The gas smell from your AC rings an alarm! What should you do now? Find out more about the potential cause here and how to fix it.
Any foul, unpleasant odor coming from your AC certainly puts you off. While smelling dust and mildew isn’t a big deal, you may begin to panic for a moment if the odor is pungent and gas-like. And the question pops up in your mind: why does my AC smell like gas?
Because there might be a gas leak from the furnace of your HVAC system. Some heating systems run on natural gas as a fuel. Since natural gas doesn’t have any odor, a chemical mercaptan is added to give a sharp, noticeable smell during leakage. Remember that the gas (refrigerant) leak from AC gives a sweet, musky odor which helps you distinguish it from a gas leak.
Gas leak incidents are very common around the world, and therefore, every individual must be able to discern the source of the smell. Continue reading to learn about the sources causing your AC unit to smell like gas.
Why Does My AC Unit Smell Like Gas?
If your aircon smells like gas, it is concerning and should be addressed immediately. Here are some potential reasons why this might be happening:
1. Nearby Gas Leak
If your air conditioning unit is located near a gas appliance, such as a furnace or water heater, the smell could be from a gas leak in those appliances. The odor could be drawn into your AC system and circulated throughout your home.
2. Refrigerant Leak
While the smell of refrigerant leaks is typically described as sweet or chemical-like rather than like gas, a refrigerant leak can sometimes be mistaken for a gas smell. Leaking refrigerant is a serious issue that requires professional attention.
3. Ductwork Issues
If there is a gas leak elsewhere in your home, the odor could enter the ductwork and be distributed by the AC system. This might happen if the ducts have gaps or are not properly sealed.
4. HVAC System Malfunction
Sometimes, components within the HVAC system can malfunction and produce unusual odors. Electrical issues, burning components, or overheating parts could produce smells that are mistakenly identified as gas.
Is It Normal To Smell Gas From An Air Conditioner?
No, it is not normal to smell gas from an air conditioner. If you detect a gas-like odor coming from your AC, it indicates a potential issue that should be addressed as an emergency.
How Do I Know If My AC Gas Is Leaking?
Your AC stops cooling as effectively as it used to because low refrigerant levels compromise its ability to cool the air. It often produces hissing or bubbling sounds due to the escape of gas, along with an ice build-up on the coils. This forces your AC to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, leading to increased energy consumption and higher energy bills.
I Smell Gas From My AC–What Should I Do?
- Turn Off the AC: Immediately turn off your air conditioning system to prevent the potential spread of gas.
- Ventilate Your Home: Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate.
- Check for Gas Leaks: If you suspect a natural gas leak, evacuate the premises and contact your gas company.
- Contact a Professional: Have a licensed HVAC technician inspect your system to identify and fix the source of the smell.
Final Thoughts
You should never try to fix it yourself whenever you encounter a gas leak from your AC or any other source. Contact a professional and let him handle it to avoid any potential harm.
