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When you turn on your air conditioner and get hit with a musty, moldy smell, it’s more than just unpleasant—it could be a warning sign of a larger issue. At Edelman, we often hear from homeowners in Champaign, IL, who are concerned about strange odors coming from their AC systems. If you’ve noticed that your home smells like an old basement every time the air kicks on, you’re likely dealing with mold or mildew inside your HVAC system.
Let’s take a closer look at what causes that moldy AC smell and why professional duct services are often the only way to solve the problem of mold in air ducts in Champaign, IL.
What Causes a Moldy Smell From Your AC?
A moldy or musty odor is usually caused by the growth of mold, mildew, or bacteria somewhere within your air conditioning system. Here are the most common sources:
1. Moisture Buildup in the Ductwork
Your air ducts can collect dust, debris, and moisture over time—creating the perfect environment for mold growth. Once mold begins to form in the ductwork, spores can circulate through your home every time the system runs, spreading the musty odor and potentially harming indoor air quality.
2. Dirty Evaporator Coils
The evaporator coil inside your indoor AC unit cools the air, but it also creates condensation. If the coil is dirty or clogged, water may not drain properly, leading to standing moisture that fosters mold and mildew growth.
3. Clogged Drain Pan or Condensate Line
If the drain pan beneath your evaporator coil is full or the condensate drain line is blocked, water can back up and stagnate. That standing water becomes a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria and mold.
4. Air Filter Issues
A clogged or old air filter can restrict airflow and allow moisture and dust to build up inside your system. This increases the risk of mold development and allows contaminated air to move freely through your vents.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore That Smell
A moldy smell coming from your AC isn’t just about comfort—it’s a health issue. Breathing in mold spores can aggravate allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. Young children, seniors, and anyone with compromised immune systems are particularly at risk.
Ignoring the issue can also lead to:
- Declining indoor air quality
- Increased allergy symptoms or respiratory irritation
- Persistent odors throughout the home
- Damage to HVAC components due to moisture and mold exposure
- That’s why it’s crucial to act fast when you notice a musty odor.
Professional Duct Services Are Often the Solution
If the mold is growing inside your ductwork, you’ll need professional duct services to eliminate the problem safely and thoroughly. At Edelman, our expert technicians provide comprehensive duct inspections and treatments to ensure your home’s air is clean, fresh, and safe to breathe.
Don’t Let Mold Take Over Your Home—Call Edelman Today
If you’re dealing with a moldy smell from your AC, don’t wait. The longer you ignore the problem, the worse it can get—for your system, your comfort, and your health. At Edelman, we’re proud to help homeowners in Champaign, IL, breathe easier with expert AC services and professional duct care.