Ti Mougne
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Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units
10 Replies

I was recently told my new HE HVAC unit has the dreaded dirty sock syndrome.  Never had this problem with the old unit.  My research shows me it is usually tied to heat pumps.  I have a gas furnace.…Continue

Started this discussion. Last reply by Doug Hefernan Oct 11, 2012.

 

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Ti Mougne's discussion was featured

Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units

I was recently told my new HE HVAC unit has the dreaded dirty sock syndrome.  Never had this problem with the old unit.  My research shows me it is usually tied to heat pumps.  I have a gas furnace.  Research shows mixed opinions on solutions: UV lights, treated coils, etc.  I do not want to fork out any more money if it's not going to fix the problem.  I was also advised to run the A/C with the windows open to clear out the smell.  I did this and it did not work (and now I feel guilty for…See More
Oct 12, 2012
Doug Hefernan replied to Ti Mougne's discussion Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units
"There is a cure for Dirty Sock Syndrome.  You may not find long lasting results with chemicals, and UV light may not be effective.  A deposit of an antibacterial must be left on the coil, or it will eventually come back each time the coil…"
Oct 11, 2012
Cameron Taylor replied to Ti Mougne's discussion Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units
"Your mention of the low spot in the flex ducting collecting water (thereby soaking the insulation at some point, most likely) makes me wonder if internal duct lining may contribute to DSS. The OP is puzzled by his DSS in that he's running a gas…"
Feb 3, 2012
Ti Mougne replied to Ti Mougne's discussion Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units
"Thanks Stan. I am still very concerned about the effects on my baby... almost to the point where I don't want to run the A/C until this problem gets resolved.  Seeing how we live in Texas, this could be challenging.   And to answer…"
Feb 3, 2012
Stan Kuhn replied to Ti Mougne's discussion Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units
" I would keep good tabs on effects on your baby as a first priority.  Coils can be cleaned, they don't have to be thrown away when dirty.  Has your heat run since the furnace was installed?  You stated that you ran the…"
Feb 3, 2012
Ti Mougne replied to Ti Mougne's discussion Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units
"No, actually the service tech gave me his diagnosis just by asking me questions.  We have since called the dealer back and they are sending someone else out to further assess the situation.  I will definitely make sure they check the coil…"
Feb 2, 2012
Ti Mougne replied to Ti Mougne's discussion Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units
"Thanks Andrew, but I'm not sure I'm ready to go this route.  It seems like I would have experienced DSS with my previous unit if the problem is in the ducts.  "
Feb 2, 2012
Ti Mougne replied to Ti Mougne's discussion Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units
"Thanks Bob.  Glad to read your thoughts on the low health risks associated with DSS.  "
Feb 2, 2012
Stan Kuhn replied to Ti Mougne's discussion Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units
"Was the AC coil and drip pan checked for mold?  That would be the easiest fix."
Feb 2, 2012
Andrew McDowell replied to Ti Mougne's discussion Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units
"I had a customer who came to me about DSS.  She had been looking for an answer for several years, after trying ultraviolet lights, filters, bleach, etc.  The smell only occurred in the fall, after the cooling season.  I found some…"
Feb 2, 2012
Bob Kretvix replied to Ti Mougne's discussion Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units
"Dirty Sock Syndrome is actually caused by a combination of bacterial "slime" (biofilm) and mold, such as yeasts, that typically grow on the coils of the unit.  The biofilm has been described as being like the slippery, slimy surface…"
Feb 2, 2012
Ti Mougne posted a discussion

Dirty Sock Syndrome in high efficiency HVAC units

I was recently told my new HE HVAC unit has the dreaded dirty sock syndrome.  Never had this problem with the old unit.  My research shows me it is usually tied to heat pumps.  I have a gas furnace.  Research shows mixed opinions on solutions: UV lights, treated coils, etc.  I do not want to fork out any more money if it's not going to fix the problem.  I was also advised to run the A/C with the windows open to clear out the smell.  I did this and it did not work (and now I feel guilty for…See More
Feb 1, 2012
Ti Mougne is now a member of Home Energy Pros
Feb 1, 2012

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Advancing clean, smart energy.
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At 3:52pm on February 1, 2012, Diane Chojnowski said…

Hi Ti,

Welcome to Home Energy Pros! Feel free to join the conversation in the Forum and Groups. And share your energy efficiency photos, videos and upcoming events. If you're blogging about home performance, this is the place for you!


Thanks!
Diane, HEP Moderator

 
 
 

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