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Dirty Sock Syndrome: Solving the Assault on Your Nose

Have you noticed a moldy smelling odor wafting from your air conditioner this summer? If you’ve been smelling a foul smell in your Palmetto, Florida, home, you’ll want to know all there is to know about dirty sock syndrome in your AC.

What Is Dirty Sock Syndrome?

Dirty sock syndrome is a buildup of mold and bacteria on the AC evaporator coil.

At first, this issue was believed to be isolated to the south, as it was first identified in hot and humid states. Now, we know that dirty sock syndrome can happen anywhere, but it most often starts during spring or fall when you switch back and forth between AC and heat. Dirty sock syndrome is most common in heat pumps.

How Can I Get Rid of Dirty Sock Syndrome?

There are a few tried-and-true methods to get rid of it. The most common one that does work is to coat the coils with a coating that protects them from mold and mildew. Adding the anti-microbial coating can be expensive and a time-consuming process.

Often, treating the coils with UV light to kill mold, mildew, and bacteria will also get rid of or reduce the smell. If the system is quite old, some homeowners have chosen to replace the HVAC system, solving two issues at the same time.

Is Dirty Sock Syndrome Dangerous?

In general, it isn’t dangerous, but it does lower your home’s indoor air quality. For family members that have severe allergies, asthma, or other breathing troubles, the buildup of mold, mildew, and bacteria could cause serious health troubles. 

If you’re facing a smelly case of dirty sock syndrome, don’t hesitate to call Climatic at (941) 758-3080, and we’ll come out to help you get rid of the smell.

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Climatic Conditioning Company, Inc., Air Conditioning Contractor, Sarasota, FL