Every time your air conditioner turns on, do you notice a musty smell? When you’re AC is properly working, your home should feel cool and comfortable. But as time passes, things begin to need maintenance. Air conditioners usually show visual signs of maintenance issues, but sometimes it may be a smell that alarms you. If you notice a musty smell coming from your vents then it’s usually a sign of mold or mildew present in your system. There are a few things that you can check in order to be sure.
Clogged Condensate Drain
If you notice you’re a/c shutting off after only a short time running and water is flowing to the condensate pan, then there is a high possibility that the drain is clogged. Normally, the condensation forms on the evaporator coil, then drops into the drain and then exits through the drain line. If water is collecting in the drain pan not draining like it should be then mold has an easy way to begin growing. In order to fix the issue, you can either clear the condensate drain line yourself by turning off your a/c and flushing the drain line with distilled vinegar. Let the vinegar sit for about 30 minutes then flush the drain line. Repeat this step each month to prevent blockage.
Leaking Air Ducts
If your air conditioner is running but it still isn’t at a comfortable temperature then it is quite possible that your air ducts has a leakage. A majority of the leaks take place in the attic, which is a breeding ground for dust and mold. With air leaking into the attic or other non-living areas, dust particles and allergens can easily seep into the air duct and enter your home. If you believe you may have a leak in your air ducts, contact an HVAC professional to schedule an appointment. American Air Cares is currently running a special for duct cleaning.
Dirty Evaporator Coil
Two issues that may arise are an iced-up evaporator coil, or weak air flow coming through the vents. It can be difficult to keep your coil free from dirt because the coil itself attracts dirt based on the position it’s on. The coil is located in a dark area, and there is warm air continuously blowing near it. Moisture forms on and around the coil, allowing mold to find a new home. If you think the evaporator coil is the issue, have your HVAC specialist come and professionally clean the coil.
If you haven’t done so already, schedule a maintenance visit to ensure you’re air conditioner is working properly and free from any issues. For AC repair in Port St. Lucie, and surrounding areas, our expert technicians will be glad to answer your concerns.
