Why is There a Strange Smell in the Long-time Air-conditioned Room?

In summer and winter, an air conditioner has become our lifesaver. But many people think that after running the air conditioner for a period, a musty, sour, or unpleasant smell spreads in the room. It not only influences comfort but also indicates a low air quality. So why is there a strange smell in the long-time air-conditioned room?

1. Mold growth

The indoor evaporator produces condensate water when cooling; if the drainage system is bad, it will create a wet environment.

Mold and bacteria reproduce here, bringing smells into the room when the air is supplied. This is often the cause of a musty smell when the air conditioner is turned on.

2. Dust accumulation on filter and vent

Dust, pollen, hair, and other impurities in the air accumulate on the filter.

When these impurities combine with humidity, they ferment and produce a sour, rancid smell. Impellers and air ducts that haven't been cleaned for a long time can also contribute to the smell.

3. Low air quality

Long-time air conditioning means the room is closed. Carbon dioxide from human breath, formaldehyde from the furniture, and smells from the pets all will accumulate inside the room.

The air conditioner can cool and heat the indoor air but cannot supply fresh air. The indoor air will be more and more muddy.

4. Drainage pipe or parts failure

If the drainage pipe is clogged, the condensate will go backward and produce a rotten smell. What's more, on old air conditioners, the plastic or insulation parts will produce smells as well.

5. How to prevent air conditioner odor?

Keep regular cleaning: clean the filter and prepare an annual deep maintenance.

Keep the AC dry: Run the air conditioning units for a while before shutting them down.

Ventilate the room frequently: ventilate at least twice a day for at least 15 minutes each time.

Choose a self-cleaning air conditioner: Use frost-melting water to flush the evaporator for a cleaner and more worry-free experience.

A strange air conditioning smell is not a small issue; it affects our air quality and health. Most of the time, if we do better on cleaning, ventilation, and drying the air conditioner, we shall improve the air quality.