Why do I have decomposing insects in my new air conditioner?

Question

In April I bought a new window a/c from Sears. Today there is a foul odor coming from it and there are piles of decomposing bugs inside. I have had an a/c in that same window for more than 40 years with never any problems. I hope that someone out there can explain why this occurred this time. What is wrong here?

Answer 1

There was probably bugs in the a/c when you got it. If not they could be attracted to the scent of the freon, until it wears off. It shouldn't take too long to wear off.

Answer 2

An air conditioner takes in air from it's surroundings. Since air is humid sometimes, it may produce water (?), thus attracting insects (??).

Answer 3

First, they may be imports.  Clean them out and see if they come back.  They could have entered the unit anywhere from manufacture to your window.  Second yes, they are attracted by water.  Perhaps your old unit was better sealed from the outside than this one.  You could try to complain to sears and see if they will do something under warranty. Otherwise try to find how they get inside.  Duct tape, calking or whatever.