How to Remove Strong Odor from Car Air Conditioning?
3 Answers
Methods to remove strong odor from car air conditioning: 1. Clean the external unit condenser and fan: No need to disassemble the casing, simply rinse with tap water; 2. Clean the internal unit filter: Open the movable casing, remove it, and rinse with tap water; 3. Clean the internal unit evaporator: Open the movable casing, remove the filter to expose the metal-finned evaporator, prepare a bottle of specialized air conditioning cleaner, and evenly spray the cleaner onto the evaporator while the power is off; 4. Sun exposure: On a sunny day, park the car under the sun, set the air conditioning system to warm air mode, turn the fan to maximum, and expose it for over ten minutes with all doors and windows open.
The pungent odor from the car's air conditioning is really annoying. I've encountered this situation before, and the smell was like mildew. That's often caused by the air filter being clogged with dust and mold. The first step I took was to replace the filter immediately—it only cost a few dozen yuan online. Then, I bought a specialized air conditioning system cleaner and sprayed it into the air intake, running the AC on high for about ten minutes, which made the smell fade. Later, I learned that opening the windows for a few minutes before turning on the AC in summer can help disperse moisture and prevent mold growth. Regularly cleaning the corners of the car seats with a damp cloth is also crucial; otherwise, dust buildup can bring the odor back. In short, it's something you can handle yourself without spending much, and the air becomes much fresher, making driving more pleasant.
When there's a strong odor from the AC, I directly check the causes and solutions. It's usually caused by bacterial growth from stagnant water on the evaporator. For a simple fix, start by inspecting the cabin air filter - replace it if it appears blackened or damp. Then purchase an AC duct cleaning spray, apply it, and run the system on external circulation for a while to flush out residue. For prevention, turn off the AC a few minutes before parking but keep the blower running for 2-3 minutes to dry the system. Don't forget to check the drain tube for clogs on older vehicles, as blocked drainage can lead to recurring moisture issues. These inexpensive measures can avoid professional repairs, offering cost-effective results.
