Black+Decker Odor / Biological Growth in Unit

Musty or moldy odor coming from the air conditioner when it runs.

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Possible Causes

Mold or mildew on evaporator coil, Dirty air filter, Standing water in drain pan, Contaminated condensate tray

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Unplug the unit. Wear gloves and a mask if you are sensitive to mold.

  • Clean filter: Wash the air filter thoroughly with warm soapy water and let it dry completely.
  • Clean evaporator coil: Remove the front cover and gently clean the evaporator fins with a soft brush. Use a non-rinse foaming coil cleaner rated for air conditioners, following the product instructions.
  • Clean drain pan: Access the condensate tray and wipe it out with a solution of mild detergent and water. Rinse and dry.
  • Run fan-only mode: After cleaning, run the unit in FAN mode for 30–60 minutes to help dry internal components.
  • Prevent recurrence: Clean the filter monthly and avoid leaving the unit unused for long periods in a damp environment without drying it first.
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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5
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