What Causes Unpleasant Odors in Car Air Vents?
2 Answers
Unpleasant odors in car air vents may be caused by a dirty car condenser. Overview of Car Condenser: The condenser is a component of the refrigeration system, a type of heat exchanger that converts gas or vapor into liquid, transferring heat from the tubes to the surrounding air quickly. Principle of Car Condenser: Gas passes through a long tube (usually coiled into a solenoid), dissipating heat to the surrounding air. Metals like copper, with strong thermal conductivity, are often used to transport vapor. To enhance the condenser's efficiency, heat-conductive fins are often attached to the tubes to increase the surface area for faster heat dissipation. A fan is used to accelerate air convection, carrying the heat away.
I've been driving this old car for several years and noticed a foul smell coming from the AC. The main causes are mold and bacteria growing in the AC system. During rainy summers, water accumulates in the evaporator box and doesn't dry completely, leading to mold over time. The air filter is also clogged with dust and pollen, blowing out dirt every time the fan starts. Last month, I had it cleaned, and the mechanic said high humidity in the car or frequently using the AC in recirculation mode can cause this. He recommended changing the filter regularly, at least once a year, and running the fan for a few minutes with cold or hot air before turning on the AC to dry out moisture. This helps reduce odors and respiratory issues—health comes first, after all.
