A strong smell coming from the air conditioner is not normal and may indicate problems that affect not only the performance of the appliance, but also your health. Identifying the cause of the odor is the first step to effectively correcting the problem.
.jpg)
1. Musty or Damp Smell
This is the most common smell and is usually caused by:
Dust and moisture build-up in the filters
Dirty coils
Condensate tray with water build-up
Solution:
Clean the filters and check whether the appliance needs to be completely sanitized. If the bad smell persists, it is recommended to hire a technical cleaning service with bactericidal products.
2. Burning Smell
This may indicate:
Wires in poor contact
Overheated electrical components
Dust accumulated on heated internal parts
Solution:
Turn off the appliance immediately and call a technician. Avoid using until the cause is identified, as it may pose a risk of short circuit.
3. Smell of Gas or Chemicals
A smell similar to acetone, glue or chemicals may be a sign of:
A refrigerant gas leak (such as R-410A or R-22)
Problems with the installation or wear on the connections
Solution:
Do not attempt to fix it yourself. Call a specialized technician to check the refrigeration system.
4. Smell of Dead Animals or Rot
This may indicate the presence of:
Small insects or dead animals inside the unit
Dirt accumulated in poorly maintained environments
Solution:
Conduct a complete inspection and, if necessary, have the interior thoroughly cleaned by a professional.
5. Smell of Cigarettes
If the environment is frequented by smokers, the odor may accumulate in the filters and coils.
Solution:
Perform a complete cleaning and use air purifiers or activated charcoal in the environment.
Tips to Avoid Unpleasant Odors
Clean the filters every 15 days
Perform technical cleaning every 6 months
Use the "dry" mode to reduce internal humidity
Check for proper drainage of condensed water
Conclusion
A strong odor coming from the air conditioner is a sign that something is wrong. Whether it is a simple accumulation of dust or a gas leak, identifying and solving the problem quickly ensures safety, health and greater durability of your equipment.
