Unpleasant odor when running the AC

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  • 7/7/2025
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There must be a stage where turning on the AC in your car becomes annoying because of the unpleasant odor that comes out of the air vents and lasts for a long time. This odor is so unpleasant that you may not be able to drive the car or it may greatly disturb you or your passengers.

This unpleasant odor that comes out of the vents when you turn on the AC system is normal and happens in every car. There is a scientific explanation that will make it easier for you to understand why it occurs, what it is, and how to get rid of it quickly and easily without any effort and at a low cost.

However, if your car smells unpleasant all the time, whether the AC is on or not, you can use the services of reliable cleaning companies through Motorgy, which provides car wash in Kuwait through its website or app. The washing team will arrive at your home to clean your car quickly and at the best prices.

 

Read also: Reasons for unpleasant odors in cars

 

Why does a bad smell come out when the AC is turned on?

There is a common smell that comes out of the AC system when it is turned on, similar to the smell of mold or moisture. The main reason for this smell is the accumulation of bacteria and mold inside the AC filter due to frequent use and not changing it when it should be changed.

As you know, the air conditioning system works by pumping a large amount of cold air into the car's interior after the system's condenser becomes very cold and the surrounding air also becomes cold and ready to enter the cabin. The cooling process in hot weather causes bacteria to form in the filter because the air passes through it.

The cold air that enters the cabin is basically hot outside air that enters the car, which helps the condensation process and the formation of dew drops on parts of the system and under the car, carrying with it the dirt and dust that is present in the atmosphere.

 

Read also: How to prevent unpleasant odors in your car?

 

When air passes through the filter, all impurities, dirt, dust, leaves, and other debris will settle in the filter. As hot air passes through it when the AC system is turned off and cold air passes through it when it is turned on, the filter becomes a breeding ground for moisture and mold.

Therefore, the only solution to get rid of this smell is to replace the filter with a new one so that the air becomes clean and free of any strange and unpleasant odors. Be sure to purchase a filter from the agency or a company known for manufacturing high-quality filters, as poor-quality filters will increase the likelihood of the odor returning faster than the original and will consume gas due to the additional air pressure they generate.

After replacing the filter, it is best to thoroughly clean all vents using special cleaning materials and brushes to get the best results. Some vents will retain the odor even after replacing the filter, so cleaning them will help eliminate the odor completely.

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