Ductless AC Maintenance in River Vale, NJ: Why Does My AC Unit Smell Bad?

If you turn on your Mitsubishi Electric Ductless AC system and notice that there is a smell, then you may need to schedule AC maintenance. If so, then contact Air Temp. We specialize in AC repair, brand new installation, and AC maintenance in River Vale, NJ.

Below, we look at some causes of a bad smelling ductless AC. If you have any further questions or need to schedule service, then contact Air Temp today

There is Mold in the Drain System

Your ductless AC system produces condensation, which, in turn, runs down the drain and outside. Over time, mold can develop in the drainage system. If you do not maintain or clean your system regularly, the mold can get out of control.

Eventually, the mold will produce an odor that will spread throughout the house. You may notice the dirty sock smell as soon as you turn on the unit or if you walk into the house. If so, inspect the unit to see if any mold has developed. If so, an Air Temp technician can clean your system and remove the mold.

The Refrigerant is Leaking

The refrigerant absorbs heat and warmth from the air inside your home. The coils inside the AC may crack and allow some of the refrigerant to leak. If the leak is extensive, you can smell the refrigerant. What does it smell like? A sweet scent.

There are other symptoms of a refrigerant leak:

• Your ductless AC will not cool your home
• Your energy bills are higher than usual because the AC does not turn off
• There is a hissing noise coming from the unit
• Ice has developed on the refrigerant lines or evaporator coil

Dirty Air Filter

A dirty air filter can take on a wide range of smells because of the different types of dirt and dust that it collects. Thus, a filter can have a musty smell, a cigarette smell, or another type of pungent odor. The smell gradually gets worse and more consistent as the filter gets dirtier.

Fortunately, this is an easy fix. Mitsubishi Electric Ductless AC air filters are easy to clean or replace. Once you clean a filter, simply let it dry. If you replace the filter, then dispose of it and do not reuse it.