What causes a bad smell from your air conditioner?

How to address mould in your air con this summer

It’s a common problem here in Southeast Queensland – that unfortunate smell that inevitably emanates from your air con, just when you want to switch it on when the weather gets hotter!
So what causes this foul odour – and is there anything you can do about it? We asked Jaric’s air conditioning experts for their advice.

The cause of bad odour from air conditioners

The most common cause of bad air con smells is mould and mildew growth. This can easily accumulate in your air conditioner system during the summer months when the humidity is higher here in Southeast Queensland. You probably won’t notice this mould throughout winter when the air conditioner is in heating mode, but as the weather warms up again and you switch back to cooling mode, your air con will release the musty odour of mould into your home.

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to avoid such aromas!

1) Carry out regular maintenance & servicing
Make sure you change and clean the air filters, clean the coils, and ensure proper drainage to prevent moisture buildup that can cause mould growth.
2) Arrange a professional cleaning
Engaging a professional air conditioner technician to perform a thorough clean and service can eliminate existing mould and prevent future growth. It’s especially useful if the bad smell persists after you’ve attempted basic maintenance yourself.
3) Clean your air con’s ducts
Over time, dirt, dust and mould can accumulate in your air conditioner’s ducts, contributing to the unpleasant odour. It’s a good idea to have your air ducts professionally cleaned and serviced to eliminate bad smells and improve air quality.
4) Ensure proper ventilation
It’s a great idea to ensure that your home has adequate ventilation in areas that are prone to moisture, such as your bathrooms and kitchen. This will help to reduce humidity levels and prevent mould growth.
5) Choose the right air conditioner
Some systems have the capacity to have a “run out period” once you turn the air con off. This helps to dry the air con and reduce the chances of mould growth.

Contact Jaric Air Conditioning for expert advice on your home air con

The expert team at Jaric can offer you the advice you need for your air conditioning. To find out more, call Jaric Electrical & Air Conditioning on 1300 452 742 or contact us online.

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