What is Dirty Sock Syndrome?
Does your home have a musty smell when the air conditioner starts up? This is caused by mold and bacteria build up in your HVAC system. This phenomenon even has a name. It’s called “Dirty Sock Syndrome” and the good news is that it can be fixed and prevented.
Often, this phenomenon is seen in the spring when most people first start running their air conditioner. Usually as a result of being idle all winter long. The buildup of moisture in your HVAC system promotes the growth of mold and bacteria in the evaporator coil which is housed in the indoor A/C most likely in your attic space. For mold and bacteria to grow, it needs two things: moisture and organic material. This organic material is plentiful since house dust is made primarily of dead skin cells. Moisture in southeast Texas is a given. It’s in the air most of the time. So, there you are, the perfect conditions for mold and bacteria growth. Generally, this musty smell is not harmful to people but those that have respiratory issues could have problems. The allergens in the air typically will irritate their condition.
What are some of the risks involved?
Other than aggravating some health issues, dirty sock syndrome could be an indication of problems to your HVAC system. This dust build up could shorten the lifetime of your costly HVAC system as well as keep it from running at peak efficiency which will increase your energy costs. A plugged-up filter is one of the more common causes of poor filtration which could lead to dirty sock syndrome but could also lead to increases in static pressure which causes the system to work harder to generate proper air flow.
There are also health issues to consider. The dirty sock smell is indicative of mold in your HVAC system and could cause allergens to be released into the air. People that have compromised breathing issues may be negatively impacted from these allergens. Here is an article about allergens in your home and indoor air quality from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
What are some solutions?
- Change your air filter – a clogged up filter can create a ton of problems if not addressed so first check your filter and make sure its clean. Make it a point to change your filter at least once per year and as often as every 60-90 for some types of filters. Majestic AC has some resources for air filters here.
- Clean your condenser drain pan – the drain pan can get clogged up and not drain properly which will start collecting dirt and dust and then lead to bacteria and mold. There are a few ways to accomplish this but calling Majestic AC is probably the safest and surest method.
- Get your ductwork cleaned – getting your ductwork cleaned will ensure that there are no blocked areas. Bacteria and mold could accumulate in joints and corners where airflow is not optimal. Getting your ductwork professionally cleaned is a great way to get rid of contaminants. Additionally, Majestic AC offers AC duct replacements. Cleaning can sometimes damage the ducting making the situation worse. Compare cleaning to simply replacing your HVAC ductwork.
- Get your evaporator coil cleaned – this is most likely where the dirty sock syndrome originates. The evaporator coil absorbs moisture from the air and should be professionally cleaned regularly. This is not a do-it-yourself process. It is easy to damage the coil and it is a costly replacement. Contact Majestic AC to schedule your coil service.
Will the smell ever go away?
Dirty sock syndrome will not go away on its own. When you start to run your home air conditioner regularly in the summers, the smell may lessen but the mold build up is still there and can continue to put allergens in the air and damage your HVAC system. Upgrading your air filter can be a better, long term solution. Take a look at our line of air purifiers that use a larger air filter that specializes in odor removal.
