Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system’s cool breeze can transform your space from relaxing to smelling like a gym locker room. Because the primary causes of the odor are the HVAC’s inner components, it may become stronger as the air conditioner remains on.
Here are the causes and how you can identify and fix Dirty Sock Syndrome.
What Causes Dirty Sock Syndrome in HVAC Systems
Several factors contribute to the used gym socks smell emitting from your air conditioner:
- Condensed moisture on the evaporator coil serves as the perfect ground for mold, mildew, and bacterial growth. This happens when the HVAC system properly is not installed properly.
- Dust and other contaminants accumulate in the evaporator coil. When they combine with moisture, they can also lead to bacterial growth.
- Lack of maintenance. If you fail to regularly maintain your HVAC system, dust and moisture will accumulate, which eventually leads to bad odors.
Fixing Dirty Sock Syndrome
To fix the Dirty Sock Syndrome, you need to schedule regular maintenance for your HVAC by a professional. They will clean the evaporator coil and other components of your system to remove any mold and bacteria.
The HVAC Palatine professionals you choose, like Unique Indoor Comfort, will recommend how often you should change your dirty air filter. This can depend on whether you have allergies or pets.
Next, you need to maintain a clean, dust-free space. A clean house or building will help the air filters last longer and avoid any accumulation on the evaporator or cooling coil. You can also open windows during the day when it is not dusty or windy to increase fresh air intake. It will help dilute indoor contaminants and maintain indoor air quality.
However, keep in mind that resolving the Dirty Sock Syndrome necessitates the use of professionals. So, if you have no prior experience repairing or maintaining HVAC systems, seek professional assistance to avoid damaging your air conditioner. HVAC system professionals will assess the extent of the contamination before recommending the appropriate remediation steps.
When to Seek Professional Help in Chicago
Since Dirty Sock Syndrome affects the internal parts of your HVAC, like the evaporator coil, you need the services of Unique Indoor Comfort. We have the expertise to repair your air conditioner and eliminate that gym sock smell.
Get in touch with us and schedule a service visit so that we can have your space smelling clean and pristine instead of like old smelly socks.
Call
NoW 847-359-5100
