Imagine coming home after a long day, expecting to relax in the cool comfort of your air-conditioned space, only to be hit with an unpleasant odour as soon as you step inside. Strange odours coming from your aircon aren’t just irritating — they can indicate underlying issues that need immediate attention.

So, let’s break down the most common air conditioning smells, uncover the reasons behind them, and explore some practical solutions that will resolve these issues.

1. Musty Odours

If your air conditioner is releasing a musty smell, it’s a telltale sign of mould or mildew growth. This typically occurs when moisture builds up inside the unit or ductwork, providing a breeding ground for fungi. The moist environment, combined with dust and dirt, encourages this unpleasant growth, which can then spread through the air when you run your AC.

Solution:

To eliminate this air conditioning smell, schedule a general servicing. A professional technician will clean the internal components, including filters, coils, and ducts, to remove any buildup of mould and mildew. Regular maintenance is key to preventing future occurrences and ensuring your unit functions efficiently.

2. Burning Smells

A burning air conditioning smell is not something to ignore. This could indicate an electrical or mechanical issue, such as overheating wiring, a malfunctioning motor, or damaged insulation. Continuing to run your air conditioner in this state could lead to severe damage or even fire hazards.

Solution:

For burning odours, turn off your air conditioner immediately and contact an expert aircon repair service provider. Professional aircon troubleshooting will help diagnose whether the issue stems from faulty wiring or a mechanical problem, ensuring it is addressed promptly to stop further damage.

3. Chemical or Plastic Odours

Chemical or plastic-like air conditioning smells often point to overheating components, such as the fan motor or internal plastic parts. This can also happen after a new system installation, where some parts may burn off residue left over from manufacturing. However, if the smell persists, it’s a sign that something is overheating, which could then cause much bigger problems.

Solution:

In such cases, it’s crucial to seek help from an aircon servicing specialist. A technician will inspect the components to identify and fix any overheating issues, ensuring your air conditioning system operates safely. Replacing faulty parts before they cause significant damage can save you time and money in the long run.

4. Rotten Egg or Sulphuric Smells

If your air conditioner emits a smell akin to rotten eggs or sulphur, this could mean that there is a gas leak present,  especially if you use a gas-powered air conditioner or have nearby gas appliances. Natural gas is odourless, but utility companies add a sulphur-like smell to alert users of leaks. A gas leak poses a serious safety risk and requires immediate action.

Solution:

Turn off your air conditioner and evacuate the area if you detect this smell. Contact your gas company and an HVAC professional right away to resolve the issue. While gas-powered air conditioning units are less common, nearby gas leaks can still enter your system, so a thorough inspection is essential to ensure safety.

If you're experiencing any strange air conditioning smells or other issues with your unit, don’t wait until the problem worsens. Contact Coldway Aircon, your trusted expert when it comes to servicing an air conditioner unit. From installation to aircon general servicing, we offer comprehensive solutions to keep your system running smoothly. 

Reach out to us today for fast, reliable service that keeps your space cool and odour-free!