Repair a Smelly Air Conditioner
When you turn on your air conditioner, the last thing you want is a bad odor emanating from your ducting. Unfortunately, since air conditioners reside outside, they may trap foreign particles or debris that may rot and cause odors. The fact that air conditioners produce water as a waste product means that moisture can accumulate and allow mold or mildew to form that can also lead to odors. Fortunately, units are easily cleaned with bleach, commercial cleaners and water. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Turn off the power to the air conditioner. Find one end of the condensation line and carefully pull it loose. Pull the line free of the other end as well to completely remove the tubing from the air conditioner. Be careful when pulling it free as any water trapped inside may spill out all over you.
2. Flush the line with bleach and water solution to kill any mold and mildew that may have formed in or on the line. Rinse the line thoroughly and set the line aside to dry. Take out the air filter and dispose of it.
3. Remove the drip pan from the underside of the unit and drain any standing water. Use hot water, soap and a non-abrasive sponge to clean it and remove any sediment. If the pan still smells, use a mild bleach and water solution. Set the tray aside and let it dry completely.
4. Examine the interior of the air conditioner for anything that may not belong there and causes odors. Remove any debris, dead animals or rotting vegetation that may be trapped inside the unit.
5. Spray the evaporator coils with foaming coil cleaner. Follow the product instructions thoroughly to remove oil, dust or dirt and then rinse with a hose. Continue rinsing the interior until the water drains out and is relatively clear.
6. Reconnect the condensation line, replace the drip pan, and install a new air filter. Allow the unit to dry as much as possible before operating the air conditioner again. Check for odors, and repeat the process if necessary.
Tags: bleach water, bleach water solution, condensation line, mold mildew, Repair Smelly
