Need to plug your nose any time the AC kicks on? That’s not normal… and it’s definitely not adding to your comfort, either. Your air conditioner is designed to keep your home comfortable, but if you’re noticing strange smells whenever the system runs, it’s not doing its job.
We understand how stressful and inconvenient it can be to get hit with strange odors when you’re just trying to stay cool and comfortable in your home. Here are some of the most common reasons you might notice strange smells coming from your vents, as well as how to solve each.
Mold Growth
Mold and mildew emit musty, damp odors that can quickly cause headaches and lead to poor indoor air quality. Despite your best efforts to keep your home as clean and tidy as possible, mold can still grow in the air ducts or the AC system itself as moisture builds up, especially if the unit isn’t draining properly or the humidity levels are consistently high.
Over time, those mold spores can spread through your vents and into your living space every time the system kicks on. You might notice the smell is strongest when the air conditioner first starts up or in rooms farther from the main unit.
How to Address Mold Growth
Start by scheduling a professional inspection to confirm whether mold is present in your ductwork, evaporator coils, or drain pan. Certified technicians can safely clean and sanitize affected components and recommend steps to prevent future growth. You might also need to replace your air filter, improve ventilation, or add a dehumidifier if excess moisture is a recurring issue. Regular maintenance and keeping the system dry are key to keeping mold at bay.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant leaks can cause a wide range of problems, some as serious as a complete lack of cooling. Usually described as a chemical or even slightly sweet scent, this smell can be a warning sign that your AC system is losing the substance it needs to function properly. When refrigerant levels drop, your air conditioner has to work much harder to cool your home, putting strain on your compressor and increasing your energy bills.
How to Address Refrigerant Leaks
Your air conditioner’s refrigerant levels should never decrease under normal conditions. The only reason they would drop is if you’re dealing with a refrigerant leak. Since refrigerant is a hazardous substance and essential to your AC’s performance, this is an issue that should always be handled by licensed AC repair technicians.
A pro can pinpoint the source of the leak, make any necessary repairs, and recharge the system with the proper type and amount of refrigerant. Not only does this put an end to the smell, but it’ll keep your air conditioning unit running at its best.
Burning Electrical Components
Trust us, we know it’s easy to panic when you smell a burning smell. If you’re only noticing it after your AC kicks on, it’s likely due to overheating wires, a malfunctioning motor, or damaged insulation within the air conditioning system itself. Your system’s electrical components naturally generate heat when used, but it should never result in a smoky, plastic-like, or scorched odor coming through the vents. This kind of smell can be an early warning sign of a serious issue.
How to Address Burning Electrical Components
As soon as you notice burning smells coming from your vents, turn the air conditioner off immediately to prevent further damage and to keep your home safe. Then, contact a trusted local professional for emergency repairs.
They can inspect the electrical components, identify any damaged wires or failing parts, and provide the best solution. This type of problem often stems from aging equipment, power surges, or a lack of maintenance, and regular maintenance in the future can prevent problems going forward.
Trapped Debris
As air circulates throughout the home and back to the HVAC system, it’ll naturally pick up dust, dirt, pet hair, and other small particles along the way. But that might not be all that’s found its way into your air ducts—sometimes, small animals like mice, birds, or insects can sneak into the system, especially if there are gaps or cracks in the ductwork. If one of these critters gets trapped and can’t make its way out, it can unfortunately pass away inside the ducts, leading to a strong, unpleasant odor that spreads through the vents.
How to Address Trapped Debris
A thorough ductwork inspection and cleaning is the best first step if you suspect something is stuck inside your HVAC system. A professional can locate and safely remove any debris, animal remains, or buildup that may be causing the odor. They’ll also check for signs of pest activity and seal up any openings or vulnerable areas where critters might be sneaking in.
Looking for AC Repair in Bettendorf, IA? Schedule With Schebler Heating and Air!
When the summer months roll around, you shouldn’t have to wonder if your central air conditioner is ready for the many months of cooling ahead. Strange smells are often some of the first signs of trouble, and catching them early can save you from bigger breakdowns later on. Whether it’s mold, a refrigerant leak, or something stuck in your ducts, our team can diagnose the issue and get your system back to running clean and cool.
Give Schebler Heating and Air a call today to schedule an appointment for air conditioning repair in Bettendorf, IA, and the surrounding Quad Cities area.