What Causes a Burning Smell When the Car Air Conditioner is On?
2 Answers
Car air conditioner emitting a burning smell may be due to mold growth on the surface of the heat exchanger fins. Here are the reasons for the burning smell when the car air conditioner is on: 1. Moisture and mold accumulate on the indoor heat exchanger of the air conditioner, unable to evaporate completely, forming mold spots. 2. Over time, a musty odor appears during the initial operation period. 3. The mold growth process occurs during the cooling cycle. 5. The smell becomes more severe during heating. Here are methods to address the burning smell from the air conditioner: 1. Change the current usage habits: Mold on the heat exchanger is often related to usage. Condensation during cooling is normal. After turning off, ensure proper ventilation to keep the air conditioner's heat dissipation unobstructed. Avoid covering the air conditioner to prevent external aging. 2. After removing the air conditioner filter, gently brush the internal fins with a soft brush and a cleaning agent to remove surface mold. 3. Purchase specialized air conditioner cleaning solutions designed to remove mold for treatment. 4. Regularly run the air conditioner in ventilation mode for a period to keep the heat exchanger dry.
Speaking of burnt smells when using car air conditioning, I've handled many similar cases. The most common cause is likely an electrical short in the compressor, where overheating wires burn the insulation layer and emit odors. Another possibility is poor fan operation preventing heat dissipation, causing the evaporator or nearby plastic components to overheat. A severely dirty cabin air filter accumulating dust that heats up and smokes could also be the culprit. Additionally, a loose or slipping engine belt generating friction heat may produce similar odors. These situations are all potentially dangerous and could lead to fires, so it's recommended to immediately turn off the AC and stop to inspect. Regular filter replacement and belt tension checks can prevent issues, saving both money and hassle. Professional repair shops can quickly diagnose the problem with testing equipment - don't delay until it becomes a major issue.
