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Why Does My Furnace Smell?

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Why Does My Furnace Smell?

Posted On: October 31, 2024

Why Does My Furnace Smell?

If your furnace has an unusual smell, it could be caused by a variety of issues. Here’s a breakdown of common furnace smells and what they might mean:


1. Burning Dust Smell

  • Cause: If the furnace hasn’t been used for a while (like at the start of winter), dust will often accumulate on the heating components. When the furnace is turned on, the dust burns off, producing a distinctive smell.
  • Solution: This is usually normal and should go away within a few hours. If it persists, replace or clean the air filter and vacuum around the furnace.

2. Musty or Mildew Smell

  • Cause: Moisture can build up in the ductwork, leading to mold or mildew growth, especially if the furnace hasn’t been used in a while or if there is a humidity problem.
  • Solution: Have a professional inspect and clean your ductwork. Consider using a dehumidifier in your home to control moisture levels.

3. Electrical or Metallic Burning Smell

  • Cause: An electrical or metallic smell can indicate overheating of furnace components, often caused by worn-out parts, faulty wiring, or even a blower motor that is burning out.
  • Solution: Shut off the furnace and call a technician, as electrical issues can be hazardous.

4. Rotten Egg or Sulfur Smell

  • Cause: This smell typically indicates a natural gas leak, as utility companies add a sulfur-like odor to natural gas to make leaks easier to detect.
  • Solution: Turn off the furnace immediately, leave your home, and contact your gas company or emergency services.

5. Oil or Smoky Smell

  • Cause: If you have an oil furnace, a smoky smell could indicate incomplete combustion or an oil leak. It may also happen if the air filter or burner is dirty.
  • Solution: Shut down the furnace and have it inspected, as burning oil or smoke can cause health issues.

6. Chemical Smell

  • Cause: A chemical odor could indicate a cracked heat exchanger, which might allow carbon monoxide to leak into the air.
  • Solution: This is a serious issue. Turn off your furnace, open windows, and have a professional inspect it right away.

Preventive Tips

  • Change air filters regularly (every 1 to 3 months).
  • Schedule an annual furnace tune-up to ensure safe and efficient operation.
  • Check for any obvious blockages or leaks around the unit.

If you’re unsure about the smell or if it persists, calling a professional HVAC technician is the safest option.



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I left a live chat message on their website that my air conditioning was not working. Within 1hr a representative called me to discuss my options.
The next day he came to the house to review my needs and give me a price for a new system. Price quoted was less than I expected and the installation was completed the following day. I found their salesman and the installers very knowledgeable and easy to deal with. All my questions were answered. Everything was properly explained in regards to what unit was needed and why, along with instruction where needed for use.
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This is to thank Twintech Heating and Cooling for their exceptional and timely service. Mitch, their technician was very courteous and generous with his time right from his first meeting with us. He not only took the time to check everything but also educated us on why we needed what he recommended. Greg and Mitch graciously accommodated us on our requested day and time for job to be done. They were both very courteous and responsive to our needs and special requests especially in a tight spot. The job was finished neatly and on time. Thank you Twintech for your great service !

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Our air conditioner failed. Made a call and within 15 min a technician was at our door.
The issue was fixed and many suggestions were provided.
Thanks to Mitch. Great service !

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Our furnace was rattling, as soon as we put our air conditioner on this past week. We had researched looking for a company that was Registered with Better Business Bureau, and this company TwinTech, had A+ Rating. Scott, was immediately helpful via text/phone and sent his technician as soon as he was able...Mitchell/technician provided great professional service. Thank you TwinTech.
Sean and Debbie

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I contacted various companies when looking to install a new furnace and I found Twintech to be transparent with their communication and approach. They had options to suit my various requirements and the price vs quality was very good. The after installation communication was also very good and they answered all queries I had.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

My furnace broke down last month. The team was quick to respond, courteous, professional and mindful of COVID-19 concerns. I highly recommend them if you are considering replacing or servicing your HVAC equipment.

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We are very happy to recommend this company to everyone. Our furnace broke down on Sunday morning. We phoned them and before noon Grant the owner showed up. He worked on the furnace for about a hour not wanting to give up to fix the problem. The furnace was 17 years old. I was the one talking about replacing it. End result was the next day it was all done. On the Sunday Bob came over with heaters to warm up the house. We decided to replace the water heater at the same time. Thanks Grant for the excellent work. Thumbs up.

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Right on time. Explained how to work the HRV in a different way so the house would not be so dry. Changed my whole house water filter for me as well. Friendly, helpful, caring service!

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Very pleased with the professional service that TwinTech Heating and Cooling provided in replacing my furnace. I got several quotes from different service providers. Their price was excellent and they explained the features very well. We are very glad we went with TwinTech and highly recommend their services.

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TwinTech is an excellent and honest company! I called them for a second opinion after being told by another company that I needed to replace my furnace. Turns out this was not the case at all! I did not need a new furnace. TwinTech did not push to make an unnecessary sale and saved me from a huge expense. Bob and Mitch were extremely professional and above all honest! I definitely recommend TwinTech!

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