem. It’s important to turn off the unit immediately and contact a professional technician to inspect the machinery. Continuing to use the AC system when there is an electrical issue can pose a fire risk and cause further damage to the unit.
Another cause of a burning odor could be dust on your system. Most homeowners don’t use their air conditioners in the winter due to the cold temperatures. Turning your system on after not using it for a while can cause dust to burn off the machinery. If this is the cause of the smell, the burning aroma should go away in less than an hour.
Chemical Or Burning Plastic Aroma
A chemical or burning plastic odor coming from your AC system is a sign of a serious problem, possibly an electrical issue or a refrigerant leak. In either case, it’s important to turn off the AC unit immediately and have it inspected by a professional HVAC technician. A refrigerant leak can pose a health risk, and continuing to use the system with a refrigerant leak can cause the AC to freeze and potentially lead to a complete system failure.
Rotten Egg Or Sulfur Smell
A rotten egg or sulfur are two of the most dangerous AC smells. If you notice these odors, it’s important to turn off the AC unit right away. Immediately leave your home, and contact your gas company or emergency services. A gas leak is a severe health and safety hazard that should be addressed instantly.
Natchitoches AC Repairs That You Can Count On
Axsom Air is committed to providing top-notch air conditioning services to keep your home comfortable all year round. Whether you need a routine maintenance check, repairs or a new AC installation, we’ve got you covered. Don’t suffer through another hot and humid summer without a properly functioning AC system. Contact us today to schedule your next air conditioning repair service.
