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Have you ever noticed a consistent odor when your air conditioning is on? Before you settle with this becoming a fact of everyday life, it's worth consulting with an auto AC repair professional for a solution. Some of the causes behind AC odors can be fixed with a little help from your local auto repair shop, and the team at Chik's Auto Air of Honolulu, HI, is here to highlight a few of the common culprits. 

Understanding the Causes Behind AC Odors

How Can You Locate the Source?

Once you've eliminated the possibility of items that may lead to the circulation of foul-smelling air—including food and other sensitive materials left in the vehicle for an extended period—it's time to take a deeper look. One of the most common causes of air conditioning odors stems from dirt or grime within the cooling components themselves. Auto AC repair technicians might find excess dirt on the cooling coils, for instance, which will cause the air passing through them to smell. The source of the problem may also lie within the air filtration system, which is designed to remove contaminants before sending air throughout the vehicle. 

auto ac repairIn these and other related cases, a lack of proper maintenance is often at the core of the matter. Moisture buildup in your air conditioning creates an ideal breeding ground for mold and bacteria. This can occur in areas such as the evaporator core, or even the air conditioning vents, and it's not the type of air you want to be exposed to. The spreading of bacteria and allergens could lead to further health concerns, especially for those with existing conditions, such as asthma. 

What Other Dangers Are Present?

Bad AC odors are also a solid indicator of a potential leak. While you'll likely have no problem identifying the smell of leaking gasoline, there are other odors to keep in mind. If you smell something sweet every time you use your vehicle's air conditioning system, you might have an antifreeze leak on your hands. Whenever these suspicions rear their head, it's always best to play it safe and take your car to an AC repair shop as soon as possible. 

Like any issue with your car or truck's interior components, acting fast on AC repairs is the best way to protect yourself from larger issues down the line. If your auto air conditioning smells off or is otherwise acting up in any way, get in touch with the experts at Chik's Auto Air. Check out their website for an overview of their services, and call them at (808) 591-1726 to schedule an appointment today.

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