When you finally kick on your air conditioner for the first time, and revel in the fact that summer is here, the last thing you want to think about is air conditioner maintenance.
Unfortunately, if that cool air is accompanied by a musty, mildew-y scent, you’ve got some work to do.
The culprit behind that odor could be slime/algae and or possible mold growth.
What’s That Smell?
Unfortunately, that mildew-y smell wafting in with your cool air probably is exactly what it smells like. Mold and mildew can build up when they find a nice damp, dark place to hide, and sometimes that includes your air conditioning system.
While it’s not an immediate threat, possible growths in your homes air conditioning and ductwork system could be circulation throughout your home affecting those on your home especially sensitive to poor indoor air quality, this could quickly turn into a serious problem.
De-Funking Your AC
There are several places that standing water and excessive moisture can create issues in your home, such as your AC coils, condensate drain line, or air ducts. When not shown the proper TLC, such as with regular tune-ups, problems like small leaks in the air ducts, or a little clogging in the drain line could turn into a breeding ground for possible mold growth if not addressed soon enough.
Evaporator Coil
If it turns out your evaporator coil is housing the problem, make sure your coil is getting cleaned on your scheduled maintenance visit. Cleaning AC coils as a DIY project often ends up costing the ambitious homeowner, as it’s a very delicate, specialized job. We’d recommend calling in a professional.
Regular cleanings can’t keep up? Ask your technician about installing a UV lamp to kill bacteria in your system, which cuts down on mold growth.
Condensate Drain Line
When your air conditioner is running normally, water drips off the coil and into a pan below, which then drains away. However, if that drainline gets clogged, moisture builds up in the pan which is a terrific breeding ground for possible mold growth if left untreated.
The process of unclogging and cleaning up the drain line is a little less delicate, so if you’re particularly handy, you might try cleaning it on your own. If you’re less inclined to get your hands dirty, it’s time to call for help.
Air Ducts
Homeowners don’t always think of their air ducts as a part of the problem when they’re struggling with their AC, but these dark, often dirty spaces are prime places. If your ducts are leaking, or if the air coming out of your heating and cooling system isn’t as clean as you’d like, dust and dirt can easily collect in the ducts around your home. Add a little moisture, and you’ve got everything you need.
On top of cleaning the inside of those ducts, there are probably some leaks that need to be fixed to prevent future growth. Duct cleaning and repair is most definitely a job you’ll want done right – so call the professionals.
If you’re tired of the musty, mildew-y smell hanging around your house, get help from the professionals today! Call Supreme Service Today at (410) 522-1764, or request a service online.
