Dangerous Smells Coming From Your AC That Shouldn't Be Ignored

Make sure to get annual maintenance on your HVAC systems to uphold your warranties.

Dangerous Smells Coming From Your AC That Shouldn't Be Ignored

Dangerous Smells Coming From Your AC That Shouldn't Be Ignored

30 January 2023
 Categories:
, Blog


When your air conditioner cycles on and the fan starts blowing air into your home, the air shouldn't really have a smell. If you do notice a distinct smell, this could be a warning sign that there is something wrong with your AC unit. There are several smells, in particular, you should watch out for because they can be very dangerous.

A Burning Smell

One of the more concerning smells that might come out of an air conditioner is a burning smell. The burning smell could be a sign that there is something wrong with your AC that is mechanical. There might be an issue with the fan motor or with the wires.

If you detect a burning plastic smell, this is a warning sign that multiple components of your AC are burning. Do not smell the fumes because they can potentially be dangerous. Turn the AC off, open the windows, and allow some fresh air into your home.

The Smell of Rotten Eggs

Another smell you need to be concerned about is rotten eggs. This is an odor that usually indicates that you have a carbon monoxide leak. Carbon monoxide does not have a smell, normally, but chemicals are added so that a household can know when they have a carbon monoxide leak.

The Threat of Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. In addition to this threat, carbon monoxide can also create a fire and explosion risk. Therefore, you'll want to make sure that you do not turn on any electronics when you smell carbon monoxide.

AC Odors Can Indicate Several Other Problems

The rotten egg smell doesn't always come from carbon monoxide. For example, a rodent might have died inside your vents and is causing the smell. Therefore, you should make sure that your AC unit is inspected by an AC repair technician. Your AC might also need to be inspected if there are any other strange smells such as mold or chemicals.

If you notice any strange or concerning smells coming out of your AC, it's important to contact an AC repair technician as soon as you can. It can be difficult to know the exact cause of your defective AC if you do not have the training necessary to diagnose it. Then, you will need the right equipment and parts to repair the AC so that it won't break down in the future.

Speak to an AC servicing company to learn more.

About Me
It's More Important Than You Think

I used to routinely get calls from HVAC contractors in my area offering annual maintenance contracts. As soon they would identify themselves, I would quickly say no thank you and hang up. After all, my heating and cooling system was working fine. Why would I spend money on services I clearly didn't need? Boy was I wrong! A few years ago, my AC unit suddenly stopped working. I called my HVAC contractor to have it repaired and assumed that my warranty would pick up the bill. That was until I learned my warranty was voided due to a lack of maintenance. Out of nowhere, my decision to ignore those maintenance calls was about to cost me more than a $1,000. I know there are others out there like me. It is my hope that this site will provide them with the knowledge they need to avoid the mistakes I made.

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