Dirty Sock Odor After Turning on Your Central Air?

Summer is around the corner and we’ll be turning on our air conditioning. CAUTION: That dirty sock odor is an indication that the A/C unit has become contaminated with microbial growth. Whenever warm, moist air is cooled, water will form condensation and microbes like yeast, bacteria, and mold only need oxygen, moisture and dust to grow.

Airborne particles can be carried through on air flows throughout our houses and buildings causing allergies, asthma, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a potentially life-threatening respiratory illness.

HOW TO AVOID THIS PROBLEM?

Adequate filtration.

This is the most important. Without adequate filtration, A/C coils, drip trays, and fibrous liners become contaminated due to the dampness. Pleated media filters with a MERV rating of at least 8 are recommended.

But don’t forget to change the filters on the recommended schedule, otherwise even the very best filtration will become filthy. And it is always a good idea to have the HVAC systems inspected before you turn it on for the spring or summer.

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