An unpleasant odor from your LG air conditioner is typically caused by moisture and mold buildup on the internal heat exchanger, or a dirty air filter. You can easily resolve this by lowering the temperature below 20℃ (68℉), running Fan mode to dry the inside, and washing the air filter.
Please Note
- Dry the washed air filter completely in a well-ventilated, shaded area. Direct sunlight may deform the filter. Make sure it is completely dry before reinstalling.
Why is there a bad smell coming from my LG Air Conditioner?
During normal cooling operation, moisture condenses on the internal heat exchanger. This is similar to condensation forming on a glass cold of water on a hot summer day. If the heat exchanger remains wet, odors can get trapped or mold can grow. As a result, the air coming out may have a musty smell, similar to a damp towel.
How to remove odors from your LG air conditioner
Step 1. Lower the temperature setting
Set your air conditioner to 20℃ (68℉) or lower. This keeps the heat exchanger cooling continuously, which helps reduce odors.
Step 2. Dry the inside of the unit using Fan mode
After using Cool mode, switch to Fan mode for about 30 minutes before turning off the unit. This will dry any remaining moisture on the heat exchanger and significantly reduce odors.
Step 3. Clean the air filter
A dirty air filter can cause odors. Follow your user manual to remove the filter and wash it thoroughly with water.
Step 4. Schedule a professional cleaning
If the odor persists after following these steps, the internal components may need to be professionally disassembled and cleaned.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q. How often should I clean my LG air conditioner filter?
- A. We recommend cleaning the air filter every two weeks during periods of heavy use in summer to prevent odors and maintain cooling performance.
- Q. Does the Auto Drying (Auto Clean) feature help prevent odors?
- A. Yes. If your LG air conditioner has the Auto Drying feature, keep it turned on. It automatically runs the fan for a set time after you turn off the unit to dry any moisture inside. This helps prevent mold and odors.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, visit the LG Customer Support website for further assistance.
You can explore available support options, such as chat support or a technician visit, depending on your region.
• Service fees may apply for technician visits if the product is out of warranty.
• This guide is based on standard models. Actual settings and menus may vary by model and region.
• This content was partially edited using AI for clarity.
