Musty or moldy odor from the air conditioner when it starts.

Safety: Unplug the unit. Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning moldy components.

Steps:

• Clean filter: Wash the air filter with mild detergent and water. Dry completely.
• Clean evaporator coil: Access the evaporator and spray with a non-rinse coil cleaner approved for air conditioners. Allow to dry per product instructions.
• Disinfect drain pan and tank: Wipe the condensate drain pan and any internal water tank with a diluted bleach solution (or appropriate disinfectant), then rinse and dry.
• Improve drying: After each use, run the unit in fan-only mode for 15–30 minutes to dry the coil and reduce future mold growth.