If you’ve noticed unpleasant odours in your car every time you switch on the air-conditioning, finding the cause of these smells is the first step to eradicating them and leaving your car smelling good as new.

Mould and bacteria growth

Moisture inside AC units can lead to mould and mildew growth, as well as attract bacteria. Running the defrost mode for five to 10 minutes will usually be adequate for dehumidifying the evaporator and preventing mould growth. Chemical cleaners can also be used if mould or mildew is already present. Regular cleaning of the evaporator unit is also important for eliminating bacteria that produce odours, such as aspergillus and penicillium.

Dirty and clogged filters

Air conditioner filters gather dust, dirt, pollen, spores and other pollutants in the air to prevent these from being circulated inside the cabin. However, unless these filters are cleaned and replaced regularly, the efficiency of your air conditioner will be compromised and you could be putting the health of your passengers at risk. It’s recommended that cabin air filters are cleaned once per month and replaced each year.

Leaks in the system

If your air-conditioning system springs a leak, this can allow the liquid refrigerant to escape and accumulate inside the unit, which is another common cause of bad smells as well as a health hazard. A professional technician should inspect your air-conditioning system as soon as possible. They will check the condition of all hoses and seals for leaks and carry out any repairs or replacements needed.

Air-conditioning in Brisbane

Contact Mr Cool on 07 3188 4348 for air-conditioning repairs in Brisbane. Their friendly technicians have the knowledge and expertise to deal with all issues related to automotive air-conditioning.