Trane Biological Growth on Evaporator Coil or in Ducts

Musty or moldy odor from vents when the Trane air conditioner starts.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Dirty evaporator coil, Wet insulation in air handler, Standing water in drain pan, Contaminated ductwork

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off power before opening the air handler or coil cabinet.

  • Clean coil: Access the evaporator coil and apply an EPA-approved coil cleaner designed to remove biofilm. Follow label instructions and avoid damaging fins.
  • Drain pan: Clean the condensate pan with a mild bleach solution (if compatible with materials) and ensure proper drainage.
  • Filter upgrade: Use a higher-quality filter compatible with your Trane system to reduce organic buildup.
  • Run fan: After cleaning, run the fan only for 30–60 minutes to help dry the coil and pan.

Persistent odors may require professional duct cleaning or installation of a UV light system by a Trane technician.

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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Trane Evaporator Coil
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