There’s nothing quite as frustrating as a smelly air conditioner in Melbourne, especially when it’s the thing you rely on to keep your space cool and fresh. 

An unpleasant smell coming from an air conditioner can be caused by a variety of issues, and understanding these can help you resolve the problem quickly. In this blog, we’ll dive into the reasons why your aircon smells musty and how to fix it.

What’s Making Your Split System Air Conditioner Smell?

1. Dirty Filters and Coils

If you are questioning “Why does my aircon smell bad?”, one of the most common causes, particularly the musty smell, is dirty filters and coils. Air filters trap dust, dirt, and allergens. Over time, these contaminants can build up, blocking airflow and leading to the growth of mould and bacteria.

2. Clogged Drains and Condensate Line

When water or moisture builds up inside your air conditioner, it can start to smell. Split system air conditioners cool the air, causing moisture to condense and drain out. But if the drain line gets clogged, the water can’t flow properly and gets trapped inside. This trapped water can create stale moisture, leading to musty smells.

3. High Humidity Levels

If your air conditioning system has been exposed to excess moisture or if the humidity levels in your home are high, mould and mildew can develop. When these fungi grow on the evaporator coils or inside the ducts, they release spores into the air, resulting in that distinctive, unpleasant odour.

4. Leaks and Refrigerant Issues

In some cases, if the refrigerant levels in your split system are too low or there’s a leak, the system might emit an odd, chemical smell. This type of smell is often described as pungent or sour. If you’re experiencing this issue, your system will also not be able to cool the space effectively.

5. Electrical Fault

Sometimes, split systems emit a burnt smell when there’s an issue with the electrical components of the unit. If the wires or the motor overheat, they can produce a distinct electrical or burnt plastic smell. This could indicate a serious electrical fault, such as a short circuit or damaged wiring. If you notice this smell, turn off your air conditioner immediately to prevent further damage or potential fire hazards.

DIY vs. Professional Service: What You Can Fix and When to Call a Pro

When it comes to maintaining your split system air conditioner, there are some tasks you can handle on your own, and others that require the expertise of a professional. Here’s a breakdown of what’s safe to do yourself and when you should call in a pro.

DIY Fixes

  • Cleaning or replacing your filters helps improve airflow and air quality, and it’s a simple task you can do yourself.
  • You can clean the coils using a soft brush or vacuum attachment to remove dirt. Coil cleaners are also available for deeper cleaning.
  • If your air conditioner’s drain line gets clogged, you can use a wet-dry vacuum or a plumber’s snake to clear the line. 

Professional Service

  • If you suspect your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant or it’s running low, you’ll need a professional to handle it. Refrigerant leaks can be tricky to locate and repair, and improper handling can cause serious damage.
  • If you notice electrical smells or strange noises coming from the unit, it’s time to call a professional. Electrical problems are dangerous and require a technician to assess and repair the components safely.
  • Mould or mildew growth inside the system, especially in the coils or ductwork, is something that requires professional cleaning. Mould can spread quickly and affect air quality, so it’s important to have it properly cleaned to avoid health risks.

How to Prevent Your Split System from Smelling

Now that we’ve explored some common reasons for a smelly air conditioner, let’s talk about prevention. Here’s how you can keep your air conditioner smelling fresh:

1. Keep the Area Around the Unit Dry

If your split system is installed near a source of moisture, such as a bathroom or kitchen, make sure that the area around the unit stays dry. As mentioned before, high humidity can promote mould and mildew growth, so maintaining a dry environment will help to keep your air conditioner smelling fresh.

2. Run the Unit Regularly

Even if you don’t need cooling, it’s a good idea to run your air conditioner for short periods during the off-season. This helps keep the moisture inside the unit from stagnating, reducing the risk of your split system smelling musty.

3. Schedule Professional Servicing

Regular professional servicing and cleaning are key to preventing odours and ensuring your air conditioner runs efficiently. A technician will clean the internal components, check for mould, leaks, dirt build-up, and address any issues before they become major problems. This will help keep your system running at its best and free from unpleasant smells.

Conclusion

If you’ve been dealing with a smelly air conditioner, you’re likely already frustrated. The good news is that some of the issues can be fixed on your own. But if the problem persists or you’re noticing more concerning smells, it’s best to call our team of specialists for split system repairs.

If you’re not sure where to start or need help, give us a call at 1300 229 897 or fill out our online form. At 24 Hour Trade Services, we’re here to get your aircon working as it should, so you can breathe easy again!