When it’s scorching hot outside in the Valley of the Sun, your air conditioning system is your best friend. But, what if it stinks? AC units can produce offensive odors that are difficult to ignore, and sometimes that not-so-pleasant aroma is a sign of a larger problem.
If you’re experiencing strange smells emanating from your air conditioning vents, it’s time to investigate the source. Here’s a list of four odors, what they may mean, and most importantly, what you can do about them.
Mildew “Dirty Sock” Smell
Since your air conditioning system works by removing excess heat and humidity from inside your house, excess water can pool outside your home. Your AC drainage lines and pans are the perfect places for mildew to thrive. When this condensation pools outside, it smells not unlike a pair of dirty socks. Though you may notice this odor when you first turn on your AC in February or March, moisture can build-up in your HVAC system any time of the year. Mold can grow on the evaporator coil from excess moisture which can be a serious health hazard for your family. Your local HVAC professionals are best suited to investigate the source of the smell and how it’s impacting your house’s air conditioning system and indoor air quality.
Electrical Burning Smell
This odor is impossible to overlook. It may be due to an overheating motor, malfunctioning fan blade, or melting electrical wiring issue. The acrid smell from indoor vents is a red flag that there’s potential for an electrical fire. Shut off the AC unit at the circuit breaker box and call for repairs. If the burning smell continues after shutting down the system, immediately call 911. You don’t want to risk your family’s safety.
Rotten Egg Smell
If you smell sulfur indoors, it smells like rotten eggs, it’s probably a natural gas leak making its way into your ventilation system. Even though natural gas is odorless, utility companies add the rotten eggs aroma so these dangerous leaks can be smelled. If you smell gas, call 911, immediately evacuate your family and pets safely away from your home, and turn off your gas supply if you know where it is located.
Stinky Trash Smell
A sour, foul smelling trash odor means you most likely have a dead critter trapped in the AC ductwork. Mice, rats, squirrels, chipmunks, birds, and other furry critters can lead to foul smells inside your home.
Call Bruce’s
Attempting to fix any of the sources of AC smells yourself has the potential of making matters worse. Call your skilled technicians at Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating today at 480-968-5652. We’re here 24/7 to help get your AC unit working smell-free.
