You're minding your own business and looking forward to enjoying the comfort of air conditioning in your home, only to be dismayed because the AC unit is now blowing stinky air. You've already ruled out that the source of the odor isn't external (and hopefully temporary), such as some local pollution.

It's hard to enjoy yourself when the air is unpleasant indoors and you would be right to worry that there is something wrong with the system. Here is what to do if your AC unit is giving off malodorous air:

Have the Unit/Vents/Ducts Cleaned

If it's been several years since you've had a professional come to your home to clean the AC unit, let alone the vents or ducts, now is the time to call for service.

Homeowners sometimes forget to arrange for annual service calls, so if you find yourself so busy that appointments like these fall through the cracks, it would be a good idea to set up a yearly maintenance program with your AC technician.

Not only will you take care of the immediate problem with the system giving off a bad odor, the technician will make it run more efficiently. A cleaner HVAC system doesn't have to work so hard to deliver the same level of comfort, which cuts down on wear and tear as well as lowering your monthly utility bill.

Check for Animals/Animal Waste in Ducts

Ruling out a dirty unit, there is a distinct possibility that animals have gotten into the ducts. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, homeowners should have their ducts cleaned if they are infested with vermin, such as insects or rodents.

However, having the ducts inspected and thoroughly cleaned of animal waste is only part of the solution. The EPA reminds homeowners to address the underlying issue, such as by calling in an animal control expert. Otherwise, the problem could return and you'll have to call in HVAC specialists to clean the ducts once again from a new infestation.

Check for Leaks/Clogs

It's of paramount importance to have an HVAC professional inspect your system for leaks or clogs. Any compromise in the air delivery system can quickly grow worse if you fail to attend to it.

The technician will locate the source of unpleasant smelling air while tracking down an obstruction clogging the ducting or patching a section that is currently leaking. Again, tightening up your AC system by eliminating leaks will ensure it runs more efficiently, so you will not waste money or enlarge your carbon footprint.

You and your family should be able to turn on the air conditioning system without worrying about it smelling bad or running less efficiently because of dirty equipment and ducts, let alone clogs or leaks. The team at David Gray Heating & Air has a great deal of experience sorting out issues with HVAC systems, from keeping them clean to ensuring that they remain free of any obstructions or leaks. If you need your AC system inspected and cleaned in the greater Jacksonville, FL area, do not delay! Contact us today for an appointment and we'll be on our way.