If you turn on A/C and smell a musty smell, chances are your cooling system might have mold or mildew growth. This can be a hazard to you and your family’s health, and needs to be dealt with promptly. Moreover, mold and mildew have a foul smell that could cause discomfort in your home. Knowing the causes of mold and mildew growth in an air conditioning unit can help you address the problem. Some of the common causes can be found below:
Common causes of mildew smell from A/C
- Dirty or clogged filter The filter traps all dust, dirt, and particles from entering the air you breathe. If the filter is not able to work correctly, it can impede on the ability of your A/C unit to work as a dehumidifier. The moisture may be trapped in the unit, causing mold or mildew to grow. Therefore, when the air blows it smells bad.
- Clogged drip pan Your air conditioner may be causing condensation, and that liquid needs a place to go. If it cannot get through the drainage lines to the drip pan, it could cause mold and mildew to build up. This smell will be spread through the property when the A/C kicks on.
- Clogged condensation drain line As your A/C performs its dehumidifying processes, it will draw the moisture from the air. Typically, that liquid is then carried away from the property via a drain line. If this line is clogged, then the water has nowhere to go and it can lead to the growth of mold and mildew.
- Moist ductwork The A/C ducts carry the cool air throughout your home. Poorly insulated ducts can lead to moisture buildup and condensation. When that happens, the ducts will leak, creating an environment for mold and mildew to grow. The ducts might also transport mold and mildew throughout your home, creating a larger problem.
Internal problems
Sometimes interior of air conditioning system can become dirty or have bigger issues that have mildew growth. Faulty parts or malfunctioning pieces could cause issues with mold and mildew. If you have tried to address the issue related to the common causes yourself, but you are still unable to fix the problem, it may be time to seek a professional.
When to seek a professional
When it comes to HVAC systems, it is always better to be safe than sorry. It can be smart to consult a professional HVAC specialist to come and inspect your unit. He or she can pinpoint problem areas and offer solutions. If there is a technical problem with the unit, he or she can also repair it and get your unit back in proper working order. Sometimes, however, you may have to replace your A/C. Click the image at the end of this article. Additionally, if you notice large areas of mold or mildew growth on your ceilings, you might have to hire a professional to remove it.
When it is hot outside and you want to enjoy the cooling effects of your air conditioner, the last thing you want to worry about is a foul smell. Now that you know the causes of mold and mildew growth in the A/C, you can regularly check your unit for signs of them.
For more advice on HVAC services or to schedule an inspection, contact us today.