Your A/C is supposed to produce cool, refreshing air. So why does it suddenly smell like rotten eggs?
If your home air smells like rotten eggs, frayed wires, strong chemicals, or sewage, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog we tackle what each smell indicates and how to fix it, plus when to call a professional. Let’s get started!
A musty smell usually means there’s mold or mildew growing within your HVAC system, often in the evaporator coils or air ducts, as the result of excess moisture build up.
If your home is starting to smell like a swamp, check to see if your air filter has grown moldy and replace it if necessary. Cleaning the evaporator coils and the drip pan is also important.
To prevent mold from becoming a recurring problem, consider using a dehumidifier to lower moisture levels. Also make sure to clean any visible mold in the ductwork that you can easily access.
If the musty smell lingers after cleaning, or if you suspect mold growth in hard-to-reach areas, like deep within the ductwork, it’s best to contact a Pomona Valley Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning professional.
Burning smells often signal an electrical issue resulting from overheating components, a motor problem, or debris inside the system.
To avoid further damage, immediately turn off your A/C. Once it’s off, examine the area around the unit for any visible debris and remove it if it’s safe to do so. Also, make sure the air filter is both clean and correctly installed.
If the smell persists after cleaning, or if you hear unusual rattling sounds, call a Pomona Valley Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning professional technician right away, as this usually indicates a serious electrical problem.
The smell of sulfur or rotten eggs should concern you, as this may indicate a gas leak or the presence of a dead animal within the system.
First, turn off the gas supply and leave the area immediately. If you suspect the smell is due to a dead animal rather than a gas leak, check accessible areas in the ducts or the outdoor unit.
For a gas leak, contact your gas company and an HVAC technician immediately. If you’re unable to find or safely remove a dead animal, it’s wise to have a Pomona Valley Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning professional clean and sanitize the system.
A strong chemical odor, resembling paint thinner or industrial solvents, might mean your A/C is leaking refrigerant.
If you suspect a refrigerant leak, turn off the A/C to prevent further leakage, then ventilate the space by opening doors and windows.
Refrigerant leaks are hazardous and necessitate immediate attention from a Pomona Valley Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning professional who can repair the leak and recharge your system.
If your home smells like exhaust, it might indicate a fluid leak within your A/C system.
To prevent further damage, turn off your A/C immediately and check the unit for any visible leaks, especially if your system is older.
If the exhaust smell continues, or if you can’t find the source, this is a sign of a more serious issue that requires professional assistance.
The smell of sewage likely indicates a backed-up drain line.
If you feel up to it, inspect and clean the condensate drain line to ensure that all plumbing vents are clear.
If the smell persists after cleaning the drain line or if you suspect a more complex plumbing problem, it’s smart to call a Pomona Valley Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning professional technician to address the issue.
Breathe easier with fresher air. If your A/C is emitting funny smells and you’re not comfortable fixing it yourself, reach out to a Pomona Valley Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning professional HVAC technician today.
Walnut, CA 91789 | (714) 582-0173
