When temperatures in Springfield, MO, soar in summer, your reaction is probably to turn on your air conditioner in an attempt to cool down. If this causes a burning smell to fill your home, don’t panic. Instead, consider whether one of these common causes of a smelly air conditioning unit could be to blame.
Go through this checklist to see if you can identify the source of the problem. If you want professional help, please reach out to our qualified experts at Air Services. We can quickly diagnose the issue and get your AC working properly again.
Dust Burning Off the AC Unit
If this is the first time you’ve turned on your air conditioning system this year, the burning smell could be caused by dust burning off the parts of the system. As the system cools your home, the parts themselves might become warm to the touch and could be burning off the accumulated dust.
This is harmless and should stop very quickly. The smell usually dissipates within a few minutes as the dust burns away. If the burning smell persists, another cause might be to blame.
This is a common occurrence, especially if your AC hasn’t been used in a while. The dust that accumulates during the off-season burns off when the system starts up again. It’s not a cause for concern unless the smell continues.
If the smell doesn’t go away after a few minutes, or if it gets stronger, turn off your AC and call a professional. There might be a more serious problem that needs attention.
A Clogged Air Filter
If your air conditioner is emitting an unexplained burning smell, the first thing you should try is changing the air filter. When filters become clogged with dust and dirt, airflow through the system is restricted. This can force the motor to work harder, causing it to overheat.
Luckily, changing the air filters is a quick and easy process. Simply buy a new air filter and change out the old one. This process is one of the best things you can do for your system, and it can prevent many problems, including burning smells.
A clogged filter doesn’t just cause burning smells. It can also reduce your system’s efficiency, increase your energy bills, and shorten the lifespan of your AC unit. Regular filter changes are essential for keeping your system working properly.
Most filters should be changed every one to three months, depending on your home’s conditions. If you have pets or live in a dusty area, you might need to change them more often. A clean filter helps your system run efficiently and prevents overheating.
A Broken Capacitor
Air conditioning units use capacitors to power the motor. If the capacitor fails, the wrong voltage can be delivered to the motor, causing it to overheat. This overheating can create a burning smell that indicates a serious problem.
Capacitors often fail during a power surge, although sometimes they also break down due to general wear and tear. Power surges can damage the capacitor, causing it to malfunction and potentially damage other components.
A broken capacitor is a serious issue that can cause your AC to stop working completely. If you suspect a capacitor problem, don’t try to fix it yourself. Call a professional right away.
A Faulty Motor
Sometimes, the reason for the burning smell lies within the motor itself. If the bearings on the motor are worn out, the motor can overheat and smell like it is burning. This is a serious problem that needs professional attention.
Sometimes, lubricating the bearings is enough to solve this problem, but other times you will need to hire a professional to replace the part. When a replacement is needed, you can rely on Air Services. We always have the most advanced tools and quality parts to perform any repair or replacement service.
A faulty motor can cause your AC to stop working completely, and it can also create a fire hazard if not addressed. If you notice a burning smell coming from your AC, especially if it’s accompanied by unusual noises, call a professional immediately.
A Worn Belt
Some air conditioners use a rubber belt to drive the air blower. Over time, the rubber wears out, causing a burning smell that is also rubbery. It can smell similar to burning tires, which is a clear indication of the problem.
This kind of smell is a clear sign that the belt needs replacing, so if you notice this odor, it is a good idea to call in the professionals so they can assist you in replacing the belt and restoring your system.
A worn belt can cause your AC to work less efficiently, and it can eventually break, causing your AC to stop working. Replacing the belt before it breaks can prevent more serious problems and keep your AC working properly.
If you notice a rubbery burning smell, don’t ignore it. Call a professional to replace the belt before it causes more serious problems with your AC system.
Electrical Components Burning
The most dangerous kind of burning smell is one that also smells a little like sulfur, rotten eggs, or burning plastic. This is a sign that your air conditioning unit has developed an electrical fault, which could lead to a fire if you do not get it fixed immediately.
The safety of your family and your home is your top priority, and it is ours as well, so please don’t hesitate to call us as soon as possible if you are experiencing an electrical fault with your air conditioner.
Electrical problems are serious and can be dangerous. If you notice a burning plastic or electrical smell, turn off your AC immediately and call a professional. Don’t try to fix electrical problems yourself, as this can be dangerous.
We offer emergency service for electrical problems, so don’t wait to call. The sooner we can assess and fix the problem, the safer your home will be.
Request Air Services for Your AC Repair in Springfield, MO
You always want to be safe rather than sorry when it comes to the safety of your home and everyone who lives in it. You depend on your air conditioner during the warm months of the year. Just make sure you’re also returning the favor and taking care of your unit so it can continue to serve you reliably.
We offer both routine maintenance and emergency repair services. Whether you need a simple filter change or a major component replacement, we’re here to help.