As temperatures rise across Southern Nevada, many homeowners are flipping on their air conditioners for the first time in a while. But for some, the longer the air conditioner runs, the more noticeable unpleasant smells become. If you’ve noticed a strange odor coming from your air conditioner, it could be more than just an inconvenience, it might be a sign of a deeper issue. At LV Heating & Cooling, we will share what those air conditioner odors mean and what to do about them. Below are some of the most common smells and their likely causes.
Dirty Sock Syndrome
That musty, gym-sock odor coming from your vents? It’s not your imagination and it’s more common than you might think. This odor typically points to bacterial growth on your condenser coils. When these coils become dirty and moist, bacteria can flourish, creating a smell similar to dirty laundry. Schedule a professional cleaning. The condenser coils need to be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, not only to eliminate the odor but also to protect your indoor air quality. Left untreated, some bacteria can even cause respiratory issues.
Burning or Gunpowder Smell
If you notice a burning smell or something that resembles gunpowder, this is a serious red flag. It could indicate overheating components, electrical shorts, or a failing motor inside the air conditioner unit. Turn off your air conditioner immediately. If you see smoke or suspect a fire, call 911. If there are no signs of active fire, contact an HVAC technician as soon as possible. Electrical issues inside your HVAC system are not something to ignore.
Exhaust Fume Odor
Does your home suddenly smell like car exhaust? While your air conditioner doesn’t use combustion, it still has fluids and components that can emit a fume-like smell if something is wrong. A smell like this often is a sign of a refrigerant or fluid leak. When these fluids come into contact with hot components inside the unit, they can produce an exhaust-like odor. A technician will need to identify and repair the leak and check the entire system for additional damage.
Garbage or Rotten Smell
If your home starts to smell like rotting trash when the air conditioner runs, you may have a pest problem. Sometimes rodents or other animals find their way into the ductwork or attic and either bring food debris with them or, unfortunately, die inside the system. If you suspect pests are the cause, call a pest control professional followed by an HVAC technician to inspect and clean your air ducts. While pest issues are uncommon in some parts of Southern Nevada, areas experiencing rodent activity like roof rats can develop foul odors quickly.
Musty or Mildew Odor
A musty, damp smell coming from your vents typically signal excess moisture in your system. This environment allows mold and mildew to grow, especially inside ductwork or near your evaporator coils. Musty odors should never be ignored. Mold exposure can lead to serious health risks. An HVAC technician can identify the source of the moisture, clean out mold growth, and help prevent future buildup by improving drainage and airflow.
Central Air Conditioning Inspections, Tune Ups, Repair, Replacement & More in Summerlin, North LV, Henderson, Enterprise, Paradise, Spring Valley, Sunrise Manor & Greater Las Vegas, NV
Unusual odors from your air conditioner are your system’s way of telling you that something’s not right. Whether it’s a sign of bacterial buildup, fluid leaks, or something more serious like an electrical fault, acting quickly can prevent further damage and protect your home’s air quality. If your air conditioner is giving off strange smells or you just need a professional check-up, don’t wait. Call LV Heating & Cooling today to schedule a service and restore clean, fresh air to your home.
