It's finally time to cool the house off for the summer. The first few times you kick your air conditioning on this year, you may have noticed a musty smell coming from it. If this is the case, don't worry – you can remove that musty smell and get things back to normal. Here's how.
Supply List
Step 1: Remove the Screen Filter
The screen filter should be easily accessible by opening the front cover and sliding the filter right out. If you don't know how to get the screen filter out, refer to your owner's manual. If you don't have it, write down the make and model number and do a search online. Print the manual or save it to your computer so that you have it for future reference.
Step 2: Clean the Filter
Lay the filter in the bottom of a large storage bin. Lay it flat if you can, so you don't have to use as much water and cleaning products to get it clean.
Pour very hot water over the screen and let it soak for several minutes. Dump the water out of the bin and refill it with fresh, hot water. Add some of the all-purpose cleaner to the water and let the filter sit in the mixture for about thirty minutes.
Tip: If you'd prefer to avoid the use of chemicals, you can use white vinegar in place of the all-purpose cleaner.
Now, check the filter – is it clean? If so, you can move on to the next step. If not, use a scrub brush to gently scrub the filter clean. You may need to use an old toothbrush to get the corners and crevices. The more time you spend detail cleaning the filter, the less likely the musty odor will still be an issue when you're done.
Hang the filter out in the sun to dry.
Step 3: Clean the Air Conditioning Unit
Use your whisk broom to brush away the dust and dirt from the unit. Apply a bit of cleaner to a cleaning cloth and wipe down as much of the unit as possible. Don't forget to clean the inside of the screen filter cover. Once you're done cleaning it, set it out to dry.
Once everything is clean, reassemble the unit and turn it on. Did this eliminate that musty smell? If not, you may need to repeat the process once more.
If the problem persists, contact a local air conditioning company like D & R Service Inc for assistance.
Share7 May 2018
Working with HVAC contractors is an important part of being a homeowner. Not only do your contractors ensure that a new system you buy is properly installed, but they also ensure optimal performance throughout the years through a series of regular inspections, maintenance services, and repairs. But there are lots of things you can do in between your contractor's visits to ensure that your HVAC investment is always in tip top condition, aside from cleaning out the air filters. After working with my dad for more than a decade in the HVAC business, I've put together a few methods homeowners can use to maintain a well working system, and I have published those tips and tricks right here on this blog. I hope some of the information you find here helps you on your journey as a homeowner!
