How do you get rid of smells coming from the AC vents?

Air conditioners are expected to provide adequate and clean air, not the other way around. In hot weather, we rely on our air conditioning systems to keep us cool and comfortable. However, an issue such as a foul stench emanating from the air conditioning vents might be disastrous. Because a properly functioning AC vent fan should spread air equally throughout the home, it’s not always possible to determine where the smell is coming from. Depending on the severity of your problem, you may be able to address it yourself with simple at-home remedies, or you may need the assistance of Eagle Rock HVAC repair experts. As we’ve seen with the numerous sorts of air duct smells, these distinct odors can have a variety of causes and treatments. Extensive issues may require you to avail Eagle Rock Prestige HVAC services. The most prevalent problem, by far, is a musty stench in the air vents, which you may try to resolve on your own. These musty scents are generally caused by mold or mildew somewhere in the system, signaling that a thorough cleaning is necessary. Here are some of the ways how you can get rid of the bad odor on your own:

1. Clean the evaporator coil. This component of an air conditioner is responsible for the cooling process. Unfortunately, it can quickly become dirty and harbor mold and mildew. However, you can always clean it on your own by following the steps below:
   • • Remove the access panel
     • Vacuum up dirt and debris
     • Check for bent fins
     • Spray-clean the coils
     • Reassemble
2. Unclog the air conditioner’s condensate drain line. It is where the excess moisture drains out of the AC unit from the collection pan. When the clog happens here, the water can’t drain properly and can back up the collection pan, increasing the risk of mold growth. To clean this part, you may use a wet vacuum cleaner in order for you to remove whatever is clogging the drain pipe.
3. Clean the filter. AC filters are the most accessible part for molds to grow, but this component of your HVAC unit is also the easiest part to clean. All you have to do is follow the steps listed below:
   • • Remove the filter from your HVAC and use your vacuum to clean away all the dust and dirt.
     • Wipe them with a clean dusting cloth to remove the remaining dust. When you hold the filter up to the light and if you see that nothing is shining through, replacing them is the best option.
     • Place your cleaned or new filter back in place and run the system to see if the smell is not present anymore.
4. Use duct filter pads. Sometimes air conditioner odors are innocuous yet bothersome, and determining the source is impossible. If you’ve tried everything else to get rid of an odor coming from your air conditioning vents without success, duct filter pads are a quick cure.
5. Hire professionals when necessary. If you have tried some DIY solutions and you’re still seeing odors coming from your air conditioning vents, it’s time to call in a professional. Here are some more clear signs that you need the assistance of a qualified specialist:
   • • Pests and critters
     • Significant mold growth
     • Larger clogs in the ducts
     • Other unidentified duct issues

Four Reasons Why Your AC Vent Has Bad Odor

When you first switch on your air conditioner, you expect to be welcomed by lovely, chilly air. If the air coming from your AC vent smells bad, you may have a significant problem with your hands. Some odors are just unpleasant, while others are dangerous. Learn to recognize the difference and take the necessary steps to eradicate the stink. Here are some common reasons why your AC vent has a bad odor:

• Mildew

Because your AC unit dehumidifies the air as it cools, mildew is the most prevalent stench to emanate from an AC vent. Excess water gathered from the air that is not adequately drained away might encourage mold and mildew to form. Even a filthy filter can support mold development, so replace it regularly.

• Stagnant Water

Stagnant water in an air conditioner can cause the odor of smelly feet to emerge from the air vents. A brief cleaning and repair to aid future water drainage could solve the issue.

• Injured Bird or Sick Rodent

If an injured bird or sick mouse got into your air ducts during the winter, it might have perished and started decaying, emitting a rotten egg odor. It’s a disgusting concept, but it’s not very harmful. However, you should still have a heating and conditioning specialist remove the animal as soon as possible.

• Permeating Cigarette Odor

If you or a family member smokes, the gasses might be drawn into the evaporator coil. Every time you turn on the air conditioner, the stench enters the coil and sends the scent of old cigarettes into your home. The problem can be resolved by cleaning the coil regularly. It is always important that you seek help from professionals for you to get rid of the bad odor that comes out of your AC vent. When the need arises, all you need to do is call Eagle Rock Prestige HVAC right away so we can remove that stinky smell ASAP.