Fed up with frequent AC breakdowns? This smelly culprit could be the reason behind your AC problems
air-conditioner. This is due to the corrosive impact of sewage vapors on the copper components of the appliance. Among electrical devices, air-conditioners are particularly vulnerable due to their higher copper content.
Explaining the science behind this issue, retired IIT Madras chemical engineering professor T Swaminathan pointed out that stagnant sewage releases hydrogen sulphide gas, responsible for its characteristic foul odor.
This gas is known for its distinct rotten egg smell and is produced by the decomposition of organic matter in sewage. Hydrogen sulfide can react with moisture in the air to form sulfuric acid or other sulfur compounds. Over time, this gas reacts with the copper parts within the air-conditioner, resulting in corrosion and gas leaks.
Interestingly, the reason air-conditioners are affected more than other appliances like televisions is their higher copper composition.
Dr. Swaminathan told TOI that air-conditioners contain more copper components, making them more susceptible to damage from these corrosive fumes.
Air-conditioners contain copper components, including copper coils, tubing, and other parts. Copper is commonly used in ACs because of its excellent heat conductivity.
However, copper is also prone to corrosion, especially when exposed to acidic substances like sulfuric acid. When the sulfuric acid in the sewage gas comes into contact with the copper parts of the AC, it triggers a chemical reaction that corrodes the copper. This corrosion weakens the structural integrity of the copper components, leading to gas leaks and reduced efficiency of the AC unit.
Moreover, the impact of sewage load on pumping stations exacerbates the problem.
