Do you smell a mold or mildew-type odor when you turn on your heating or air conditioning system? Does it smell like someone left gym socks in your vent? Your HVAC system is likely suffering from what is known as “Dirty Sock Syndrome.” While many Ohio homeowners suffer from dirty sock syndrome in their HVAC system, not many know about the potential health dangers it can cause. 

What is Dirty Sock Syndrome?

When you turn on your heat or air conditioning, the last thing you want is to fill your home with foul-smelling air. If your air conditioning system puts out an odor reminiscent of dirty socks, you likely have bacteria inhabiting your evaporator coil in your AC system. When you turn your system on, you are distributing dirty air throughout your home and could be compromising your family’s health.

Is Dirty Sock Syndrome Dangerous?

The short answer is: yes, it can be. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), molds can be mildly toxic to humans. Dirty sock syndrome can cause sneezing and coughing and can be dangerous for people who suffer from allergies, a compromised immune system or asthma. Poor air quality can impact the health of people with compromised immunity, infants, seniors and pets. Poor indoor air quality can negatively impact anyone who suffers from pre-existing health conditions. Even if it doesn’t cause anyone health problems in the home, most people don’t appreciate the unpleasant smell.  

How Can I Prevent Dirty Sock Syndrome?

The good news is that it’s relatively easy to get rid of that nasty smell. Change your system’s air filter often and make sure to use a high-quality air filter to prevent the buildup of mold, mildew and bacteria. Ask your Grove City HVAC technician about installing a UV light system to combat bacteria, mold and spores. Schedule a system maintenance appointment to clean and tune up your system and ask that they make sure to clean your coils. Invest in an air cleaner that removes pollen, pollutants, bacteria and mold as small as .01 microns. Keeping your system free of mold and mildew is the best solution.

At Guaranteed Services, we want your Columbus area home to be cool, comfortable and safe. We know that your family’s health is important to you, which is why we provide quality HVAC services that keep your air conditioning system free from mold, bacteria and spores that lead to dirty sock syndrome. Contact us today and speak with one of our trained professionals who can help you improve your indoor air quality and make your home healthier!