AC unit smells moldy

[Lpetrella]

My 2006 Dometic ac unit has a mildewy smell every time it starts up. I have cleaned out the outside coils and changed the filter on the inside but it still smells. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[keymastr]

Try using this coil cleaner on the condensor.  It is available at the big box home stores and will clean the mold off the fins. When the unit runs it gets frost on the fins and if the coils stay wet long enough then they can mildew. I try to remember to run mine for a few minutes on the "fan" setting at the end of long periods to dry it out.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/14-oz-Condenser-Coil-Cleaner-WCOIL/100351663

 

[8Muddypaws]

Try using this coil cleaner on the condensor.  It is available at the big box home stores and will clean the mold off the fins. When the unit runs it gets frost on the fins and if the coils stay wet long enough then they can mildew. I try to remember to run mine for a few minutes on the "fan" setting at the end of long periods to dry it out.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/14-oz-Condenser-Coil-Cleaner-WCOIL/100351663

Good advice. 

You might also have mold growing in the roof if the drain line is clogged.

 

[ns09]

I believe the above is on the right track, except the condenser coil is the outdoor coil (probably not producing the indoor smell), which needs to be clean to operate efficiently and the indoor coil is called the evaporator coil which may be where the mildew is happening. Probably would be a good idea to clean both coils. Just be sure the coil cleaner used is either safe to be used on aluminum fins (non acid), or at least you can be sure it is rinsed well shortly after use, otherwise it may eat away at the aluminum fins. I would think you should be able to follow the instructions on the product you purchase. I have seen some cleaners advertised as evaporator coil cleaner, which supposedly you could just spray on, then depend upon the condensate to wash it away.

 

[Lpetrella]

I've used the spray from The Big Box Company on the outside thin / coils. Where can I find the evaporator coils on the inside? When I take down the door there is a motor right in front.

 

[ns09]

what do you see when you take out the air filter? You may be looking at it, but not sure if it all will be exposed to sight. If it is really dirty, as if someone has not taken care of filter properly, you may have to remove the cabinet. I am not familiar with these style units. Also, it might need the squirrel cage blower wheel cleaned. It does not take a very thick layer of lint stuck to the fins to lower the air flow a lot.