When you turn on the air conditioner, the only thing you expect it to produce is cool air. However, it’s not uncommon for customers to call us and ask, “Why is my air conditioner blowing mist?”
As Upper Marlboro’s top-notch AC repair experts, our S&L Air Conditioning and Heating team is here to reassure you that, in most cases, you don’t need to worry about your air conditioner producing mist. Keep reading to learn what causes the issue and when it’s time to call an HVAC technician for help.
The Most Likely Reasons Your Air Conditioner Is Producing Mist in Upper Marlboro
It’s most likely that you’ll ask, “Why is my air conditioner blowing mist?” during periods of high heat and humidity. During the summer, both can soar to oppressive levels in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. The air conditioner will help keep you cool, but when the temperature goes up and humidity levels climb, the interaction between warm and cool air on the evaporator coils can create mist; the more humid the air, the more likely it is that the air conditioner will produce mist.
In most cases, heat and humidity-related mist will only last a minute or two when the air conditioner first kicks on, and there’s no cause for concern. However, if the mist persists, it has an odor, or you’re having other issues at the same time, there’s a problem that requires professional attention.
Refrigerant leaks won’t cause mist. Some people think that they’ll be able to see refrigerant leaking from the air conditioner, but it’s more likely you’ll notice a sweet smell and a bubbling or hissing noise, not mist.
Other Causes of Mist From Upper Marlboro Air Conditioners
Sometimes, air conditioners will blow mist because of a problem within the unit that requires attention. The most common concerns are:
Water Inside the Unit
It’s not unusual to find water inside an air conditioner, as the air cooling process produces condensation. However, excessive amounts of water may be a reason for concern. Drainage issues are one of the most common issues for excess water inside air conditioners, which can turn into mist.
If the unit continues producing mist after a few minutes, you notice frost inside the unit, or it leaks, have an HVAC professional take a look to find the source of the excess water. It’s especially important to get professional help if the mist smells musty or foul, as that’s a sign of mold inside the air conditioner and a more serious problem.
Thermostat Malfunction
Another answer to the question ”Why is my air conditioner blowing mist?” is a thermostat malfunction. In most cases, you’ll notice that the temperature inside your home is lower than the thermostat reading when this happens. This usually means that the thermostat needs recalibration or replacement.
Dirty Air Filter
Add mist formation to the long list of potential issues related to a dirty air filter. A clogged and dirty filter reduces airflow, which makes it harder for the air conditioner to remove moisture from the air. The result is higher humidity levels and, sometimes, mist.
Improperly Sized Air Conditioner
If the air conditioner in your Upper Marlboro home isn’t the right size for the space, it may blow mist. A unit that’s too small will struggle to cool your home, and that extra time means that the moisture and temperature will take longer to regulate, and mist will take longer to dissipate.
On the flip side, if the air conditioner is too large, it will cool off your home too quickly. It won’t have enough time to adequately remove moisture, which increases the risk of mist forming.
Usage Habits
Sometimes, it’s your air conditioner usage patterns that cause the unit to produce mist. Many well-meaning Upper Marlboro homeowners turn off their air conditioners when they leave the house, thinking that doing so will use less energy.
Unfortunately, when you turn off the air conditioner during the day, the heat and humidity build inside your house, which forces the air conditioner to work harder to cool things down when you turn it back on. Not only does this increase your utility bills, but there’s a greater chance that you’ll see mist formation when you switch the system back on.
Preventing Mist From Blowing From Your Air Conditioner
Avoiding the question, “Why is my air conditioner blowing mist?” begins with selecting the right equipment and proper AC installation. Our team at S&L Air Conditioning and Heating can help you select the perfect system for your needs and budget. Call us today to schedule a service in Upper Marlboro, Maryland!