According to FirstStreet.org, Franklin, TN, has a “major heat risk.” The organization also forecasts the city to experience about 29 days this year when temperatures soar dangerously above 100ºF.

If you also live in Franklin, using your air conditioner is one way to avoid heat hazards. Unfortunately, a lack of proper maintenance can impair its performance or, at the very least, cause it to emit unpleasant mildewy odors.

A mildew smell from AC systems indicates mold growth, so you should never ignore it. If you experience this with your air conditioner, act right away.

The Sewell Electric & HVAC team has shared preventive tips and solutions for mildew-like air conditioner smells, so read on.

Remove AC Mildew Odor With a New Filter

Maintaining your comfort system’s peak performance involves replacing HVAC filters regularly. How often to change them depends on filter type, home size, and indoor air quality. However, the general recommendation is to replace them every one to three months.

Failure to replace HVAC filters as needed can cause them to become clogged with particles, including mold and mildew spores. So, if the cold air from your AC smells musty, inspect and replace or wash it. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing a filthy filter with a clean one can also help cut its energy use by 5% to 15%.

Fix Musty AC Odor by Cleaning the Drain Pan

Your AC’s condensate drain pan collects the water that forms and drops from the evaporator coils during the cooling cycle. A drain pipe connects to this pan, channeling the collected water out of your home.

Over time, the drain pan may become clogged, especially without regular maintenance. A clogged pan can also encourage mold and mildew growth, so it’s a possible culprit behind the musty-smelling air from your AC.

Your AC’s drain pan is in the indoor unit, under the evaporator coils. You’ll have to open a cover or panel to access it. You can clean it using a rag or vacuum and rinse it with hot water to remove mold and mildew buildup.

Prevent Mildew in AC With Regular HVAC Tune-Ups

One of the best ways to help prevent and eliminate foul AC smells is to partner with a reputable Franklin, TN, contractor for regular HVAC tune-ups. During routine system maintenance, the HVAC specialist will:

  • Inspect and test all critical components of your system
  • Clean the AC to remove smells caused by molds, mildew, and other contaminants
  • Check refrigerant levels

If the HVAC tech finds any issues with your system, they’ll let you know and discuss your best options to address and prevent them from worsening.

Say Goodbye to a Mildew Smell From AC Systems

Replacing dirty filters, cleaning the drain pan, and partnering with an HVAC specialist are the top strategies for eliminating and preventing mildew smell from AC systems. So, if your cooling system makes you wheeze and sneeze, it’s high time to follow these tactics.

Sewell Electric & HVAC is your go-to for all things HVAC, including AC tune-ups and repairs. We’re a highly trusted and established company with over 70 years of experience and 1,000+ happy customers in Franklin and Williamson County, TN.

Reach out today to schedule your HVAC service, and we’ll happily banish mold and mildew odors from your system!