[HOUTECH40]

Hvacservicetech_07, this one is up your ally.
I have a 6month old 5ton Carrier brand new unit, when running the heating system during the winter all was fine. We switch it to A/C and right away an odd smell permeates from every vent. It smells like a wet dog, or a kid that had been out side playing a while. Its not a dead animal, I know that smell from a couple rats that made it into my attic some time ago. Its not that. I did replace the filters upstairs and down. Only thing I thought it was related to could be the cement or puddy the guy put around one of the air ducts. Yet, it’s been a while; any fumes would have dissipated a while ago.
Any thoughts?

Much Thanks, Dan.

[hvac1000]

You have dirty sock syndrome. Carrier and others have problems with that. Various bacteria etc attach themselves to the coil. Do a Google search for Dirty Sock smell or syndrome and you will see many posts and answers for this problem.

What is the “Dirty Sock Syndrome?”

Musty Smell Dirty Sock Syndrome - HVAC-Talk: Heating, Air & Refrigeration Discussion

Dirty Sock Syndrome

ETC

[HOUTECH40]

Another added question, if the issue is related to smell sock synd. Would this be covered under warranty or is it the installers fault? Or will this issue drain my wallet?
Thanks

[hvac1000]

At 6 months old it would be an argument point I would bring up if necessary and I would also take my complaint to the Carrier Corporation IF necessary. See what the original contractor says and give some time to correct But not 6 months more. I feel that the original installer could just clean the coil and say it is OK now but if you have read up on this enough you will see that is not the real cure. Cleaning then spraying with a special coating works much better than just washing it off. This is a subject that you will find much information on Google about. Many folks say they have a cure but I am always concerned the cure might just work for there situation since there are many different types of bacteria and mold that can cause this problem. I would not put up with the situation long term. Good luck with your endeavors.

Note: Remember that the bacteria/mold did not come on the coil when new. It came from within your home or duct system. The bacteria/mold is your problem since it came from your system or home BUT the manufacturer failed to take this into consideration in the construction of the coil. Since almost all homes have bacteria/mold and since these items are attracted to the moist surfaces of the coil you would think that the manufactures would have anticipated this situation more than what they do.

In your dealings always remember a spoon full of sugar will always get you better service than a pound of salt especially under these circumstances.