Why Your AC Smells Musty and How It Impacts Your Air Quality
The summer heat in Myrtle Beach means you may have your air conditioning on high at all times. However, if you’ve turned on your air conditioning and noticed a musty or damp smell, it’s not something to ignore. That odor is more than unpleasant—it’s often a red flag that something’s not right inside your HVAC system. This can be a big deterrent to your air quality, which is even more vital to keep clean during allergen season. Understanding what causes that musty AC smell can help you protect your indoor air quality, reduce summer allergy symptoms, and maintain a healthy, efficient cooling system.
Why Your AC Smells Musty
The most common culprit behind why your AC smells musty is mold or mildew buildup inside the HVAC system. Air conditioners naturally pull moisture from the air, and if that moisture isn’t drained properly, it can create the perfect environment for mold growth. Mold can hide in:
- Clogged or dirty air filters
- Ductwork
- Drip pan or evaporator coil due to condensation
- Damp insulation or blocked drain lines
If left unaddressed, mold in your HVAC can circulate spores through your home every time the AC runs—impacting not just your comfort, but your health. Plus, the longer you ignore the situation, the mold can spread and grow into not only yout system, but your walls, floors, insulation, and more.
How Musty AC Smells Affect Air Quality
Poor indoor air quality is a leading trigger of summer allergies. Myrtle Beach is full of allergens as it is. Between pollen and insects, you probably don’t want to add mold to the list. Mold spores, dust, and other allergens can exacerbate asthma, sinus infections, and chronic coughing. If your home feels more humid than usual or you’re sneezing every time the AC kicks on, your HVAC system may be part of the problem.
Tips to Eliminate Musty AC Odors and Improve Air Quality
While we always recommend calling a professional, there are a few things you can do to see if it fixes the problem Here’s what you can do to freshen your air and stay cool before calling us:
- Change your air filter regularly (every 1–3 months).
- Clean your drip pan and drain line to prevent standing water.
- Use a UV light or air purification system inside your HVAC to kill mold and bacteria.
- Run a dehumidifier in particularly damp areas of your home.
- Seal and insulate ductwork to prevent condensation and keep out contaminants.
If your AC continues to smell musty after trying these steps—or if you suspect mold has taken hold deep inside your system—it’s time to call in the professionals at Beach Air. Mold isn’t just a nuisance; it’s a health risk that requires proper cleaning and treatment.
Stay Fresh This Summer with Beach Air HVAC
Don’t let musty AC smells ruin your summer. At Beach Air HVAC, we offer expert system inspections, cleanings, and maintenance services to ensure your home’s air stays clean, cool, and healthy. Whether you need professional assistance, a new filter, or a seasonal tune-up, our team is here to help.
Beach Air is committed to providing top-notch service to help you get the most out of your HVAC system. We are your trusted local HVAC technicians ready to take on any problems you may have year-round. Learn more about how we can help or give us a call at 843-796-3798 for a consultation.