When you own a heat pump, it’s hard to do without. Capable of cooling in the summer and heating in the winter, the heat pump allows you to save on your electricity bill, in addition to being able to temper your home throughout the year. It is also the most cost-effective way to heat, both short and long term, when combined with electric heating (e.g., baseboards). Like your car and your house, the heat pump also requires periodic maintenance performed by experts in the field; otherwise, it may be exposed to certain problems, such as unpleasant odors coming from the unit inside your home.
The appearance of odor emanating from your heat pump
To ensure the proper functioning of your device, professional cleaning of your heat pump is recommended every 4 years, depending on its level of use, the presence of pets, if you have done construction work in your house, etc. If it is not maintained, it can present some inconveniences. After several years of service, the appearance of mold is not impossible. Indeed, your heat pump has a condenser, which converts a small amount of moisture contained in the ambient air into water. This water flows through a drain provided for this purpose. Sometimes, after several years, a few drops lodge near the indoor air outlet of your heat pump. After some time, a bad smell can end up emanating from the mold created by the drops. Professional maintenance is then highly recommended to check and remedy this type of situation. It is also recommended to clean the filters once a month, which are easily accessible after lifting the shell of the heat pump. Rinse them with water and let them dry before putting them back in place. If they are disposable filters, replace them when they are covered with dust.
Bad odors can also appear if the drain to evacuate the water from the condenser is poorly connected or if it is clogged, either by debris such as foliage or a small animal that has taken refuge there, a mouse for example. Another reason your heat pump may leave a strong odor is the absence of water in the elbow of the pipe that leads to your house drain. This elbow is designed to collect a little water and thus prevent odors from the drain from rising back up the pipe and stinking up your home. Indeed, the water in the elbow acts as a plug, which is renewed as the condenser water flows into it.
A similar odor problem can also be perceived near the air exchange vents, which also have a drainage drain. When in doubt, call one of our advisors so they can come on site and assess the situation. Gestionair has a team of cleaning specialists, who can solve any air conditioning, heating, and air conditioning problem in no time.
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