Now that spring is here, you have probably begun spring cleaning chores around your home to get it ready for the hot summer months ahead. However, if in the process you notice a musty odor throughout your home that just won’t go away no matter how much cleaning or airing out you do, this is a problem that must be addressed. What could be the cause of the odor and what can you do about it?
Your Home’s HVAC System Could Be the Culprit
If you cannot find a visible source of a musty or mildew odor, like a water leak somewhere in your home, the cause could be your home’s HVAC system. A persistent musty or mildewy smell could be a sign of a hidden problem that could be easily fixed with some maintenance and cleaning, including:
- Dirty air filters in the HVAC system.
- Built-up dust and debris in your home’s ductwork makes a hospitable location for mold, mildew, and bacteria to live and then get spread through the air every time you turn on your air conditioning or heat.
- Extra moisture in your home that causes mold and mildew to grow.
- Dust build-up in your system’s air handler.
- Impaired air circulation around the system’s outdoor condenser unit from grass or weeds.
- Standing water in your condenser’s water pan.
- Poor airflow in your HVAC system.
How Can Odor-Causing HVAC Issues Be Solved?
If you have a persistent odor in your home, you should get it resolved as soon as possible. This problem could have a negative effect on your and your family’s health and comfort, and could deter you from having guests. It can be easy to get used to this type of odor, but it could cause or exacerbate breathing issues.
Your best bet is to have your system tuned up by a professional and alert the technician to your concerns over musty odors. An experienced technician will:
- Check your system’s air filters to see if they need to be replaced or cleaned if they are reusable filters.
- Inspect your ductwork for any leaks or gaps that could allow extra dust, pollen, pet dander, or other debris where mold and mildew can grow.
- Recommend cleaning and sanitizing of your ductwork when there are signs that it needs to be cleaned.
- Inspect and clean components in your system where dust and grime may have built up.
- Inspection of your air conditioner condenser’s pan drain to ensure there are no clogs that cause excess moisture that can cause a musty smell.
- Check to see if your HVAC system has adequate ventilation with no blocked vents and ample airflow.
Springtime is a Great Time for HVAC Maintenance
Spring is the best time to address odor-causing HVAC issues in your Jacksonville area home because once you start using the air conditioning more often, it could worsen the problem. Contact Snyder Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electric today to schedule a spring tune-up or repair for your home’s heating and cooling system and get that musty odor under control.
