How do you get rid of mildew smell in window AC,?

Sounds like it may not be draining properly outside . I'd look into that.

You need to kill all the mildew and get rid of mold growing conditions.

I live in the dessert southwest so the answer for me would be to make sure it's draining properly. I would think it's the same everywhere, but I am learning through this forum that every region has its own little gifts.

If mildew is one of yours, maybe you could ask your local extension service how to manage it.

Hope that helps

: )

easy to fix....first get to the water drip pan under the condenser---usually in the attic ....push a stiff wire through the drain hole all the way outside....this removes mold and mud dobber nests....next pour bleach in till it runs outside....do this monthly to keep mold out ---if you have a portable air compressor, insert the hose and blow air through the line to blow out debris.....finally go to the return air vent where the filter goes and hang some air fresheners--like the ones you see hanging in cars....pick the scent you like as your whole house is going to smell like the freshener...I also know some people simply put an open box of mothballs in the return vent

Take the whole thing to the DIY car wash. Take the metal cover off, wash the entire cover and guts of the A/C. Let completely dry in the sun. Done. That's how we've always done it. Learned that from a professional.

I think you could use dryer sheets (like Bounce) at the return instead of car fresheners...smell would be gentler & cheaper.

is this AC or an evaporation cooler? Check filters. If a cooler check and possibly replace filters, add a cup of white vinegar occasionally. Check with Hardware store for commercial mildew/mold/odor killers that are non-toxic. I use white vinegar .