What Causes Bad Odor in Car Air Conditioning?
2 Answers
The reasons for bad odor in car air conditioning are: 1. The air filter has not been cleaned for a long time, and the humid air during rainy seasons makes the filter damp and warm, leading to mold growth and a musty smell; 2. Outside air flows through the air conditioning system's pipes, where a small amount of residual moisture combines with dust in the air. If not cleaned for a long time, this can also lead to mold and produce a sour, rotten odor. Below are solutions to eliminate bad odor in car air conditioning: 1. Regularly clean the air conditioning system or replace the air filter to reduce mold growth; 2. Master the correct method of turning the air conditioning on and off. Generally, it is best to turn off the air conditioning 5 minutes before parking, then switch to natural air to quickly restore the car's internal temperature, preventing condensation inside the air conditioning pipes due to temperature differences after parking, thus keeping the pipes dry and preventing mold and fungus growth; 3. Use natural air fresheners. You can place fruits like pineapples, lemons, or apples in the car to help eliminate odors; 4. Frequently use the AUTO button on the air conditioning panel to maintain a relatively stable temperature inside the car, ensuring comfort and maintaining air quality.
The other day, I noticed a musty smell coming from the air conditioner, so I looked it up. It turns out that the main source of bad odors in car air conditioners is the evaporator inside the system. When cooling, condensation forms on its surface. If you turn off the AC immediately after parking, the leftover moisture can lead to mold growth. Additionally, over time, the cabin air filter accumulates dust and mold spores, causing unpleasant smells when the AC is turned on. Some friends might notice a sour smell during the first few minutes of using the AC in summer, which is often caused by mold on the evaporator. To prevent this, it's recommended to turn off the AC five minutes before parking but keep the fan running to dry out the ducts. The cabin air filter should ideally be replaced every six months, especially for those with allergies or sinus issues.
