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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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They came the day and time they had planned for us and were very fast and efficient! The AC works amazing and it is amazing during the heat of the summer we have already got! Thanks for everything you did for us!

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Would recommend this company to friends and family in a heartbeat. Very professional , on time and left no mess when the job was done.

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Great customer service. Responsive and professional. I would highly recommend Twintech, I used them previously for repair service and a new air conditioner- very satisfied.

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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

by ANOOP on Twintech Heating and Cooling

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.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I was very happy with the installation and price. I would definitely recommend. Thank you Twintech.

by Dorothy on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Had furnace and air conditioning unit put in. They did an excellent job great price and everything clean as can be, I was very pleased

by Barry on Twintech Heating and Cooling

All winter I have had an issue with very little heat reaching the 2nd floor of our home. After this past winter ended I decided to look into this. I found Twintech Heating and Cooling on line and started the process. After explaining my problem I had a call form Twintech and the tech came out and walked through things with me. The problem was the heating vent pipe had been dropped down in size by someone years ago causing little heat reaching the 2nd floor. Further into checking out the older furnace and AC they found a few things not properly installed by the last install of the old furnace and also that the AC was on it's last legs. I asked for a quote and waited a few days and we decided to go ahead with Twintech. They called a few days before to set up an installation time and date. The day of the install the guys were a half hour early which was a plus. The day of the install was great, the guys worked away removing the old furnace and AC.After which they installed the new furnace and AC. After they cleaned up the basement with all their tools and scrap metal etc. they came back inside to walk thru what they did. They also tested both the furnace and cooling systems to make sure everything worked and I the customer was happy. I now have heat on the 2nd floor for next winter. The guys from Twin tech were very professional. Their work habits and knowledge of the job was excellent. Their workmanship was just excellent, it was just up there with my standards as a homeowner. I am very pleased to have chosen Twintech for my new furnace and AC.. If I had to rate this experience with Twintech this company is a 10 in my books.Product,workmanship and customer care says it all.

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by Robert Rogers on Twintech Heating and Cooling

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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We were new homeowners in need of a second opinion. TwinTech Heating & Cooling were Amazing and professional. Very knowledgeable and great service all around. Recommend to anyone looking for honest and reliable services. Treated with respect and care. Thank you Greg, Mitch and Bob!

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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!

by Anna Chin on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Amazing experience with TwinTech Heating & Cooling! Their team was professional, knowledgeable, and efficient from start to finish. They installed my new furnace quickly and left everything spotless. The technicians took the time to explain everything and made sure I was comfortable with the system before they left. Great customer service and fair pricing. I highly recommend them for anyone needing HVAC services!

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