Why Does My Portable Air Conditioner Smell Bad?

Portable air conditioners are a lifeline during the hot summer months, as they keep us cool and leave us feeling refreshed. But what happens when they start to smell, and is it a sign of something more serious taking place? The good news is that it’s not an uncommon issue, and there are multiple reasons as to why it might be smelling funky  — as well as plenty of ways to fix it. Below we answer your question, “Why does my portable air conditioner smell bad?”.

What are the Causes of Portable Air Conditioners Smelling Bad?

There are several reasons why your portable air conditioner might not smell as good as it used to. Before you panic, check the following:

• Clogged filter 
• Refrigerant leak 
• Running on “low” all the time
• Room too small for the AC 

The point about it running on low is an important one. This is because it fails to dehumidify the air as it’s not running to its full potential. This can cause a musty odor because of the stale air as well as the increased risk of mould and mildew forming. 

The smell can also be caused by a lack of upkeep and maintenance. It’s essential that you keep your air conditioner clean, empty water, and make sure things are running smoothly. Not only this, but regular cleaning can help prolong the life of your portable air conditioner. 

Mold and mildew are likely to form in your portable air conditioner if it’s not cleaned or maintained. This leads to an unpleasant and musty odour but can also be damaging to your health — especially if you have asthma or allergies. 

However, what you can see is that the primary reason for a foul odor is caused by internal components not being cared for properly. To ensure that your unit remains free from odors, you should make sure that it’s kept in the right size room and also that you clean it regularly. 

How Can You Remove the Smell?

There are some great quick fixes you can try to remove the odor and keep your portable AC running without issue. The first of these is cleaning the drain line. Cleaning out the pipe means that you remove any debris or grime that has built up to ensure it continues flowing. 

You should lift the lid and inspect the coils, checking that they are clean and free from debris. If the smell is coming from this area, you will know as soon as you lift the lid. Give the coils a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to ensure they are clean. 

Changing the air filter can also make a huge difference, as once this becomes dirty and clogged it not only causes foul odors but also stops the machine from being efficient and can even reduce its lifespan. 

Conclusion

There are several reasons why your air conditioner might be smelling a little foul, but the good news is that they are all quick and easy to fix. A lot of it comes down to proper care and maintenance, as well as ensuring the room your air conditioner is in is the right size.