Arctic King
Biological Growth on Evaporator Coil and Drain Pan
Unit blows air but there is a musty or moldy odor when it runs.
Advertisements
Possible Causes
Dirty evaporator coil, Standing water in drain pan, Clogged drain, Long periods of inactivity in humid conditions
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Unplug the unit. Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning mold or mildew.
Steps to remove odors:
- Clean filter: Wash the air filter thoroughly with soap and water and let it dry.
- Access evaporator and pan: Remove the front cover to expose the evaporator coil and drain pan.
- Clean coil: Spray a no-rinse evaporator coil cleaner suitable for AC units onto the coil. Allow it to work per instructions.
- Clean drain pan: Wipe the pan with a mild bleach solution (1:10 bleach to water) or a commercial coil pan cleaner to kill mold and algae. Ensure the drain hole is clear.
- Dry the unit: After cleaning, run the unit in Fan Only mode for 30–60 minutes to dry the coil and pan.
- Prevent recurrence: Clean the filter monthly and run the fan for a short time after cooling to reduce moisture buildup.
Advertisements
Repair Difficulty
Easy
2/5
Required Part
Evaporator Coil
Check Price on Amazon
We may earn a commission from links on this page.
Advertisements