Kelvinator Biological Growth on Evaporator Coil and Drain Pan

Kelvinator split AC indoor unit emits a musty or moldy smell when starting.

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Possible Causes

Dirty evaporator coil, stagnant water in drain pan, infrequent use in humid conditions, clogged filters

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Turn off power before cleaning. Wear gloves and eye protection when using coil cleaners.

Steps:

  • Clean filters: Wash filters with mild detergent and dry completely before reinstalling.
  • Use coil cleaner: Spray a non-rinse foaming evaporator coil cleaner approved for AC use onto the coil surface. Follow product instructions.
  • Clean drain pan: Wipe accessible areas of the drain pan with a cloth and mild disinfectant.
  • Run in fan mode: After cleaning, run the unit in Fan Only mode for 30–60 minutes to dry the coil and reduce odor.
  • Regular maintenance: Schedule periodic professional cleaning of the indoor unit to prevent recurrence.
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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5

Required Part

Evaporator Coil
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