Strong musty or moldy odor from the air conditioner when it starts or runs.

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

• Clean filter: Wash or replace the air filter.
• Access evaporator: Remove front cover to expose the evaporator coil and surrounding plastic housing.
• Disinfect coil: Spray a foaming, no‑rinse coil cleaner or a mild disinfectant approved for HVAC use onto the coil and surrounding surfaces. Allow it to work per instructions.
• Clean tray and hose: Wipe out the condensate tray and flush the drain hose with a mixture of water and a small amount of bleach or HVAC coil cleaner.
• Dry cycle: After reassembly, run the unit in FAN‑ONLY mode for 30–60 minutes to help dry the coil and reduce future growth.
• Regular maintenance: Repeat cleaning periodically, especially in humid climates.